Spring has sprung, and sweet things are happening at The Hatter's

Alice in Wonderland's grinning Cheshire Cat might think that they're "all mad here", but ironically it's "down the rabbit hole" to The Hatter's Tea Garden and Nursery you go to escape the craziness of the world. Only this rabbit hole happens to lead to a quaint and comfortable garden café that seems a world away with its peaceful garden surroundings and cosy home-away-from-home feel.

All the wackiness of Wonderland
Easy to access from the Village Market Shopping Centre off Jan Hofmeyer Road in Westville, The Hatter's Tea Garden and Nursery is a homage to all the wackiness of Wonderland. The Mad Hatter's top hats serve as lamp shades, while chairs, clocks and tea sets tumble down the wall in a delightful disarray. It is packed full of charm and whimsy, creating a welcome respite from the hurly-burly of our busy lives. You have your pick of seating either inside, or out in the nursery garden. Whichever you choose, you'll find the setting enchanting.

Cakes, bakes and fruity shakes
It's not just a feast for the eyes. The menu is all kinds of tasty too. The fare is homebaked, wholesome and utterly delicious. The usual offerings include homemade toasties, quiches, smoothies and, of course, the Hatter's signature range of cakes baked daily from their on-site kitchen. The carrot cake is out of this world!

Host in unforgettable style
With its unique atmosphere and décor, the Hatter's Tea Garden is also a Pinterest-worthy backdrop for intimate catered events like baby showers, birthday parties (or "very merry unbirthday parties"!) and kitchen teas. The Hatter's serves a range of platters and finger foods while you relax and chatter away with your friends and family - celebrating special occasions in unforgettable style.

From the Hatter's shelves
If you can't bear to part this Wonderland without taking a bit of the magic with you, the Hatter's also offers homebaked novelty cakes to order. Cakes aren't the only toothsome treats to be had. From the Hatter's shelves, you can stock up on cookies, rusks and sweet squares fresh from their kitchen, as well as raw honey and a few chilly sauces. The range is constantly expanding, so keep your eyes peeled for tasty new additions.

Personal service and homey comfort
And who's behind all this magic? The Hatter's Tea Garden was revived from its sad covid lockdown demise by determined mother and daughter duo - Suzanne and Samantha Fourie. Under their care, the cafè (previously known as the Barn Owl) has been re-invented as The Hatter's Tea Garden and Nursery and is flourishing once again. Suzanne and Samantha, originally from Mtunzini, brought with them 13 years of baking experience, a sense of adventure and a willingness to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in and, in Suzanne's words, "literally pick up the pieces". This perseverance and imagination have seen them create a peaceful retreat that offers personal service and homey comfort that is as big a temptation as the food they serve.

Celebrate the start of Spring
With winter holding the door and spring bouncing across the threshold, now is one of the best times to take a tumble down the rabbit hole for a visit to The Hatter's. Spring is a traditional time of renewal and growth. This theme ties in beautifully with Hatter's revival story. And with warming temperatures and blooming flowers, The Hatter's Tea Garden is the place to be.

In celebration of spring's arrival, the Hatter's is offering a Spring Special. Pop around on any Friday for the month of September, and you can enjoy a cuppa coffee and a cupcake for R45. It's the perfect way to cheer in the season - and enjoying it with friends will only make the treat so much sweeter.