Ann Richardson, Lafayette Hill
User's reviews
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A Taste of Britain
Where do I start? I always enjoy going to new tearooms and give the benefit of the doubt. However, this was the worst tea experience I have ever had. From the beginning, I was not impressed with the aura of the tearoom itself. No linen tablecloths or linene napkins (paper napkins are used), no flowers or even silverware on the table. We had to chase flies (I know they are in and out with outside seating but still) and even had to kill a yellow jacket who was bothering our table. Our tea came overbrewed with the leaves left in the pots so was unpalatable to drink especially for a second cup. Our waitress completely disappeared after delivering our food; we didn't even have a fork or knife to use on the scones or mini desserts! Speaking of the scones, both the buttermilk and the raisin were very overdone; we thought the raisin had both sultanas and regular raisins but it was just the raisins burnt on the outside. Chicken salad on the tea sandwiches was very unappealing (tasted old, cheddar cheese sandwiches were dry, the roast beef was ok even cream cheese with olives wasn't very tasty. The mini desserts were not very tasty either: two brownie bites which were dry, some kind of shortbreads and two petit fours with oozing icing. All in all, a very disappointing experience. My friend and I actually went and had a snack down the road as we certainly were filled and satisfied with our meals. For $18.00 per person, I truly felt cheated.
Tearoom response:
I’m sorry to hear you had such a bad experience. Your visit was before I took over the shop. I think the previous owner normally did a wonderful job, so maybe you just came on an off day. Regardless, we have made a few changes in 2012 that do address some of your concerns. We now have linen napkins and are setting the table with silverware, and I try my best to keep fresh flowers in all the vases. Our raisin scones actually do have both regular and golden raisins, but it’s our job to make sure they’re not overcooked for you. Again, I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy your visit, but I hope you will try us again.