Reynolds Tea Room, Annapolis, MD

Visited: October, 2007.  Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Good.  Appearance: Average.
Comments: We visited the tea room for lunch and had a reservation. The room is colonial in style and is more tavern than tea room. The decor is simple and not specific to tea but is practical, clean and comfortable. The menu is varied and the food was excellent. I had the afternoon tea and my companion had an entree salad and pot of tea. The tea sandwiches are flavorful and attractive and our server named each when he presented them. The pastries were plentiful and delicious. The tea was excellent and served in a stoneare pot that was quite heavy, hot and a little awkward to pour. Be sure to use your napkin when holding the pot handle to avoid being burned. There were many varieties of tea to choose and they also serve flowering tea. There is a small shop on premesis.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: rosemarylcswc  1/08  Add your review   

Visited: November, 2007.  Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This was my 3rd visit in 3 years and the 1st for my husband. Whether a full afternoon tea or cream tea it is continually the BEST and I've visited dozens across the country and some in other countries. Sandwiches full of filling and flavor, savory tarts are deliciously unique and the sweets are always outstanding. Service is impecable in the 1790 building. Don't miss this!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Sue Lynne  11/7  Add your review   

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: March, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: MY sister was here visitng from Boston Mass. We decied to try something different. To our surprise we had a grand time. We both had crab cake which was out of this world. We enjoyed a pot of cupids arrow tea, seeing how it was close to valentines day. We also bought a package of tea to enjoy when we got home. Nicole was our host and she was so sweet. We will remember our time together there forever. We will return for another visit. Thank you for making two sisters Happy.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Debbie & Peggy Add your review   

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: March, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I took my mom for her birthday to the tea room along with my 13 year old son. Tha atmosphere was wonderful as well as the service. My son enjoyed the little finger sandwiches and little cakes that were served on a three layer tray as well as the diffrent teas. The three of us had diffrent teas and he tasted all. He loved the diffrent tastes of the teas. The staff made us feel so special. That made it so much nicer for my mom on her birthday. I think I made a wonderful choice in going to the Reynolds tea room.I look forward to going again very soon.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Rebecamp Add your review   

Visited: March, 2005.  Reviewed: March, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Reynolds has moved to the top of my list. The tea selection is expansive with interesting choices. Brewed in a thick (keeps it warm!) tea pot with a strainer that allows you to remove the tea when finished brewing. You set it on the underplate and it is whisked away by the server. The scones are nice sized. The savories included a mushroom tart - fabulous; mini Shepherd's pie - fabulous; ham, cucumber and egg salad sandwiches - lovely except egg salad which was ordinary. The sweets were abundant including carrot cake - not my favorite; lemon square - delicious; rasberry square - delicious; shortbread - delicious; a chocolate covered strawberry - juicy and delicious. A pleasant setting. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: The Sisters Who Take Tea Add your review   

Visited: August, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The atmosphere was very pleasant and very suitable location. Tea chosen was Earl Grey superior mixture that went well with the various tea sandwiches, pastries, and raisin scones. Service was excellent even though it was a busy time (1.30 to 4pm). Highly recommend room for a pleasant, casual experience but in the spirit of "taking tea."
Reviewer: cindy Add your review   

Visited: April, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This is a beautiful tearoom in a Colonial setting. My only complaint is there was no place to put the infuser when my tea was finished brewing! All the food was exquisite, especially the sweets. I would rate them a 10.
Reviewer: Patsy Add your review   

Visited: February, 2004.  Reviewed: May, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The sandwiches, sweets, selection of tea, and, especially, the scones were wonderful. This is a lovely establishment and it is obvious the owners take pride in all they do.
Reviewer: Bobbie Add your review  

