Tea Reviews: Virginia

Camella's Remember When, Abingdon, VA

Visited: June, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Fair. Service: Average.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: I took my mother and daughter for Afternoon Tea and was told that we could only order two varieties of tea per table. I am more accustomed to each person ordering their own individual pots. Also, the afternoon tea consisted mostly of sweets and very little savory. I was disappointed in the room temperature scones which resembled prebaked pillsbury bisucuits from Sam's with a orange marmalade glaze on top. It just wasn't what I expected. The gift shop was lovely and the place settings and china were all quite beautiful. I just felt the food was lacking. Even the tea sandwiches that day had a date nut cream cheese filling. I felt my blood sugar crash before I left there. I would suggest the addition of a small quiche.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: diva10  7/09  Add your review   

British Pantry/Blighty's Café, Aldie, VA
(Formerly in Chantilly)

Visited: November, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My family (husband and two children) and I visited the tea room several times in 2008. We have enjoyed the food and service very much. I visit tea rooms quite regularly since I hark from England, and the one thing I can't abide is when a tea room is stingy with the clotted or devon cream portion. The British Pantry has always provided ample amounts of cream and jam. A special visit we had was on Mother's Day 2008. Again the service and food was great, and at the end of the tea, they presented me with a small Mother's Day gift -- very thoughtful. We travel to Middleburg several times a year and we always stop here.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: D. MacDonald  1/09  Add your review   

Visited: November, 2008.  Meal: Cream tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Average. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I visited the British Pantry today with my two children for scones and tea. We received 4 small scones, one shot glass full of jam, one shot glass full of clotted cream, and one pot of Earl Grey tea. The bill was $37! I don't recommend this establishment.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: c rosado  11/08  Add your review   

Visited: April, 2006.  Reviewed: April, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This is one of the best places for tea west of the Dorchester in London! The ladies that run it are superb  hostesses, and the food is grand. They DO know what Devonshire/clotted cream is, and serve plenty of it (as opposed to SOME places who make a concoction and call it clotted cream). There store is very nice also, and it's just a beautiful place.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Pamela  Add your review   

Visited: December, 2005.  Reviewed: January, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I went to the British Pantry as treat from my aunt along with three girls (14, 11, and 6), and a boy (8), and the first thing that impressed me was how the staff treated everyone, including the children. In fact, our waitress was so nice to say that six afternoon teas would be too much food, and suggested a five afternoons, and a crème, which was perfect. The tea, PG Tips, was among the best cupper I have had in a good long while, and the food was exquisite. The British Pantry has recently added a "Savory" afternoon tea along with their "Sweet" tea, and if you go, order both. The "Savories" had sausage pastry, and quiche among other tasty bites, and the "Sweets" sandwiches, and cookies would make you believe you're in some English county tea room. All in all, wonderful. After you're done, make sure to look around the shop, amazing supplies of British foods and drinks, and their collection of English tea foods, and gifts is second to none in the Washington, D.C. area. Be sure however to get reservations at least a week in advance (2 or 3 is recommended) as the dining room is too small to accommodate all who love this small slice of England.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: DragonaFireis333  Add your review   

Visited: October, 2004.  Reviewed: November, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: An acquaintance visited this spot of England in Virginia and both of us enjoyed afternoon tea at the lovely tea room. Reminded me of my time in England and having afternoon tea there. I will visit again for tea or a meal.
Reviewer: Margo - Herndon  Add your review   

Visited: March, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I've recently moved back to the USA after having lived in the UK for four years and was delighted to finally find an authentic tea room back here in my hometown/NOVA. The atmosphere is friendly, the sweets are wonderful, the tea is perfect and the service is impeccable. I felt right at home!
The adjoining British specialty shop is fun to browse afterwards and has an amazing selection of all of my favourite goodies from the UK, from tinned items (Heinz baked beans, Bird's custard, etc.) to biscuits and chocolates,  and also a good range of imported ales to keep my husband happy.
The owner was telling me that they also host special events from time to time for special occasions like the Queen's Golden Jubilee (last summer) and Easter (chocolate eggs!) which sound like a lot of fun. 
I highly recommend a visit to anyone who appreciates a good cuppa!
Reviewer: Sarah (from Springfield, VA)  Add your review   

Visited: January, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The closest in ambiance a Virginian can obtain to being in a tearoom in Devon. The tea servers are all English, lovely, and warmhearted. They will cater to picky children by offering ham and cheese sandwiches, crusts removed, of course, instead of salmon and cucumber. The portions are generous, and the shop is fun to peruse afterwards. An absolutely fabulous place. 
Reviewer: Sophy Lewis  Add your review     

Visited: January, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: What a gem! I still can't believe I stumbled across this little piece of England in the U.S. The staff were wonderful, all British and ready to chat about the homeland and times gone by. I felt totally at home. The afternoon tea was splendid and ohh, I can still taste that clotted cream! I have recommended this wonderful place to all my friends; go on try it out for yourself, I know you can't fail to be impressed.
Reviewer: Cathy Emery  Add your review      

Green Spring Gardens Park, Alexandria, VA

Visited: February, 2004.  Reviewed: September, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The location, an historic house, is minimal but pleasant. The food, savories and sweets, were excellent in both quality and presentation. The food is brought to your table on a tiered platter either before or after the lecture. Several servers go about, table to table, pouring the tea. Hot and fresh. If you need a refill you simply have to catch the eye of one of the servers. 
While most, if not all, the folks involved are volunteers, they could not be more gracious. I have been to half a dozen of this Park's "tea programs" and have thoroughly enjoyed each one. 
Reviewer: Bri in Virginia Add your review  

The Appomattox Tea Room, Appomattox, VA

Visited: April, 2007.  Reviewed: May, 2007.
Meal: Private party. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We had about 40 women from our church for tea at 1:00. It was lovely, delicious, and such a delightful experience. The food was 5 stars, and the tea was piping hot and plentiful. The best part, was the ambiance, and the host and hostess, they were charming, and very hospitable.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: KMTowns  Add your review     

The Ritz-Carlton at Pentagon City, Arlington, VA

Visited: January, 2008.  Meal: Adults private party. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The wait-staff was aloof. My party and I waited a long time before tea was served. Food was lacking. Too expensive for services rendered.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Miss Cint. 11/08  Add your review  .  

Visited: January, 2003
Meal: Private party. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Poor.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: On January 25, I hosted an afternoon tea for a party of twelve at the Ritz Carlton in Pentagon City. The service was excellent and the wait staff professional and accommodating. The Lobby Lounge was elegantly appointed and the ambiance was as I expected from the Ritz. The food, what little was served, was substandard.
I have had tea at the Ritz in Tysons Corner on a number of occasions and have always been pleased with the quality and presentation of the savories, scones, tea sandwiches, and sweets. On this occasion, the Tysons Corner facility could not accommodate us. Had I any idea that the quality would vary so greatly among Ritz facilities, I would have rescheduled my event and held it at the Ritz in Tysons Corner.
I will continue to patronize the Ritz in Tysons but I will never schedule another event at the Ritz Pentagon City or recommend this facility to anyone else.
To add insult to injury, the Ritz Pentagon City never responded to the letter I sent expressing my disappointment. Definitely not the level of responsiveness you would expect from an establishment that bills itself as the premier hotel chain.
I recommend you either save your money and time or drink your tea at the Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner.
Reviewer: DEC  Add your review  .  

Visited: August, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Poor.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: I agree with another reviewer: the Ritz is soooooooo STINGY with the food, and if you're paying $30 per person it is a HUGE disappointment. I will not be going there again. Other than that the quality of the sandwiches was good but the desserts were horrible -- sickly and sweet as if they were bought in some cheap store.
Reviewer: Tea lover in Virginia  Add your review  . 

Visited: November, 2001
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Nice tea room with a cozy atmosphere. It took a while for us to be served, but once we were, we were treated nicely. Sandwiches were delicious, but I would have liked more -- we received a tiny cucumber round, a tiny chicken salad sandwich, a tiny egg salad sandwich, and a tiny salmon round. The scone with cream and raspberry jam was wonderful. Surprisingly, the sweets weren't as good as I would have suspected, but the tea was great. Cost was $24 before tax and tip. I would recommend it, but also suggest that you plan to have an early supper. ;)
Reviewer: Kristin  Add your review  . 

