In October 1923 the local board in Fish Hoek passed the plans for a café, Santoy Tea Rooms, on the corner of Main and Recreation roads, according to Fish Hoek Looking Back, by Joy Cobern. It was taken over in 1925 by a new owner who changed the name to The Green Parrot Tea Room, pictured, and she brought her parrot, Polly, with her. When Main Road was rebuilt in the 1940s, it was discovered that the tea room was built on public land, and a part of the tea room’s stoep had to be removed to make room for a sidewalk. The business changed hands several times, but the parrot remained. The building was demolished in 1964 and replaced with the present building, also called The Green Parrot.
Image: Fish Hoek Valley Museum
Far South residents can look forward to a trip down memory lane with a talk about the Green Parrot, a well-remembered landmark in the heart of Fish Hoek.
The talk, The Story of the Green Parrot: A Memorable Fish Hoek Landmark, will be hosted by the Fish Hoek Valley Historical Association at the Fish Hoek library side hall on Thursday May 8.
The talk will start at 5.30pm, with doors opening at 5pm.
The speaker, Ursolino "Ossie" Gonsalves, is the nephew of the late Tony Correia, who owned and ran the well-known Green Parrot tearoom.
The current Green Parrot building on the corners of Main and Recreation roads. The building is currently home to The Emma Animal Rescue Society (TEARS) Charity Shop and other businesses.
Image: Yolande Du Preez
Mr Gonsalves has lived in Fish Hoek since 1965 and considers the Green Parrot his second home during his younger years.
He is a registered land surveyor and previously worked as district manager of development management for the southern district at the City of Cape Town. He also served on the municipal planning tribunal.
Since retiring, Mr Gonsalves has remained active in the community as a member of the executive committee of the Fish Hoek Valley Ratepayers' and Residents' Association and the Fish Hoek Future committee.
The talk will explore the history of the Green Parrot, a once-iconic tearoom in Fish Hoek that holds many memories for both residents and visitors.
Known for its talking parrot, friendly service, and as a place to enjoy tea, ice cream, or spend pocket money, the venue became a beloved local landmark.
Mr Gonsalves will reflect on the early years of the tearoom before 1960, share insights into Mr Correia’s family background, and outline notable milestones after 1960. Attendees can also expect to hear stories about the many people who visited the Green Parrot over the years.
Entry for members is R20 at the door, while visitors will pay R30. All payments are to be made in cash.
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