Brighton's at Harbor Court Hotel, Baltimore, MD

Visited: November, 2004.  Reviewed: November, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The best part about Brighton's afternoon tea is the service, ambiance, and complimentary valet parking (a rare gem in the city). The tea was average and left to steep in the pot making it bitter -- but I'm sure that, if asked, would be replaced, as the servers were quite attentive. The scones were served warm with a soft center and delightfully crisp crust of sugar crystals. Along with the Devonshire cream and preserves, they were my favorite part. Unlike other tea services I've been to, the sandwiches are not abundantly served on a three tiered platter. Instead, you are served four of the smallest tea sandwiches I've, so far, come across. However small, they were, indeed, good. The sandwiches were followed by assorted sweets which were equally good. To my surprise, I walked out incredibly full and ready for a nap. It's definitely a lovely place for tea and would be especially nice for more formal occasions.
Reviewer: A Baltimore Lindy Circle Add your review   

Petticoat Tea Room, Baltimore, MD

Visited: January, 2008.   Meal: Private children's party. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Average.  Food: Good. Service: Poor.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Booked a tea party early 1/08 for end of month, with a signed contract, paid reservation fee of $75 inadvance. Management failed to reserve room and booked other parties at same day and time. Uncomfortable interaction with management for resolution. Day of party ... insufficient areas for coats, inexperienced waitress resulted in poor service for both  children and moms. Cashier less than friendly.
good points:
1. decor great for children
2. food was good
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: janet 1/08 Add your review     

Visited: March, 2004.  Reviewed: April, 2004.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Fair. Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: The quiche we ordered for lunch was very good and the fruit was good and ripe. The garden salad was ordinary and our tea sandwiches were okay, but not much filling and only one thin slice of cucumber for a triangle slice of bread which equaled a half, not quarter, of bread. Our server was nice enough but she was not dressed professionally for the type of dining area that we were in. She was dressed in a pair of very casual green pants and a tee shirt with a plain work apron over her clothes. Although I did see a stereo system, there wasn't any music playing at all. They also do not use tea cozies so our tea quickly became cold before we were done eating. The room was lovely and the chairs were comfortable.
Reviewer: Delores Add your review     

Visited: November, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: The Petticoat Tea Room, conveniently located in Fells Point, is definitely worth visiting. During our visit, we started with a couple of scones served with clotted cream and raspberry preserves. I wanted to devour more but knew I had to save room for what was to come. There was a wide selection of teas to choose from and, of the three we chose, they were all delightful. Among them was an Earl Grey, Cinnamon, and Peaches and Pears. The food was plentiful and delicious. Although we were outnumbered by men, we were still unable to eat everything from the three-tiered platter. On it, we were served cookie-cutter shaped finger sandwiches, fresh fruit, and various deserts. My favorite was the egg salad sandwich dusted with curry spices, but my friends will swear by the tomato tea sandwich. 
My only complaint was that everyone but our server was warm and friendly. Unfortunately, our server seemed to be a little on the impatient side. She seemed to be a little annoyed and made a quip about our two-hour plus stay. Other than that, the experience was very pleasant and I would definitely visit again.
Reviewer: A Baltimore Lindy Circle Add your review  