Visited: April, 2001
Tea: Good.  Food: Fair.  Service: Fair.  Appearance: Poor.
Comments: I was looking forward to "tea-ing" at the Ritz -- after all, it's the place you imagine when you think about the ladies who lunch. Unfortunately, it was a big disappointment, and there are several other teas in the metro DC area I would recommend before the Ritz.
The ambiance is okay -- there is a nice fireplace, and the cozy chairs and sofas are very nice. The room was very dark, however, and felt more like a bar than a tea room. In fact, there is a bar in the corner, and several tables of people were drinking alcohol. Which didn't bother me, it was more that it contributed to the lack of ambiance. The clientele was a mixture of folks staying at the hotel and many businessmen. 
The music was pretty tacky! I prefer a chamber music trio, or quiet classical. The Ritz has a very loud pianist playing show tunes. Food was also a disappointment! They serve you four TINY pieces of sandwich -- salmon, cuke, and a couple of tasteless mysteries. You get one very small (but tasty) scone; and a few little pastries. The tea itself is Harney & Sons and is of course fine. BUT, they steam the milk! YUCK!
In short, my major complaint is that the room is *very* stingy about the food, which isn't that good to begin with, and they can't decide if they are a tea room or a bar room.
Reviewer: lees515@yahoo.com Add your review   

Visited: September, 1999
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The best scones I've ever had come from this particular Ritz-Carlton. The service is impeccable, and the live piano music and gas fireplace add to the charm! The matching Wedgwood china and brown sugar chunks add to the mystique. The Ritz lets you pour your own tea, which I like. The staff remembers you and what you like, and are very accommodating. When I'm not sure where to go, and I want the best, this is where I bring people. Only bad thing: after 5pm smoking is allowed, as this room doubles as a bar/lounge. Pity.
Reviewer: nancy@admit.nlc.gwu.edu  Add your review  .   

Tea Room at Channel Bass Inn, Chincoteague, VA

Visited: November, 2007.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Channel Bass offers a lovely tea, very comfortable and delicious. Barbara makes everyone feel at home, even if you are seated with another group. I was traveling as a single, and she connected me with other guests. Her selections vary from day to day -- all are delicious. Her scones are fantastic.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: J. Harrod from Fairfax VA 2/08 Add your review     

Tea, Lace, and Roses - A Victorian Tea House, Culpeper, VA

Visited: February, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Welcoming ambiance, charm and amiable visit with the cook, a delectable array of tea foods (in ample quantity to satisfy the men in the party), and the careful attention of our hostess afforded us one of the pleasantest afternoon teas we have experienced.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: TDS 2/09 Add your review    

Visited: May, 2006.  Reviewed: October, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My mom and I drove 35 minutes to visit this tea room, and it was well worth the drive. The selection of teas was superb, the service person was attentive, the rooms had great ambience, and the food was excellent.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Katie Add your review    

Visited: August, 2005.  Reviewed: September, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My aunt and I drove about 50 miles to visit this lovely spot. We arrived late in the afternoon and there was still a fair amount of business. The owners were gracious and answered all our questions about the teas they served. They are very knowledgable. As I am thinking of going into the tea business myself, they sat with us for a long time talking about the business aspect of the tearoom. They also have lovely gifts available throughout the shop. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Leslie Bryan Ingersoll Add your review    

Visited: May, 2004.  Reviewed: May, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My husband took me to Tea, Lace, and Roses for my birthday yesterday. We had such a wonderful time that I wanted to post this right away! Situated in a historic brick building, the tea room is comprised of several small, interconnected rooms, each providing a tastefully decorated and intimate setting. The tea was excellently prepared (perfectly steeped and pre-strained), the scones were served with real clotted cream, and the sandwiches and desserts were artistically presented and quite tasty. I happened to mention in passing that it was my birthday and was pleasantly surprised when the proprietors brought a special birthday dessert to our table! There are hats and boas for those who like to dress up, and there's plenty of merchandise to peruse after eating.
Reviewer: S. Gensler Add your review  

Edinburg Antiques and Tea Rooms, Edinburg, VA

Visited: December, 2007.  Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Our friends in VA took us to this tea shop early December 2007. The shop was beautifully decorated for the holidays. We had a wonderful time enjoying fantastic food and friendly service! The staff was very knowledgeable about the tea and food. We'll ask our friends to go again on our next visit! Irene, KozeeLady
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: Irene, Koffee Kompanions 1/08  Add your review    

Visited: October, 2005.  Reviewed: November, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: As an English woman I can recognize an authentic tea shop - very nicely presented - all home baked - and a very friendly atmosphere - would definitely recommend.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: LizB  Add your review      

The Bailiwick Inn, Fairfax, VA

Visited: February, 2004.  Reviewed: March, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Fair. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: Please save your time and money. In advance we were shown a beautiful room with antiques, etc. where our group was to be seated, but on the day of the event we were were seated in a very plain room away from everything and everyone, as though we were not good enough. The management throughout our dealings was very pompous and high handed. And for that treatment we paid double what most teas cost in this area. The service people, however, were very nice, and we can't blame them for the lack of graciousness of their management. As it was served buffet, many items were dried out. The only exceptional items were the scones. Hardly worth putting up with the attitude of the management we never once saw while we were there.
Reviewer: Lady Di  Add your review   

Visited: February, 2004.  Reviewed: March, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Poor.  Food: Good. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: Save your time and money. The food is good but overpriced. The tea is blah. The management is very pompous and has forgotten just who the customer is. A tea should be a gracious event. No graciousness here. I'm embarrassed that I was the one who suggested my group go there. There were too many problems to go into in this space.
Reviewer: DBaker  Add your review 

The Sweet Life Cafe, Fairfax, VA

Visited: May, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: I enjoyed my visit to this tearoom. However, I had problems getting someone at the shop to guarantee me a reservation. The first time I called and requested a reservation, the person who answered the phone told me they didn't have the book with them, took my information, and said they would call me back. They never did. I called the day before to confirm my reservation and was told there was nothing written in the book, but it wouldn't be a problem for me to come in. The second time I tried to go to tea, I had the same experience making a reservation. I tried to make a reservation for the 3rd time this week, and was told by the person who answered the phone that they couldn't take my reservation - I would have to call the owner's cell phone and leave a message. She would call me back to confirm my reservation. That was 4 days ago, and nothing. I really enjoyed my experience at this tea shop, and I keep trying to go back, but they don't seem to want my business!
Would you go back? Maybe
Reviewer: Elizabeth, Reston VA 10/08  Add your review  

Visited: May, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: What a wonderful experience! A charming old house, tastefully decorated. Very attentive service by the owner, who never made us feel rushed and frequently refilled our teapots. Good selection of teas, loose not bags. The "afternoon" tea was 4 courses: a cup of soup and a salad, a scone, a generous plate of 4 types of finger sandwiches, and dessert -- so many tempting choices it was hard to decide. All the food was made on the premises, fresh, delicious, and attractively presented. Definitely worth $30. I have paid more for lesser quality. I would recommend Sweet Life to anyone and will be returning soon.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Heather, Burke VA 5/08  Add your review  

Visited: April, 2008.  Meal: Adults party. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Average. Service: Poor.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: I reserved tea room for lunch & desert @ 12:15. Our sandwiches & tea didn’t come until 1 pm, 45 minutes late, because they had another large, loud party they were serving. They offered my 1-yr old crackers, which didn’t come until AFTER our meal was served. They advertised that for every adult meal, free kids meal- NOT TRUE. Waitress offered water before our tea; the water NEVER came. The tea lady was very rude & interfered with our privacy, clanging silverware & dishes in a nearby cabinet so we couldn't hear each other speak. They asked us to hurry up with our dessert because another private party was waiting, even though they JUST served us dessert. We spent $60 for 3 ladies for 5 bite size measly sandwiches, tea, & 1 dessert a piece- & HORRIBLE service. They “graciously” added a 20% gratuity for themselves, which I would not have given them, and I’m a gracious giver! I would have complained, but I was treating an old friend for her birthday & I didn't want to ruin the mood.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Laura Wissing 4/08  Add your review   