Thir-Tea First Street Café and Tea Room, Baltimore, MD

Visited: February, 2006.  Reviewed: February, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My daughter and I enjoyed afternoon tea and were pleasantly surprised. This tea room is quite different from any we've seen in the US, and very pleasant. We arrived without reservations at about 11 am, and we were fortunate they were able to accommodate us; reservations are suggested and often necessary. Our server first gave us a tour of the house with its history, pointing out photographs of the home at different time periods and a photo of the owner's aunt, the inspiration behind the tea room. We had a "three course tea" that included a pot of tea for each of us (I had Chai Spice and my daughter had a decaf Raspberry; both were wonderful) served in delightful teapots with cup strainers and a resting bowl for the strainer in between pours. I *loved* that, as it's how we enjoy our tea at home but rarely how we're served when out. First course included 4 generous-sized, feather-light scones (2 types: berry and lemon zest) and 4 melt-in-your-mouth biscuits (2 kinds: cheese and sweet potato) served on a two-tier glass serving dish, five types of jam, crème fraîche, and double Devon clotted cream. We didn't complete the scones for fear of not being able to finish the other 2 courses, and our server graciously packed our treats up for us to have later at home. Course two was a lovely beaded raised cake plate containing many finger sandwiches, with 2 each of asparagus and artichoke in puff pastry; hearts of tomato with seasoned mayo on heart-shaped bread with a single little teeny asparagus on each; and open-faced chicken salad on little triangles; plus four "soldiers" of bread with sliced cucumber. Each one was excellent, and the presentation was very nice. Our server repeatedly offered to warm our tea; she was consistently kind and professional. At first we felt a bit awkward, being the only customers in the whole house, but that soon faded with her friendly conversation. We had to leave sooner than planned (we'd had a stressful morning and my daughter was developing a wicked headache), but our server packed up our brownie desserts with our scones and biscuits for us to take home. (Report from the headachey daughter: the brownies "incredibly rich, just incredible.") We look forward to returning; the proximity of this tea room to Hopkins Homewood campus makes it even more appealing. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: ElisaC  Add your review  

Visited: June, 2005.  Reviewed: June, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My friend took me to Thir-tea First Street Cafe and Tea Room for my birthday. We had a private room and three helium filled balloons awaited my arrival. We lived in England for nine years previously and I can say without doubt that the scones that were served were amongst the best I've had in the U.K. and outside of it. The selection of tea was excellent as were the finger sandwiches and dessert. There was a great attention to detail and I would unequivocally recommend this tea room to anyone.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Pearl  Add your review   

Visited: September, 2004.  Reviewed: September, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My friend Laura and I went for high [sic] tea and we found it to be the best that we've tried so far. The host brought out a serving tray with five different kinds of scones for each of us, along with a good assortment of jams, lemon curd, and Devon cream. They were excellent. The next course was an outstanding seafood soup. The salad was even enjoyable, considering I'm not a salad person. Then came the three tier sandwich tray with shrimp, salmon, chicken salad, egg salad, tomato, and at least one other that I can't recall. Then a sorbet. And the final course was a chocolate bread pudding. I would not hesitate to go back again.
Reviewer: Jim V.  Add your review   

Visited: August, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This was my second visit to the tea room. It was the first for my five friends. We are all Red Hatters and have enjoyed teas at many establishments in Maryland, Virginia,  D.C., and Pennsylvania. This tea room is by far one of the best.  There were 25 tea choices offered. The teas were brewed perfectly. The scones were of varied flavors and more than we could consume. They included sweet potato, raisin and cranberry, and lemon zest. Devon cream, crème frâiche, lemon curd,  and assorted fruit preserves accompanied the scones. The sandwiches were a delightful variety including cucumber, tomato, salmon, cheeses, and chicken salad in pastry. The bread sandwiches were cut into various shapes of teacups, teapots, etc. After scones and sandwiches we were served lemon sorbet. Dessert was a delightful walnut blonde brownie with berries and whipped cream. The décor of the first and second floors of the tea house is very Victorian. There is rich wallpaper on the walls and the ceilings. The windows have some small squares of stained glass. Various teapots are displayed in the first floor dining area. Lovely tea hats, gloves, boas, jewelry, and other items are decoratively placed in the upstairs tea room. The restroom is also very Victorian in décor. The exterior of the house is Victorian and does need some fresh paint and some repair, but this is a minor flaw that the owner will be fixing. There is a very cute teapot-shaped sidewalk sign in front the house.  The owner and her staff are very gracious and served us well. There are three levels of tea offered. I would recommend The Thir-tea First Cafe and Tea Room to anyone and everyone.
Reviewer: Roni C. of Crofton, MD.  Add your review   