Pinkadilly Tea, Fredericksburg, VA

Visited: August, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My daughter and I visited the Friday before Labor Day and had a wonderful time! We loved picking out a hat to wear so we could have tea like "proper ladies." The service was excellent and the shop is charming. Kaye, the owner, has many of her own tea pots on display. The food was fantastic - we had the Queen Elizabeth tea with the cream of crab soup. The soup was some of the best crab soup I've ever had. The portions were very generous - we took part of it home with us. I was visiting from Texas so won't be able to get back often, but I will be back.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Susan 10/8  Add your review  

Visited: January, 2008.  Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Tea-wonderful, tea-delicious, tea-glamorous. Beautifully decorated, great food, ample staff, good location. Should be a destination for tea room lovers.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: A Pearl  2/8  Add your review     

Visited: January, 2008.  Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Happened in but will find my way back! If you love Tea Rooms you've got to go here! Stepping into Pinkadilly is like going to the parlor of a friend's charming victorian cottage. Ambiance includes rose patterns, chadeliers,lace & individual blessings at each setting. Wonderful service, tempting menu... to die for lemon/blueberry scone served with lemon curd. Steaming tasty tea cheerfully served in teapots wearing cozies. A Wonderful place for Grandma/Mom to host a lovely tea for  a Grandaughter /daughter, hats are available to make priceless memories. Cost was reasonable you'll even have money left over to buy something in the small gift shop. A lovely place with a an awesome cup of tea that is delightful to sit in! Don't forget to get more scones to go... seriously the best I've had on the East Coast!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Deb Tatum  2/8  Add your review     

Visited: January, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My friend and I were excited to try this tearoom when we noticed it downtown. It's on the corner of Princess Anne and Fauquier, a very quick walk from the downtown library and the near the downtown shopping area. The tea house is adorably romantic, both inside and out! It caters beautifully to the feminine side of women, though, we noticed that there were men there enjoying the scones and tea as well. We had the full "Queen Elizabeth" tea, the tomato soup was savory and delicious and the 3 cheese quiche was wonderfully gooey and warm. The scones were delicious and the selection of desserts were tasty and satisfying. Both the owner Kaye and Brenda our server were helpful and friendly, we enjoyed meeting them and seeing the historical building which houses Pinkadilly Tea. All in all a wonderful experience we plan to have again and again!!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Kimberly  1/8  Add your review   

Shamrock Tea Room at Stringbean, Galax, VA

Visited: March, 2008.  Meal: Just a cuppa. Type of tea: Tea smoothie/latte. Served: In a take-out cup.
Tea: Good.  Food: --.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Was a very friendly and pleasant experance.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: sonnyt42 3/08  Add your review       

Mrs. Hardesty's Tea Room at Hardesty-Higgins House, Harrisonburg, VA

Visited: September, 2006.  Reviewed: July, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I took my sister here for her birthday. She lives near Harrisonburg and recommended it. They have dozens of kinds of loose tea to choose from -- you can sniff the loose tea to help make up your mind. The food was excellent and ample. The scones were especially good. The price made it a real bargain. I live near Washington, D.C., and at home a tea of this quality would cost 3 times as much.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Martha  Add your review    

Visited: February, 2006.  Reviewed: March, 2006.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The atmosphere was delightful. Every detail was perfect. I absolutely loved my time there and plan to return often to taste as many of the teas as I can.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Loretta  Add your review    

Visited: January, 2006.  Reviewed: January, 2006.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The atmosphere was very friendly and quaint. The food is all freshly made and delicious. My daughter and I go frequently and enjoy the food, tea and company immensly. Their chocolate scones are out of this world and they will make them by special request if you call ahead. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Herb of Grace  Add your review 

Keswick Hall, Keswick, VA

Visited: August, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Keswick Hall is an Orient Express owned resort in the heart of Virginia's hunt country within easy distance of UVA C'ville, DC, and historic estates. Your party will be seated in one of several lovely federalist stlye rooms (we were in the library). Forget the noisy, overcrowded rooms you've suffered at most hotel teas, because you'll have the room to yourselves! We were seated & served promptly and Sahmeed, our server, treated us royally. Tea (first quality goods) came in individual heavy plate pots that stayed hot. Each pot held enough tea to get each of us through the meal with room to spare. China was lovely and there was too much fab food to finish: So Sahmeed packed it up with info on how to contact the Hall to order more of the Harliot champers (at a discount!) Goodies included fresh baked madeleines, 3 medium size scones apiece with jam, curd, cream and marmalade, truffles, & sandwiches. Plan on spending a good 2 hours. This is an experience to be savored, not rushed.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Maggie  8/09    Add your review   

Aylesbury Tea Room, Leesburg, VA

Visited: June, 2007.  Reviewed: July, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We had my Daughters Birthday Party here. From the moment we stepped into this beautiful tea room, were we treated very well by the lovely owners. The tea was fantastic! My youngest daughter and one of her friends both normally do not like tea. They loved the Yorkshire tea that was served and must have had a whole pot between them! The scones are excellent! beautiful tender and flaky texture, just slightly sweet with a creamy flavor. Real clotted cream was served along with excellent strawberry jam. The sandwiches were delicious, as were the other savories. Our visit was well worth the hour long drive to get there from our home and I am definately planning another trip soon!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Yvonne Odegard  Add your review  

Visited: December, 2006.  Reviewed: December, 2006.
Meal: Cream tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Having experienced cream teas in Cornwall, England many times during my 82 years, I would like to say that the scones served here are THE BEST I have ever tasted. Moist and delicious!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Mrs Lin Ridley, Wiltshire, England  Add your review 

Mrs. Tate's Bake Shop & Tea Room, Leesburg, VA

Visited: June, 2007.  Reviewed: June, 2007.
Meal: Dessert tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: While antique shopping in Leesburg one Saturday, I stopped by with my daughter and a friend and we each tried something different. My daughter had her favorite tea, Yorkshire, along with a slice of chocolate cake, both of which she enjoyed thoroughly. I had the lemon cake, which was very good: not too sweet with a very light, creamy frosting. My friend had a Boston cream tart, which she enjoyed but found the tart crust a bit too hard. The staff was attentive, and we enjoyed our impromptu tea.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Kim  Add your review      

The Woodruff House Bed & Breakfast, Luray, VA

Visited: August, 2002.  Reviewed: September, 2004.
Meal: Cream tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good.  Service: Fair.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: While this B&B's Victorian Inn offers "afternoon tea" you should be aware it is what the rest of us might call "cream tea;" e.g. no sandwiches, only sweets. You must specifically request their "English Tea" to get any sandwiches.
The restaurant is in a lovely gingerbread-trim house and, although primarily decorated with new items, they get an "A" for effort in trying to create romantic ambiance.
The actual tea I rate as "Good" because it was a name brand. My friend and I were extremely disappointed, however, to have to make our own tea, by the bag, in our cups. To us, this made the overall experience rate as "Poor." Perhaps others would not be as offended. I rate service as "Fair" because we had to request they put out more hot water (as no one was watching it).  In their defense I should mention it is the least expensive tea I have ever gone to. For myself, I'd rather pay higher price and have a teapot to brew in.
Reviewer: Bri in Virginia  Add your review    

Visited: June, 2001
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My husband and I have visited many tea rooms in the Maryland/Virginia area; we thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Woodruff House B&B and Victorian Inn, and plan to go again. The ambiance and setting were wonderful; lots of beautiful decorating, candles, fresh flowers, and soft music. The food was served buffet style; delicious and bountiful. We had three different tea sandwiches, three cheeses and crackers, fresh fruit, wonderful scones, and four decadent desserts. Needless to say, we didn't need dinner! Flavored coffee and a selection of herbal/fruit flavored teas were offered along with the food.
Reviewer: jlaun@yahoo.com  Add your review       

The Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, McLean, VA

Visited: July, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Went with my husband and two adult sons. Very nice afternoon. Elegant setting, attentive service. Huge pots of tea. The sandwiches were a bit dry, and only 4 per person. The sweets were very good. However, we still prefer the afternoon tea at the Willard; their food just tastes better, and you can have seconds.
Would you go back? Maybe.
Reviewer: The cat lady 7/09 Add your review

Visited: August, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Average. Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I've always wanted to go have afternoon tea at the Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner, so I went with two of my friends. When you look at their website, they say it as if they have a bunch of really elegant sandwiches that they make for you. The servers were pretty nice, but after starting off really well (coming by and checking up on us), they pretty much forgot about us after 30 minutes. The tea was good, but I could have gone to several other  places in the DC area for the same food and ambiance for half of what they charge. I honestly don't mind paying a lot for a good food and experience, and this place was a total waste of money for me.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: michelle b.  10/08 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: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I took my sister and niece to afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton in Tysons Corner for their birthdays. It was my niece's first tea and she loved it. She has been talking about it to everyone. It was on my sister's "wish list of things to do" and she was thrilled. A friend of my niece's joined us for the celebration and we had a wonderful time. This is the second time I have had tea at the Ritz, Tysons Corner and will definitely go back again. Tea & pastries is now $28; tea w/sandwiches & pastries is $34, and tea w/sandwiches, pastries, champagne & strawberries is $38.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: JK of Fairfax Add your review    

Visited: December, 2004.  Reviewed: March, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Good. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: We have visited this location for afternoon tea for over 10 years as we celebrate my mother-in-law's birthday on Dec 24 each year this way. I wanted to write because we have seen a steady decline in the "specialness" of their teas. Years ago the lobby area outside the tea room was decorated extensively for Christmas and there were strolling musicians during tea. Now there's one Christmas tree and because the adjoining bar is open to holiday parties at the same time as tea, the raucous noise, laughter, and worst of all SMOKE drifts in over tea. If this wasn't a 'tradition' for my now-80 year old m-in-law, we would find someplace else to spend our money. It is quite expensive for a less than relaxing experience. I have to say we'd go back again because of the tradition, but it isn't with a willing heart.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: KK Add your review      

Rowena's, Norfolk, VA

Visited: February, 2009.  Meal: Royal tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I am the Director of The Virginia Tea Society. We held our Valentine tea at Rowena's and it was beyond belief. It was the best tea, in this area, that I have had the opportunity of attending. We were offered bottomless pots of loose teas. There were five types of sandwiches - two halves of each, cherry tomatos, two scones served with lemon curd, Devonshire clotted cream and assorted jams, three slices of Rowena's's famous cakes, three slices of various melons, strawberries, kiwi's, grapes, and two hersey kisses. All of this was served on three tier for each guest. We were also served a glass of sparkling cider. It was just everything you expect at a Royal Tea and beyond. It was simply Marvelous!!! I recommend this Tea Room highly to everyone who reads this review. Thank you Rowena, Andrea and staff for a remarkable event! We will certainly be back soon! Aurora Livingston, Director, Virginia Tea Society
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Aurora Livingston  2/09  Add your review  . 

Visited: June, 2004.  Reviewed: February, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Celbrated my daughters 6th birthday at Rowena's. the staff was exceptional. they cattered to 12 chattery yet well behaved 6-7 yearolds. gave them each a breif lesson on the art of proper tea room behavior and how to handle themselfs and the proper way to enjoy all the goodies placed infront of them. the food was excellent and the service supurb. each child left feeling pampered and special. treated like
little royalty. rowena's provided my daughter with exactly what she wanted for her birthday. to be treated like a princess and have a truly beautiful birthday with her freinds.I truely enjoyed my experience. I would recomend rowena's to all looking for service and pampering. as would all the parents that stayed and had afternoon tea with us. we even had 3 dads to sit and enjoy a cup of tea. it's not just for the girls you know. rowena's gave the childern an experience they will always remember and a taste of some of the finer things in life. thank you rowena for a wonderful experience. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Rose /norfolk va  Add your review  . 

Visited: July, 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: We were a small group of five women -- wives of veterans who served aboard the U.S.S. Wainwright. While the menfolk were having their business meeting, we ladies decided to do a little touring on our own. Kathy (that's me) suggested we might go to Rowena's (info from a flyer I picked up at the VA interstate info center). We tried this establishment, each ordering a different tea which we shared with each other, and sampled the delectables of "high [sic] tea" fare. The "angels" who assisted us were informative, attentive, and very pleasant. After our tea, we toured the factory where the jams, jellies, curds, and pound cakes were made. Of course we had to visit the gift shop. In all, we enjoyed a simply wonderful time. As spokeslady for our "gaggle of girls," we highly recommend Rowena's for a most delightful experience. Thank you Angels of Rowena's. Sincerely -- Kathy, Nancy, Judy, Donna, and Janet (Women of the U.S.S. Wainwright)
Reviewer: Official Sister to the Veterans of the U.S.S. Wainwright  Add your review  . 

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: April, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I thoroughly enjoyed this tearoom, and the lovely ladies there. I'd read about the tearoom in magazines, and it was also recommended to me, so I was so happy to have a chance to visit them. Each sandwich and dessert were unique in their tastes. Some of the sandwiches are made with Rowena's own jams and conserves. The turkey sandwich with her Cranberry Nut Conserve is to die for. Some of her ingredients are for sale in her shop, including her pound cake, and you get to taste them in your meal. Wonderful idea!
Reviewer: Valarie LaBore  Add your review  . 

Visited: June, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tea room is getting better all the time. They are working towards excellence. Rowena is a delightful host, and Andrea has introduced a wonderful small sweet potato biscuit with Virginia ham. The savories have improved and come with some of Rowena's sauces, and the clotted cream and Rowena's lemon curd are excellent. We are learning more about good English teas in the Tidewater area, and Rowena's is an example of improvement in afternoon tea food and service. Daphne is delightful in helping the customer in the shop area with extraordinary cakes, jams, curds, and accoutrements for tea.
Reviewer: www.tealadyofva.com  Add your review  . 

Visited: February, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good.  Service: Poor.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: The afternoon tea is served on tiered trays which is fabulous and filling. However, the facility is a warehouse that has turned a few front rooms into a tea room. The room itself is quaint, yet it is difficult to access. The building is awkward to enter and offers no parking The cakes are divine! Mail order is available and recommended. I enjoyed my time but would not place it high on my list of return visits.
Reviewer: K.Lanford  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: Excellent.
Comments: We (two friends and I) came to visit Rowena's on recommendation of this site. We were happy to find it so bright and entertaining to slowly browse through the front gift store, that when they called us to our table we were disappointed that they had called so soon. As we were guided to our table by our welcoming and conversational waitress, we were glad that we had postponed our shopping. The food was wonderful as was the tea (more tea selections would be my only suggestion) and the cakes are available for purchase and mail order. The décor was comfortable and attractive. The service was what really made the trip so memorable though; it was really wonderful! 
Reviewer: Kimberly Chronister, Fredericksburg, VA   Add your review  . 

Visited: January, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: What a delightful find! Though the type of tea was limited, the house fruit blend was very good. The food, especially the tea cakes, was outstanding. The tea room is a little hard to find, but very much worth the effort.
Reviewer: claylady5   Add your review   

Visited: January, 2001
Tea: Good.  Food: Good.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We have visited this charming tea room twice. The décor is whimsical and fun, the staff gracious and friendly. The tea had a selection of sandwiches, fruits, samples of pound cakes, and curds made by Rowena. All were very fresh. The scones were good, but we miss the Devon cream (they use whipped cream instead). One does not leave feeling empty. The portions are very generous. A lovely place to spend an afternoon.
Reviewer: deanofwmsburg  Add your review       

The Pink Bicycle Tea Room, Occoquan, VA

Visited: May, 2007.  Reviewed: May, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Love this place. . . ambiance is frilly and girly . . .takes you back in time and allows you to relax and revel in it . . .I took my mother and aunt in May, 2005 and we had such a blast. . . Once again . . . LOVE THIS PLACE!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Susan from Silver Spring, Maryland  Add your review    

Visited: April, 2007.  Reviewed: April, 2007.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Stopped in for lunch on a quiet Wednesday. Lisa took very good care of me, and was willing to prepare me a lunch between 'Cream Tea' and 'Queen's Tea.' Tea served was Cream Earl Grey. Lunch was a fresh-from-the-oven white-chocolate-cranberry scone served with clotted cream and marmalade; mixed baby greens salad with fresh bacon bits, chopped broccoli and cauliflower, pine nuts, sliced strawberries, and raspberry vinaigrette. A few butter crackers, orange slices, two salmon salad (?)-finger sandwiches, four 'open face' cucumber sandwich rounds, a handful of grapes, and a delicious fresh lemon-ginger cookie. Friendly service and pleasant conversation was similar to prior experiences I've had dining here. Perfect-sized meal for a rainy April noontime.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Casta Lusoria  Add your review    