Visited: March, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Fair. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Poor.
Comments: This place was VERY different than ANY tea room I have EVER been to! I guess the building used to be an old home built in the 1800s. And it hasn't changed much. VERY DARK. The café part was on the first floor and the tea room was in one of the bedrooms upstairs, secluded from everything else. My guest and I arrived at 2pm for high [sic] tea. Everything was made fresh on the spot. The linens and china were pretty tacky. First course was scones and biscuits. They were excellent. Next was a salad. It was okay. Then a soup. HORRIBLE. I was wondering who did the taste tests? Then the sandwiches. Who makes pickled cucumber sandwiches? All of them were pretty bad. Then a sorbet, THEN dessert. A brownie. I was HUGELY disappointed after reading the first review on this place. Most of all I can't believe it took us three hours to have high [sic] tea, which was actually more of a long drawn out afternoon tea. And be aware this place is not in a good area.
Note from The Guide: Afternoon tea is the meal served in mid to late afternoon, consisting of light "snack" foods -- finger sandwiches, scones, pastries -- and accompanied by tea. Service is often elegant, with the best china, silver, and decorations. High tea is an evening meal, served after 6pm and usually later, and is a much heavier, full meal, as often accompanied by ale as by a cup of tea. High tea is the equivalent of our dinner or supper; it's a homier meal served with regular china and flatware -- very *un*fancy. "High" does not denote "elegant" -- it refers to the height of the table where the meal is served! (Afternoon tea is often referred to as "low tea." :-)
Reviewer: ChrisTEAna  Add your review      

Visited: October, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: Our tea group had a delightful Sunday tea. Our waiter, Brian, was very attentive and so nice. The first course of scones and biscuits had us wondering if we could eat more. There were five different selections, all fresh and warm. The tea sandwiches and desserts were wonderful as well. The owner presented our guest of honor with a lovely tea cup flower arrangement.
Reviewer: Patsy  Add your review    

Tea By Two, Bel Air, MD

Visited: October, 2005.  Reviewed: November, 2005
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good.  Service: Fair.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I agree with the reviewer that said "snobby." I feel like I have to thank the owners for allowing me to be present. Requests for tables are absolutely ignored. It reminds me of every restanurant that seats customers next to each other for the wait staff's convenience. Miniscule amounts of clotted cream and lemon curd are offered and having more than two kinds of tea if the group is greater than four people is  discouraged. I go because it's close and because it's the only game in town. Food portions are also miniature -- really tasty food but pricey. I do LOVE the gift shop. 
Would you go back? Maybe. 
Reviewer: Karin K. Add your review  

Visited: May, 2005.  Reviewed: August, 2005
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Fair.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: This place has a "snobby" air that I really didn't care for. The food was just ok. We were a large group and yet several people left feeling hungry. I had been there with a friend once before and I wanted to sit in a particular place. I was told that I had to sit elsewhere. Yet, they weren't particularly busy. While I realize this is just tea, for the money they charged a little more food would have been nice. 
Would you go back? Sorry, no. 
Reviewer: playitsam Add your review     

Retro Tea & Gifts, Bowie, MD

Visited: May, 2006.  Reviewed: May, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good.  Service: Fair.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: We had a party of 8 and were the only party there. We did not get seated for 45 minutes after our reservation due to a lingering baby shower, although the staff did offer to seat us in a smaller area. We decided to wait for the larger, nicer room and at least we had the neat antigue shop to look around in to occupy our time. The service was slow and we had to make multiple requests for things such as water (which we never did get), cream, etc. I was surprised given that we were the only ones there. The food was good with the scones being the best...nice and warm! There was a large variey of tea and the room was fun with vintage hats available for the guests to wear. My 6 year old  daughter and two older neices had a fun time and were offered tuna or PBJ sandwiches in place of the cucumber sandwiches (which were good). The price was considerably lower than other teas I had attended ($11.75 pp). Perhaps this was an off-day for the staff (I hope). 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Imagoon Add your review   