Visited: March, 2007.  Reviewed: March, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My sister and I took my mom here for her birthday on March 4th. We all ordered the Queen Mum's tea (about $25 each) and thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon. We selected Yorkshire Gold and English Breakfast teas to drink. The teapots were replenished during the meal with hot refills without our having to ask. Our tea luncheon [sic] consisted of vegetarian minestrone soup, followed by tea sandwiches with roast beef, pimento cheese, and the classic cream cheese and cucumber. We were also served  warm cranberry and white chocolate scones with clotted cream and jam. Our tea sandwiches also came with fresh cut fruit, chocolate dipped strawberries and small pastries and baked goods for dessert. Classical music plays quietly in the background and the room is decorated with lace curtains and lit with a sparkling chandelier. Cozy and inviting - I'll be back again!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Mary H.  Add your review    

Visited: August, 2006.  Reviewed: August, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I've been going to this tea room since it opened. Now it is owned by a different person, but she  upholds the original owner's vision of providing an elegant afternoon tea in a cozy, welcoming setting. The Queen's Tea service is very filling and quite satisfying - plenty to eat and refills on the teapots.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Lorton Resident  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: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Today was such a great day. The 5 of us met there today and enjoyed the atmosphere of the tea house so much that we are planning on going back soon. We picked out our hats and felt like little girls playing dress up. The Queen Mum's Tea was wonderful and so was the service. The price was 18.95 per person, but was well worth it.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: A local resident  Add your review    

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: April, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I always look forward coming to the Pink Bicycle Tea Room with a group of girlfriends. When you first walk in, it is like stepping back in time. We all pick out a lovely hat (great pictures). The tea, the food, and the service were excellent, but even more important was the time us girls spent together at the Pink Bicycle Tea Room just talking and laughing. That's what afternoon teas are all about. I would recommend The Pink Bicycle Tea Room to all people, groups of 2 to 20, or even if you are someone that just needs to relax for awhile, it is a great place to unwind.
Reviewer: Terrie  Terrie  Add your review    

Visited: December, 2003.  Reviewed: January, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: It was like stepping back into the 1800s into a lovely parlor for tea. The service was wonderful, and the lace curtains, white wicker tables, and other antique furniture were very appropriate and "period." The tea itself was well prepared, and cakes and scones were wonderful. Also, they offer the use of beautiful period inspired hats to make the mood complete.
Reviewer: D. Baker  Add your review   

Visited: June, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This was a great tea shop. I have been to many but this one was the most fun by far. Choose your outfit carefully. You will select a hat from their hat collection when you come in. I found the louder the outfit the more beautiful the hat. They also have some classic hats but they are all fun. The food was good but piggy me I am used to two scones not one and up to five desserts not two. Price was $17.50 for a full tea setting and they had smaller selections for different prices.
Reviewer: Hawaii visitor  Add your review    

Visited: October, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Both loose and bagged teas. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Three friends and I visited The Pink Bicycle Tea Room on an October Saturday afternoon for an amazing tea experience. All of us chose one of the many Victorian style hats to wear into the tea room. The tea room offers a small and intimate setting with wonderfully genteel service and fantastic tea foods. Everything about the afternoon: atmosphere, tea settings, scones, and service were wonderful. Absolute A+ grade. 
Reviewer: Pamela  Add your review   

Visited: September, 2002
Meal: Private party. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We had the room reserved for a Baby Shower with 16 people. The food was great and the service was wonderful. It was great helping each other pick out hats that would go best with our dresses and then seeing everyone in them having tea was even better. I would definitely recommend this place to everyone.
Reviewer: Crystal  Add your review   

Visited: May, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We were visiting for the Military Spouses Appreciation Day. We had a lovely time choosing a hat to wear for tea. The atmosphere was charming. Our hostesses were gracious. The food was delicious. It was an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon with a girlfriend.
Reviewer: Tricia  Add your review   Keep reading for anther review of this tea room.

Visited: April, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose and bagged. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I had tea at The Pink Bicycle with two friends on a Thursday in April. One of them has already posted her review here! I agree with her comments and have a few things to add. They have an international selection of teas (most from China, England, and Japan). Some are menu "regulars" and some change from time to time (like specials). I had the apricot-flavored tea and it was delicious. When we made plans for our tea date, I got into a “hat” mood wishing I had a fancy, old-fashioned one to wear. But I didn’t find one in time. Not to worry, though! They HAVE them and you can borrow one while in the shop! The hats are hand-made or restored and very lovely. You can choose one to match your outfit. They also clean the hats them after each wearing. The shop is beautifully decorated with a Victorian theme and there are antiques and collectibles in the shop for sale. I recommend that you visit the shop on a weekday if you can. The place is very busy on weekends. It’s a nice luxury to take an afternoon off work and spend it having afternoon tea in the quaint village of Occoquan.
Reviewer: Betty  Add your review    

Visited: April, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose and bagged. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The afternoon tea I enjoyed at this tea room with my two girlfriends was everything I expected an elegant Victorian teatime to be. We all ordered the Queen Victoria tea which was an excellent value at $16.50 per person. There were three types of delicious tea sandwiches: chicken salad, cucumber and cream cheese, and cheese and pimento. We were also served cranberry scones with lemon curd, Devonshire cream, and fruit spreads. There were two sweet items to finish off the tea: a rich cookie type sweet with fruit filling, and a chocolate mousse tart. There were a variety of caffeinated and decaf teas to choose from. I chose Yorkshire Gold Tea and my friends had a caffeinated apricot tea. The teas were served in teapots and there was enough for several cups. I'm not sure if it was brewed from bags or loose, but it was hot and excellent. The service was perfect, with beautiful music in an elegantly decorated room. English Staffordshire china added to the charm of the beautiful place settings. I will be going back again sometime soon!
Reviewer: Northern Virginia Resident  Add your review  

Becky's Tea Café at Virginia Pantry, Powhatan, VA

Visited: April, 2008.  Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I absolutely love each visit to Becky's. Becky and Mary Anna are exceptional at making you feel welcome and comfortable like you have been invited into their home. The food is delicious and served fresh. You can tell care was taken in preparing your meal. I have had the good fortune of trying many things here and haven't been disappointed yet. I highly recommend Becky's.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Gayle 5/08 Add your review  

Visited: October, 2007.  Reviewed: October, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I just went to Becky's for the first time this past weekend. What a wonderful treat! Before the tea service began we were instructed to pick a hat and a tea cup (the selection was plentiful). The room was lovely, the  service was outstanding, and the tea and snacks were delicious. We had a fabulous time, in part because Becky and Maryanne are two of the best hostesses I've ever met. They clearly love what they do, they take pride in their products, and they make every effort to show their guests a good time. It was a very enjoyable experience and I will definitely return!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Beth, Glen Allen, Virginia Add your review  

Visited: March, 2007.  Reviewed: May, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: What a charming way to spend an afternoon. A dear friend, Liz, and I went for my birthday. We first chose our tea cup and hat. The owner, Becky, served us in grand style, brewing several pots of various teas. The food was delicious and specially prepared by Becky who is an excellent cook. My friend and I decided we would return with our husbands at another time. While Becky's is definitely worth the drive, I do wish the Tea Cafe was closer in to Richmond.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Rita Add your review   

Gourmet Briar Patch Tea Room, Prince George, VA

Visited: October, 2005.  Reviewed: October, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Poor.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: This tearoom was a very pleasant surprise in this area where there are few tearooms. The tea was prepared in a teapot but only one teabag was used, making very weak tea. This required us to purchase an additional teabag to ensure that the tea was flavorful. The staff was very friendly and made us feel welcome. The owner provided information about the food preparation and the food that was served that day. The food was delicious!! and plentiful. First came a large cranberry and almond scone. The scone could have used jam, curd and some kind of clotted cream however. It was only served with butter, so I think many customers may assume it is a biscuit. The sandwiches were open faced and topped with wonderful fillings which included a curry egg salad, baked chicken salad and cheese with sun-dried tomatoes. The tearoom was well decorated and provided a relaxed environment. I look forward to my next visit.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Sharon Williams Add your review   

Visited: June, 2005.  Reviewed: June, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: A couple fo my friends and I go to this delightful tea room about once a week to enjoy the warm wellcome we receive from Ginger and Ron. The food is all homemade and very nicely presented. The homemade breads are really wonderful.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: sheila meech Add your review   

Visited: January, 2005.  Reviewed: May, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I eat at the tea room once EVERY week. It is cozy, warm, exciting and delicious. The owners are very personable and visit with each guest unless it is extremely busy day. I look forward to my Mid Day meal all week. Would recommend this treat to everyone, male or female. ENJOY!!!! 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Dorothy Stewart Add your review   

Visited: March, 2005.  Reviewed: March, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Good. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: Although the food was good and well prepared, the atmosphere left a little to be desired. No butter/jam for scones. No salt offered. Only one decaf tea available. Service was very stilted and we never flet like they really wanted us there!
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Local tea lover Add your review   

Visited: January, 2005.  Reviewed: February, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: All the bread products were good, but very "heavy." No Devon cream and jam with the scones. The owner said if you had a group, she would provide it. Very reluctant to make my tea in the pot. (but I prevailed) Very reluctant to give us a
salt shaker. (then "borrowed" it 3 times for other customers. No finger sandwiches -
all open face. Has potential, though. Maybe they will get better and read up on
how to do a proper tea.
Would you go back? Maybe.
Reviewer: mmhl Add your review   

Visited: February, 2005.  Reviewed: February, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Experienced this shop first in Jan '05 & have returned several times for Mid-Day Tea. Conducive atmosphere for enjoying the well prepared food. The food exceeds that of a well known/popular Tea Room in Richmond,VA.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Gail G. Swineford Add your review   

Cuppa Tea Company Ltd., Richmond, VA

Visited: May, 2007.  Reviewed: May, 2007.
Meal: Private party. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I was exceptionally pleased with the service, food and tea. The owners and staff were very professional and efficient in serving our group of 12. I highly recommend Cuppa for small parties or simply a luncheon with several friends. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly faces are welcoming touches that are often hard to find now days.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Georgia Add your review   

Feathernesters Tea Room, Richmond, VA

Visited: April, 2009.  Meal: Other. Type of tea: Pyramid teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Very good service, excellent selection of deserts, tea was hot and strong but had to ask for cream. Food selection is good but no scones! No high [sic] tea.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: niryagtr5 4/09 Add your review     

The Jefferson Hotel, Richmond, VA

Visited: Before 2007.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: i visited the jefferson hotel for afternoon tea a couple of years ago, here is my assessment. i thought the food and service excellent. no dry sweets or sandwiches at all, (as another recent reviewer noted) nice extra touches to all the food, perfect strawberries and smoked salmon finger sandwiches, yum. the tea selection was limited but high quality and served perfectly. my only complaint would be i could hear vacumming coming on downstairs the entire time, i didn't mind being in the lobby, sort of took me back to a old movie, but clankin' around noise from housekeeping kind of ruined it.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: carrie in vancouver 1/08 Add your review   

Visited: June, 2005.  Reviewed: August, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Fair. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We recently visited the Jefferson for afternoon tea. We had tried several times before but found they only serve tea on certain days. We were looking forward to having a wonderful tea, we were very disappointed. The server wasn't very friendly. Our tea and food was prepared from a table on the side of the room. The sandwiches and sweets were dry from sitting out. Our tea had not been decantered causing our second cup to be so strong we couldn't drink it. 
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Patty Add your review   

Visited: April, 2005.  Reviewed: April, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The location was beautiful. I had previously read that this was in the lobby of the hotel and expected people to be walking through, but that was fine. The chairs were comfortable and the service was excellent. The sandwiches, breads and scones were good, but the sweets were rather lackluster. All in all I would defininately recommend it. The location alone is enough, especially for an afternoon with friends.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: Susan--Baltimore Add your review   

Visited: December, 2004.  Reviewed: January, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Fair. Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The Jefferson is definitely an incredible place to visit for any traveler while in Richmond. I live here and get to frequent whenever I like. The ambiance is nice but really, the area in which tea is served is in the lobby of the hotel. It is a very grand lobby but seeing travelings come in with their suitcases takes the ambiance away some. I have had tea a couple of times at the Jefferson and have found their sandwiches to be very plain and bland and their scones to be very dry. I feel they overcharge tremendously for them. The tea I savored over was wonderful though. Both times, I ordered the Richmond blend. It was very tasty. I am sorry to say that The Jefferson, even though right here in my neighborhood, is definitely not one of my favorite tea rooms.
Reviewer: Lee Add your review   

Visited: June, 2004.  Reviewed: July, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: What a beautiful setting for afternoon tea! If you are anywhere near Richmond, call and make a reservation to have tea. Every third Saturday they have a "Chocolate Lovers Tea" it was fabulous! Just wonderful. Food, tea, and service were excellent. I WILL be back.
Reviewer: Elizabeth Costanzo Add your review    

Visited: March, 2004.  Reviewed: July, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Poor. Service: Good.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: The tea is lovely, fresh, and brightly flavored. The assorted (and standard) full tea is a selection of one sandwich, pastry, scone, and sweet per person. You will find these ordinary, nothing really catches your palate. The positive experience is the hotel architecture, and the tea quality. If you are looking for the ideal experience, simply order your tea and enjoy the ambiance, skipping the lackluster food offerings. Service is better when you attend a special Teddy Bear or Chocolate Tea, offered infrequently during the year.
Reviewer: infohounds Add your review  

Olde World Tea Company, Smithfield, VA

Visited: November, 2008.  Meal: Other. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This a great little tea shop in a fun little town. Julie, the owner, greets everyone like they're family! We love everything ... she makes it all from scratch. Lunch is great soup, sandwiches, and tarts. And there are always lots of yummy desserts to choose from. There are also three featured teas each day or you can have a pot of your favorite brewed especially for you. My daughter (age 12) and her friends love to visit, as do my friends, and my mom pays a visit each time she comes to town. I would highly recommend stopping in for lunch or an afternoon treat.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Mary  11/08  Add your review 

Visited: July, 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: What a wonderful place to visit. This is a small delightful place to get away from your day and just relax over some of the best tea I've ever tasted. The owner is always there and so cheerful/sweet, you'd think you were in a 1940's film. The food is excellent too, and everything is fresh. I especially love the lemon/lime tarts with creme topping and the French Vanilla Tea.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: William Add your review 

Crest Hill Antiques & Tea Room, The Plains, VA

Visited: May, 2008.  Meal: Dessert tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The hostess Sally goes out of her way to insure that all guests are made to feel comfortable and at home. I have been here many times and have never seen anyone that wasn't having a nice time. Highly recommended.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Al Piccirillo 5/08 Add your review   

Butterfly Garden Tea Room, Virginia Beach, VA

Visited: January, 2008.  Meal: Private adults party. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: n/a. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: It is Always a wonderful experience for a group of Yogis to share their Spirits and Tea. Namaste' Jo
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Rockinmermaid84 1/08 Add your review     

The English Rose Tea Room, Virginia Beach, VA

Visited: July, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Fantasic tea; wonderful environment, quiant with beautiful table settings. Had the "Tea for two" and the broccoli cheese soup was out of this world!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Sindy 7/09 Add your review 

Visited: January, 2009.  Meal: Royal tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Excellent food and tea served in authentic English tradition. Attention to elegant details, in presentation of food and decoration. A real gem!!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Claudia from Chesapeake 2/09 Add your review 

Visited: January, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Beautiful, quaint tearoom with the most EXCELLENT service. Mom and I enjoyed lunch with a teapot each, included, salad, fruit, soup and scones. DELICIOUS, we'll be back, good value and lots of food. I really like the owner/server. Like visiting a friend, she made it her business to make us welcome and comfortable.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Nancy and Velma 2/09 Add your review 

Visited: November, 2008.  Meal: Other. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: A sweet little tea room with a well rounded selection of loose and bag teas. The lavender tea I chose was loose and was a subtle but pleasant taste. Raisin scones were served with pumpkin butter, freshly made Devonshire Cream and lemon curd. Cream of potato soup was perfectly seasoned, as was the individual size Florentine quiche. A side salad of mixed greens and blue cheese with just the right vinaigrette dressing as well as an attractive mound of fresh fruit and cream rounded out the Shari's Petite Lunch.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Debbie C. 11/08 Add your review 

Visited: November, 2008.  Meal: Cream tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I thought it was very sweet, felt like home. The tea was great and so was the scones I had, can't wait to try the afternoon tea!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Liz 11/08 Add your review 