Visited: November, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: 1. Retro Tea and Gifts is located in an antique shop. Cool.
2. You can choose a hat for tea. Fun.
3. Choose a table. 50s era, Asian motif, Victorian tea rose.
4. Afternoon tea. Cucumber sandwiches on wheat or white (shaped like circles). Cute
5. Scones with raisins. Choice of lemon curd (yum) or EXTRA CREAMY Devonshire cream (yum yum).
6. Assorted cookies from nearby bakery. Mini fruit tart, chocolate covered cookies, meringue cookies, McVitties digestive biscuits. Fresh and flavorful.
7. Many teas to choose. Exotic to fruity.
8. Service. Knowledgeable and attentive.
Overall, my mother and I had a wonderful tea at Retro Tea and Gifts.
Reviewer: Michelle Add your review   

Visited: May, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: Despite the mixed reviews here, my husband and I decided to try it out. We arrived at noon on a Saturday. We had made reservations but they were not needed, as we were the only ones there. Being the only ones there, the service was excellent. The choices of tea were enormous. My husband had the honeysuckle white tea and I went with the peach apricot. Afternoon tea started out with finger sandwiches -- the curried shrimp was the best. The scones were good, but I would have preferred them to be a little fresher. Fruit tart was amazing -- absolutely delicious. I was a little surprised to still see the Girl Scout cookies (as mentioned in another review), but when I learned that they were to support a local troop I thought that was nice. Overall, we enjoyed our experience. The tea room would be a little crowded with other patrons since it is in the basement of an antique store, but it was decorated with lots of whimsy. We plan to go back.
Reviewer: Barefoot in Maryland Add your review   

Visited: July, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose and bagged. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: The tea area of the antique shop is delightful. The owner brews excellent tea and will brew a new pot if the customer is not satisfied. The price is appropriate for what is served. I would like to see more tea sandwiches of more variety. The fruit tarts and cookies are made by a local baker and are excellent. There are Victorian hats and many tea products for sale as well as antique items in the tea area. 
Reviewer: Frequent customer Add your review   

Visited: March, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose and bagged. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Fair.  Service: Fair.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: Tea was served in a teapot and had good flavor; however, as no strainer was offered nor required, it was probably prepared from tea bags rather than loose tea. The food included some tasty items, such as the chicken Dijonnaise and cucumber sandwiches as well as mini fruit tarts. On the other hand, finding Girl Scout cookies among the sweets selection was a bit of a shock. Aside from the sandwiches, none of the food items appeared to be homemade. It should be noted, however, that the cost of the high [sic] tea was much lower than other places. The atmosphere was a mixed bag: we felt a little rushed as the tea room hit closing time, but the variously themed place settings were striking and the room was full of neat little tea-related items and -- the highlight -- a great display of vintage hats all adorned with ribbons, flowers, and veiling. Overall, this was not the ultimate tea experience, but it was a nice place to get together with friends.
Reviewer: Dee Add your review   

Visited: January, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Service can be uneven at this small tea room, and its location (in the basement of a small antique shop) may not sound very inviting. However, the shop meets its challenges well. A sizeable menu of teas (loose and bagged, both) includes several specialty teas assembled by local teachers. If you choose one of these the respective teacher's class gets a portion of the profits. Tea is served in a pot, nicely brewed. Depending on how busy the shop is, your service will be very attentive, or less-so. A cream tea, a high [sic] tea, as well as some à la carte sandwiches and biscuit choices round out the menu. Music is soft classical, although not live, and the tea room is a quiet but intimate space. Special events here include Senior Fridays, anniversary celebrations in February, etiquette classes for young ladies that include high [sic] tea, and occasional bonnet sales. Don't forget to try on one of the cloud-like ladies' hats during your visit for tea. Tea cozies, infusers, pots and other tea paraphernalia are always available for sale as are many of the teas and biscuits that the shop serves.
Reviewer: Linda Add your review 

Beans in the Belfry, Brunswick, MD

Visited: January, 2006.  Reviewed: January, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments:  Hanna was a great hostess. We had a group of nine women for a birthday tea (and one child). The atmosphere was inviting and fun. The food was excellent with several sandwiches, warm scones and dessert. The serving was plentiful. Tea was steeped to perfecion with several varieties. It was a wonderful time. I know I will go back for tea or lunch.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Sharon-Red Glove Tea Sister   Add your review   