The Madison Tea Room, Warrenton, VA

Visited: February, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Great atmosphere and service. The experience could not have been better.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Susie 2/09   Add your review  

Visited: February, 2009.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My sister and I visited this tea house today and we had the most wonderful experience. We had the The Queen Victoria which included tea (we had The Breakfast tea) tea sandiwches, homemade scone and dessert. The staff was extremely friendly and the ambiance was great. It is a 45 min drive from us, but we would definitely make the travel again.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Ivy 2/09   Add your review  

Visited: February, 2009.  Meal: Other. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Had a lovely lunch with a friend. The server was attentive and informative and she made the awesome scones.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: maryo430 2/09   Add your review   

La Petite Tea Room, Williamsburg, VA

Visited: April, 2009.  Meal: Other. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: Chilled in a glass.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I'm sorry that I didn't take advantage of the Tea Room when I was at the antique mall a few years ago. I told my husband I was taking a tea break while he continued to look through the mall. My tea break turned into a wonderful lunch. While I find it uncomfortable to eat alone, the guests at the next table and Jean were warm and outgoing and I felt at ease. Plus, the meal was outstanding - the food was prepared with love and fresh products. Was sorry my husband missed the experience.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Karen, NYC 4/09   Add your review   

Visited: October, 2005.  Reviewed: November, 2005.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We ALWAYS visit La Petite Tea Room in Williamsburg every year we are there in October. Jean Reitmeyer is an extra-ordinary person with a great passion to raise money from her proceeds for a great cause - Autistic children - she should be supported in every way. Her food is always above exceptional and served with finesse. We have also attended her "High [sic] Tea" in The White Hall Restaurant with hat and gloves and formal tea and lunch/brunch. Everything is done to perfection and the food is out of this world - this kind of quality can not be gotten just everywhere. This is a VERY SPECIAL place. Do visit when you are in Williamsburg. Call ahead if you must, but don't miss this! We love it. Atmosphere beyond description. Like stepping back in time. Each person is treated so special by Jean and her staff/help. Thanks Jean - you are the greatest. Best of luck on your mission. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Chuck and Ruth in Cincinnati Ohio   Add your review   

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: April, 2004.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good. Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: This tearoom was a nice break from the three hours I'd just spent in the antique mall where it's located. Unfortunately I wasn't able to have afternoon tea because I was told only parties can have it, and it's not just for one person. But they have some excellent and unusual sandwiches, along with even more excellent dessert. The Harney Scottish Breakfast tea was done nicely too.
Reviewer: Valarie LaBore   Add your review   

Visited: January, 2004.  Reviewed: February, 2004.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: La Petite has become a habit for me and friends. Whenever we visit Williamsburg to shop, it goes without saying our must stop spot for lunch is always La Petite. Not only is the hot tea wonderful but Jean also makes an excellent ice tea punch. We have attempted to sample everything on the menu and everything is wonderful. Jean changes it up a bit every now and then but we trust whatever she makes. We are usually planning dessert before we have completed our main meal order. Again, we are never disappointed at La Petite. Jean also has another place in Williamsburg, we haven't visited it yet, but we are looking forward to it.
Reviewer: KD   Add your review   

Visited: December, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tiny tea room has more charm and atmosphere than any I've seen. Even better, though, is the food. I enjoy lunch there often. There are sandwiches, or you can enjoy the tea sampler, and fabulous desserts, as well as a good cuppa or other delicious beverages. All homemade. Occasionally Jean, the proprietor, will have her homemade soup available. The food and service is wonderful. Everyone feels welcome there. It's a must try.
Reviewer: cndleberry  Add your review     

Visited: October, 2002
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This was my first time in a tea shop. The lady that owned the shop was very personable, which I like. Ever since then I love visiting tea shops. I have been to others since then but hers has been the best.
Reviewer: macala27@yahoo.com   Add your review      

Taste, Williamsburg, VA

Visited: Before 2008. Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: we just love this tea room! I happened upon it by accident, and have gone there ever since. It is cozy, the food is generous and above average. The service is friendly and makes you feel at home. It is feminine yet also male-friendly (even my husband likes going there even though the decor is very lad-like).  Location is a bit off the beaten track but worth the trip. The best tea in Williamsburg!
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: pierette logan 2/09  Add your review   

Visited: July, 2007.  Reviewed: September, 2007.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: This tea room has the best food out of any tea room I've ever been to. The tea was exceptional and so was the service. If you're in the area I recommend this tea room.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: cabutler123  Add your review   

Visited: April, 2006.  Reviewed: April, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I have been to Taste a number of times in the past 18 months and I am always so pleased. It doesn’t matter if I visit with my best friend or half my family; they always make us feel so special. Most recently five of us came from Richmond. On the drive down I kept talking about their wonderful carrot soup. The soup served was different and yet a wonderful roasted cauliflower and potato recipe that has become my newest favorite. We all had such a wonderful experience. My cousin tried a Jasmine tea. It was wonderful. We all got to watch each hand rolled pearl tea leaf open. The scent and flavor was very tranquil and taste superb. Four of us are between the ages of 45 and 65 and have all visited for tea at quite a number of Tea Shops. Taste is definitely one of our favorites. Our other guest was my eight year old niece. She felt like princess for the day. Our Taste hostesses prepared a very special child’s tea and you knew these wonderful ladies know exactly what the young ones like all served on a special butterfly plate. Peanut butter and jelly finger sandwiches, fresh grapes and apple slices, gold fish, jello and sugar cookies and her choice of chocolate milk, lemonade or hot tea served in a special miniature tea pot. My niece decided on the recommended Hannah tea, a very special fruity blend fit for our princess. Every time I visit Taste I enjoy the fresh savory sandwiches and tarts, the worlds smallest BLT and such wonderful sweets, cream brule, pound cake and little chocolate puffs on my own two tiered serving tray. Our day was made even more special with one of my Mothers favorite flowers, lilac blossoms on our table. I continue to find Taste to be clean and friendly with freshly prepared food and well worth my drive from Richmond.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Teresa Faber  Add your review   

Visited: October, 2005.  Reviewed: November, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: While on a mini vacation in Williamsburg we were lucky enough to find this jewel of a tearoom. It was recommended to us by other merchants in their little village. All the shops were lovely, we enjoyed walking around the area. We decided to try Taste since it had been recommended so highly. We were so glad we did, it was the highlight of our trip. From our first step into the shop we felt a warm and friendly welcome. The owners and their staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. The store is divided half for their tea area and the other side for their gifts which are very unique. You can tell how much time and care is taken in their selections of gift items. Never have any of us had a better tea experience. The food, the soft inviting music, the sound of rain coming from their fountain and the
beauty of the store in general. We hope to return to Williamsburg, we will definately make Taste a regular stop.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Lynn & friends  Add your review   

Visited: September, 2005.  Reviewed: September, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tea room is the epitome of what I have always expected a tea room (of the British tradition) to be like. I found the service to be excellent. The staff was excellent. And the food ... well the food was beyond excellent. I can't think when I have had such a gastronomically delightful day. My sister and I visited for our birthdays and we could not have possible given ourselves a better gift. There are other tea rooms in the Williamsburg area, but I am very afraid that they will not be able to meet the standards of Taste, Tea Salon and gifts. I certainly hope to visit this tea room again and again. I had the Royal tea and enjoyed every morsel and every drop. This tea room gives you the ambiance, and the pampering that all of us deserve from time to time. I would suggest, and have done so, this tea room to anyone and everyone who truly likes tea.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: evelyn b.  Add your review   

Visited: April, 2005.  Reviewed: April, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Wow, what a dream tea! My husband and I were visiting and made a point to stop in for tea based on reviews I had seen. It was lovely. The food, tea, service, ambiance was terrific. I can't say enough good things about it.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: ann  Add your review   

Visited: September, 2004.  Reviewed: October, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I think the name of the tea that we had was "the Royal Tea." It was wonderful! The owner of the tearoom was delightful. My husband and I had a great time. The atmosphere was lovely and so many pretty items to buy. I highly recommend it.
Reviewer: Harriet Shrader  Add your review   

Visited: May, 2004.  Reviewed: May, 2004.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We found Taste by using the Internet. Reviews published by other patrons caught our attention so we chose to come. After having afternoon tea there, I knew I had to add my highest recommendations so others would go and enjoy the most exquisite experience in food, service, ambiance and shopping. My out of town family was thrilled. It was by far the best tea house we have ever gone to, and we will certainly go back.
Reviewer: A pampered patron  Add your review   