Kettledrum Tea Room, Chestertown, MD

Visited: August, 2004.  Reviewed: September, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Good. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Overall the experience was delightful. The food truly was wonderful, there were simple courteousy that were less than desirable. We arrived early and inquired into seating earlier. The answer, after verifying with the chef, was that we'd made reservations and that we'd have to wait until then. The general response was fine but the delivery was a bit bitter. When we arrived back, on time, we were quickly seated and surprised that they'd run out of a couple items that we'd been told were part of the meal. We'd been served the wrong tea, which actually turned out to be a blessing for me. And, although I'd requested and was assured when I'd made the reservation, they offered no special accommodations for my friend's birthday celebration. The town was nice and the tea room was mostly pleasant, tainted only a touch by the couple of incidents and a server that seemed to run hot and cold on us.
Reviewer: lisasjnk Add your review   

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: May, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Afternoon tea at the Kettledrum was a delightful beginning to a weekend visit to Chestertown. The tea-themed ambiance was very attractive without being fussy. Choose from an extensive selection of teas that are served in unique individual teapots with the proper accoutrements for straining the leaves. Bring your appetite for the afternoon tea. Although I usually prefer traditional teas, I thoroughly enjoyed the eclectic selection of savories that included a stuffed mushroom, a tasty filled artichoke, and a tiny quiche, in addition to traditional finger sandwiches. The scones were scrumptious, as were the sweets that I ended up enjoying later that evening. Add in friendly, pleasant, and helpful service, and one starts thinking about moving to Chestertown. In addition to the full afternoon tea, the Kettledrum offers a cream tea, a light tea, and a savory tea at very reasonable prices.
Reviewer: A lover of tea Add your review  

Tea Trolley, Cockeysville, MD

Visited: July, 2007.  Reviewed: July, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The Tea Trolley catered afternoon tea for my July 7, 2007 wedding reception. The staff was professional and extremely friendly, the tea and food delicious, and the presentation elegant. They even took on some extra responsibilities, such as cutting the cake and serving cold drinks. I highly recommend the Tea Trolley. They made my wedding reception a beautiful event.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Emily K. Bibby Mitchell Add your review  

The Tea Cupboard, Cumberland, MD

Visited: January, 2008. Meal: Retail only. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: Sample from a hotpot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: n/a. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This has to be one of the cutest little tea shops in the world! Small, but they have a wonderful selection of teas and lovely pots and accessories. If you love tea and are in the area, this is not to be missed!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Deborah 1/8 Add your review 

Visited: October, 2007. Meal: Retail only. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: n/a.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: n/a. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Wonderful place to visit. Hidden treasure in Cumberland. Cute shop, lots of selections in accesssories, over 100 Teas. Worth the stop!!!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Teaguy 10/7 Add your review   

Tea on the Tiber, Ellicott City, MD

Visited: August, 2007. Meal: Cream tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This by far one of the best tea rooms around! Its a beautiful tea room in the historic district of Ellicott City. The staff are very nice, the tea menu is very extensive, and the food is wonderful! Don't miss this place if you have never been. I always make a day of it shopping up and down Main Street on the way to and from the tea!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Pam 3/08 Add your review    

Visited: June, 2007. Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good. Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: The tea room was lovely but too small for private conversations. You unwittingly heard eveyones conversations from the other three tables quite well. The savories were interesting and tasted good. I would have chosen a plain scone in lieu of chocolate chip to compliment the lemon curd, jam and clotted cream (of which were miniscule portions). My friends tea was very good although I will not try a white tea again. The server was scarce yet the 20% tip was included in the cost. I would say that I will give it another try although it is not the best tea room I have ever visited.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: NC Visitor 10/7 Add your review     