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: April, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tearoom should have "extremely excellent" for its comments. If you wonder why the name of the shop is Taste, it's because of all the wonderful tastes of food that is brought to you. A small bowl of soup, also wonderful, is brought in adorable little dishes. There was so much food and desserts I wasn't able to finish it, but I forced myself. My friend and I couldn't decide which dessert was best, the family-recipe cheesecake, or the crème brulée. This tearoom is an oasis in a small shopping mall. It's so beautiful and relaxing, I wish it were closer to me on the west coast so I could make it a regular stop.
Reviewer: Valarie LaBore  Add your review   

Visited: April, 2004.  Reviewed: April, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We decided to visit Taste with friends after seeing the reviews on your site and we were not disappointed. We were warmly greeted and shown to our table. All of the tables were covered with French tablecloths, white linen overlays, and assorted china. There were fresh spring daffodils on each table. The tea list offered a selection of loose teas that would please any tea lover. We all chose to have Royal Teas. There was a nice added touch that day, a course of the most delicious Thai carrot soup. We were told that a soup course is not offered with tea everyday. We felt very lucky to be there on the right day. We could not say enough about the tea, food, and presentation. The best we have experienced.
The owner was very knowledgeable about the teas offered in their gift area. We purchased some French teas and French pink champagne biscuits to enjoy when we returned home. We are looking forward to our next visit to Williamsburg and tea at Taste. A+++
Reviewer: Elizabeth and Robert  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: Excellent.
Comments: If you are anywhere within the Williamsburg, Virginia area, you should not miss afternoon tea at TASTE. The service was beyond excellent. My husband and I had the "royal tea," which is full tea plus a glass of sparkling pear beverage. First came a delicious scone, followed by numerous tea sandwiches and small quiches. They were all absolutely delicious and freshly made. The "sweets" were also numerous and included cold strawberry soup and crème brûlée!  Everything was mouth-watering! The shop carries lotions, teas, teapots, books about tea, and other little boutique-type items. On a scale of 1 to 100, we rate TASTE about 120!!!!
Reviewer: Vinny and Judi Mobilio  Add your review   

Visited: October, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I have to agree with all the previous reviews. The food and tea were excellent as was the ambiance. I will definitely plan to return.
Reviewer: Ann S.  Add your review   

Visited: June, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: There are tea rooms and then there is Taste. They do know how it is done. The food is unusually good -- not just bland sandwiches. They are imaginative in the menu, décor, tea service, and shop. They pay close attention to detail and it shows. They are Diana Dean, Cherri Fiorenza, and Lillian Croft, sisters and mother. They have lots of experience in food and good service -- proper service. The tea service is outstanding and hard to find. I hope they continue to have great success because we are fortunate to have a tea room of this caliber in Virginia. My husband and I travel in England, France, Scotland, and New York, and have not found any better. The ladies are very helpful and will share their experience with the customer.
Reviewer: www.tealadyofva.com  Add your review   

Visited: June, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I had the unexpected delight of visiting the Taste Tea Salon while traveling to Williamsburg on business. One word can describe the experience ... impeccable! The food, quality of the tea selection, service, presentation and atmosphere were WONDERFUL! I also had the pleasure of speaking with Cherri Fiorenza, one of the owners, who was gracious, informative, and welcoming. The gift shop was full of unexpected treasures. Every little detail at the Taste Tea Salon has been taken into account... from the lemon curd down to the beautiful bathroom ... yes I said bathroom. The Taste Tea Salon is a gem!! 
Reviewer: Tammy Dobradenka  Add your review   

Visited: May, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The Taste tea room is a wonderful experience. My husband and I went there on our honeymoon. It was the perfect addition to our memories. We highly recommend it. 
Reviewer: mrs J Jones  Add your review   

Visited: December, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Not Your Average Tea Room: Enter a different world. The front door beckons and cheerful pastel colors surround you as the pleasing sound of falling water from a real fountain soothes your ears. Welcome to TASTE, a tea room of a different sort. The floor is tiled in crisp black and white. To your right as you enter, an array of brightly colored tables meets your eye as you step through a wrought iron trellis into the dining area. Each table is set with exquisite colorful linens, each with a different yet complementing china pattern and accessories including fresh flowers. The atmosphere, anything but stuffy. My wife Jane and I recently discovered this charming salon with European flair on our annual pilgrimage to Williamsburg for the Grand Illumination held the first weekend of December each year. 
We were warmly greeted by Cherri Fiorenza, one of TASTE's owners, and shown to our table. Here you are free to shed your cares and relax from the daily grind in a truly comfortable chair -- a rarity in many of today's restaurants. My wife and I have enjoyed teas in many venues from the casual to the formal, from the Ritz and the Hay Adams in Washington, DC to quiet inns in the English countryside, but among them all I would have to rate this as one of the best. Allow me to elaborate ... 
We tried unsuccessfully to focus on the bill of fare presented to us by Lillian Croft, the owner's mother, for our selection of teas. What made this so difficult was that the other side of the shop is filled with all manner of delights for the eye -- so much so, in fact, that one is tempted to forego the tea for a moment just so one can browse a bit. But let me assure you, the tea really is worth denying yourself the temptations from the retail side of the establishment -- at least for the moment.
We each opted for the Royal Afternoon Tea which begins with a Pear Sparkler served in a chilled champagne flute -- quite refreshing and not too sweet. For our tea selections Jane chose Queen Catherine's Blend, and I chose Black Currant, both by Harney & Sons. They also offer teas by Rishi and an assortment of French teas -- all available to try with your afternoon tea. The owners, Diana Dean and Cherri Fiorenza, have not only spent considerable time on the aesthetics of the tea room, but have also devoted quite a bit to the science behind each cup they serve. Each tea is steeped for a specified length of time to produce the best flavor for that particular type of tea. The teas are served in innovative clear glass teapots which allow the infuser to be completely withdrawn from the tea once it has steeped for the required length of time. This prevents your second and third cups from steeping too long and also allows you to refresh your pot and re-steep your leaves. As Diane explained to me, many teas taste even better after the leaves have been steeped several times. But I digress ...
With your tea comes the first course -- bite-sized homemade scones of such lightness and delicacy that my mouth waters now just thinking of them. They are baked fresh daily and served with Devonshire cream, homemade lemon curd -- one of Cheri's specialties -- and strawberry jam in three petite bowls. The scone recipes change daily and include such favorites and innovations as apricot, blueberry, black currant, and oatmeal. All are superb!
From scones we moved on to savories and tea sandwiches -- all artfully prepared and presented -- served on multi-tiered trays, one for each of us. The savories included everything from miniature quiches in a variety of tempting flavors, to tiny Virginia ham and cheese biscuits, to asparagus and Parmesan cheese in a flaky pastry shell. These were paired with a quite splendid selection of tea sandwiches: curried chicken salad, shrimp salad, egg salad, smoked salmon and cucumber, and the traditional watercress, all served on different breads and garnished with touches of dill and sun-dried tomato and homemade pesto. Each miniature creation was a pleasant surprise for our palates.
Our tea finished in fine style with a selection of exquisite desserts. Mouthwatering shortbreads, miniature tartlets with fresh kiwi and strawberries, and tiny éclairs stuffed with mascarpone cheese and topped with dark chocolate tempted the eye as well as the taste buds. As I love my wife very much I even surrendered my petite cup of dark chocolate filled with raspberry mousse and topped by a single perfect raspberry. I think she'll keep me. Our final course was supplemented with a second pot of tea -- it really does taste better the second time around!
Having satisfied all our cravings -- at least for the moment -- we proceeded to take a turn around the retail side of the shop. As one would expect, the proprietors of TASTE have overlooked no details here either. They not only offer a fine selection of teas and tea accessories, but an astonishing array of whimsical gifts and items to pamper the most demanding soul. With great reluctance we finally bid Cherri and Diane adieu, although we will most certainly return. Added to the delights of Colonial Williamsburg decorated for the holidays, we can now always anticipate a delightful afternoon at TASTE as part of our annual tradition. If you find yourself in the Tidewater area of Virginia, TASTE is well worth the trip.
Reviewer: William Phenix  Add your review