Visited: January, 2006.  Reviewed: January, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I was absolutely stunned when reading the review posted before mine. I have tried many tearooms in MD & this is the best by far. I have never seen so much food at an afternoon tea & with so many "extras" added like the cheese & fruit. The scones were hot out of the oven & moist in the inside; the best I have ever had. The tea selection is large but not overwhelming. The sandwiches are different & flavorful. Not the miniature one bite sandwiches I have received at other tearooms. By the time I reached the sweets on the top tier I was stuffed but the desserts were so appealing I could not resist! I found this tearoom to be head & shoulders above any other I have tried. I have been here  many times & love to return at least once a month to see what new treats they have. Look for my next review in February - I know I'll be going back!!! 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: tea4jen Add your review     

Visited: September, 2005.  Reviewed: January, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Poor.  Food: Poor. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: I thought that I was just paying for the room! The food was so small and no that good! The tea tasted like water! It had no flavor! I will never go back! They need to get better food and tea before they ever see me again!
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: rbbay1 Add your review     

Visited: August, 2005.  Reviewed: August, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: If you make reservations for afternoon tea be aware that they want 48 hours notice of any change. This is not stated on the web site or mentioned when I called to make the reservation. You may be charged for anyone that cancels within that 48 hours. I wasn't but was told I could be. 20% gratuity is automatically added to the bill. I don't believe the service warrents this. 
Would you go back? Maybe.
Reviewer: Taz Add your review     

Visited: May, 2005.  Reviewed: May, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This was my third visit here and the food has always been great. My only complaint is that once our server brought our food, we never saw her again until we had completely finished. The 20% tip is automatically added. How convenient!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Patsy Add your review     

Visited: December, 2003.  Reviewed: November, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Fair. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Tea on the Tiber is a very cozy tea room with excellent teas and service. I have not found a tea room, to date, with a better cup of Earl Grey. The homemade scones are also a favorite of mine. Although most of the sandwiches were good, the bread could have been fresher and something other than roast beef would have been preferred. Regardless of my complaints, this tea room remains a favorite among my friends.
Reviewer: A Baltimore Lindy Circle Add your review     

Visited: August, 2004.  Reviewed: August, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Fair. Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The hostesses were very friendly. The sandwiches were good. Fruit consisted of a half of strawberry and two slivers of an orange for each person. Two of the desserts were recognized by my friend as those you can buy at Costco Warehouse. My friends and I have visited tea rooms all over Maryland and Southern Pennsylvania and were not pleased with this experience. We felt as though we basically paid for atmosphere.
Reviewer: Mary B Add your review     

Visited: June, 2004.  Reviewed: August, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I took a chance and walked in without a reservation and the hostess was very pleasant and accommodating. They had an empty table and I was seated promptly. The tea room is delightful, small but cosy. The service was prompt and the sandwiches and sweets were just wonderful. Top notch quality and very tasty. Everything was fresh and there was plenty to eat. A very nice tea room which I highly recommend and will be sure to visit often.
Reviewer: Lisa Add your review     

Visited: March, 2004.  Reviewed: March, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Everything was lovely. My only complaint was that the scone was so deliciously sweet that I didn't want or need to use lemon curd or jelly or even double cream. I like all that stuff so I would have preferred a regular plain scone. After all none of that really goes with a cinnamon scone. Other than that it was really good. The sandwiches were terrific, I could have done with fewer sweets and more sandwiches but that's tea for you.
Reviewer: Marie Add your review     

Visited: January, 2004.  Reviewed: January, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My friend and I found this tea room to be outstanding. Visitors have a nice selection of herbal, green, or black teas from which to choose. Food is plentiful and interesting -- 'extra' touches included cheese wedges, grapes, a slice of raisin bread with what we think was a walnut cream cheese spread, and a deviled egg -- and for the first time in my afternoon tea-ing experience, the sweets were every bit as delicious as the savory sandwiches (the lemon curd tartlets were particularly good). The tea room has the feel of a lovely Victorian parlor, but we were perfectly comfortable in jeans and boots on a snowy day. Service was prompt and friendly, and the atmosphere was very welcoming. Cost for afternoon tea was $18.00 (before tax or tip). The menu changes monthly -- my friend and I have plans to return.
Reviewer: Kristin Add your review   

Visited: January, 2004.  Reviewed: January, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This was a fantastic tea experience! The shop is on the ground floor of an interior design business, and all of the beautiful furnishings are also for sale. The atmosphere and service were wonderful, and the food was incredible. The afternoon tea included a lot more food than most, and I left feeling quite satisfied. The scones were delicious, and there was a great variety of finger sandwiches and fruits and sweets. The teas available were a nice mix of standard black teas and more exotic. I had the Ginseng Peppermint, which was fantastic. The menu changes monthly, and I fully intend to go back often.
Reviewer: Kathy MacMillan Add your review  

Serenity Tearoom, Frederick, MD

Visited: March, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The owners and staff go out of thier way to make you feel at home. This is a onderful place to go and feel at peace and enjoy the company of your friends. The food is all made on the premises and is very well manufactured.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: kabram78  3/08  Add your review  

Visited: March, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The tearoom is lovely and relaxing. The tea and food are excellent. The service is the best anywhere. We were celebrating the birthday of one of my daughters and decided we'll continue our birthday celebrations there. Pat
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: george.pat.leiby  3/08  Add your review  

Visited: February, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Having had a wonderful experience at Serenity 6 months ago, I took 3 friends and the experience was just as wonderful. The owner/hostess created a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You can tell that she really loves her business and her patrons. The food was scrumptious and freshly prepared there. The scones were warm and melted in your mouth. There was an excellent assortment of tea sandwiches and sweets including hand dipped chocolate covered strawberries. Yumm! I look forward to my next trip to this little jewel in Frederick.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: PK 2/08  Add your review  

Visited: January, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Serenity Tea Room is a wonderful place to spend the afternoon with friends. The selection of tea was amazing. It was a very enjoyable experience
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Anntoinette 2/08  Add your review  

Visited: February, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Thoroughly enjoyable experience, it was a nice relaxing rainy afternoon. The food was delicious and the tea just perfect. I look forward to going back.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Maribeth G. 2/08  Add your review  

Visited: November, 2007.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The exterior is beautiful, the interior is charming, the whole experience is absolutely lovely and is worth repeating!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Jenny  11/7  Add your review  

Visited: June, 2007.  Reviewed: June, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Serenity Tea Room is absolutely lovely! From the exterior appearance, to the interior decor, to the friendly service, everything was fabulous. The food was delicious, especially the scones! There was an extensive menu of teas to chose from with helpful descriptions. The entire experience was wonderful and I intend to return again!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Faithe  Add your review  

Visited: April, 2007.  Reviewed: July, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: As repeat customers, this has been a special place for me and my sister! This last time we  took our mother and she found it to be just as much of a treat as we've known it to be. Wonderfully relaxing way to share special afternoons or to make one special!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Melanie  Add your review  

Visited: June, 2007.  Reviewed: June, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I had long anticipated a visit to this tea room, and was finally able to go last Saturday. The owner and her girls were so personable and professional. This was evident from our first telephone contact and was maintained throughout our vist. They made our experience delightful. I have been to a number of teas, but this was a first for my friend. We both left vowing we would be back soon.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Rhonda Crawford  Add your review  

Visited: June, 2007.  Reviewed: June, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Our group of Red Hatters visited Serenity for the second time on June 26, 2007. We were very please our first visit and this one was equally delightful. The teas are brewed perfectly. I especially liked a new one for me, Earl Grey Cream. The service is very gracious and the food tastes good and is presented attactively.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Veronica  Add your review  

Visited: June, 2007.  Reviewed: June, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We had our MOMS (Club) Day Out at this lovely establishment. The whole affair was perfectly delightful. Blanche (the owner who also greeted and seated us) was sweet, informative, and eager to please. She educated me about the teas (privately,