At your scheduled time, which was 630 for us, they ring a bell and you head down the hallway and greeted and taken to your room. We were in the Pemberly room. They close it off with curtains so you have your own private area and it was so nice! Turned off our cell phones and had a nice relaxing hour and a half conversation with lots of laughter and reminiscing. They brought out the three tier platter, 1st teir is the savories, 2nd tier is the bread and 3rd is desserts. The Hong Kong salad that was a perfect size, the cucumber avocado tea sandwich was just the perfect bite, the meatloaf sandwich had an onion jam with bacon and a hint of spice that was just right, then we moved on to the meatball and potato skewer which had spices that made us want more. Lastly was the fluff pastry with the brie and apricot inside. It was a great ending to the 1st flight. Moving on to the scone and ube milk bread. The scone with clotted cream and blood orange curd was the perfect combination of sweetness and that ube bread was so fluffy. 3rd and last flight was the dessert flight. Those desserts were excellent. My absolute favorite was the mocha hazelnut dacquoise. The cookie was crispy on the outside with a chewy center which the perfect dollop of hazelnut spread on top, chefs kiss! The Italian rum panna cotta with salted caramel was my second favorite and I dont even like custard like textures, but that flavor was out of this world! The rhubarb gooseberry tart was my least favorite. It was a little too tart (haha) for liking. Our server Elijah was absolutely amazing and kind. We have a friend coming from out of town next week and and have another reservation to bring her. We had such a nice relaxing evening this evening. Thank you for a...
Read moreSt James Tea Room has been a tradition for my family, even though prices have doubled from $25 to $46 per person. Nothing has changed to justify the increase as far as the food/service but they moved locations. The location is intimate, cozy and relaxing. The food is always flavorful and pleasing to the eye. The various tea options are fantastic and how they pair the tea is wonderful. The staff is always friendly and attentive. The only continuous issue is the attention to detail when it comes to special occasions and the details on the table. For example, I wanted to spend some time with a friend that lost a loved one. The details on the table should’ve been “In Loving Memory...” which the card on the table did read but decorations were Happy Birthday and when the hostess came in, she was cheerful and made reference to a fun celebration. It was awkward and uncomfortable when she realized that this was not a celebration. On another occasion, I wanted to celebrate an anniversary with my significant other and the card on the table had a congratulations for me and another name that was not my guest, again.... awkward. If they offer an alcoholic beverage like a hot toddy, be prepared to show an ID regardless of your age or your guests age. On one occasion my guest was elderly and did not have ID with her. They brought out one hot toddy for me but not my guest. Obviously I wasn’t going to enjoy this without my guest so I asked them to take it away. Later they came back with another but we were both already full and no longer looking forward to enjoying that treat. Will I be back, of course but I’ve come to realize that some details will be overlooked and will need to make extra effort to call a few times and make sure they...
Read moreAfter hearing others rave about the St. James Tea Room, I finally see why. From the moment I walked in, it felt like the atmosphere laid a blanket of peace around my shoulders.
The staff was competent and calm. They spoke softly, but clearly. They lead confidentiality, waited patiently, and interjected smoothly.
Our server was Belle. She welcomed us and gathered information about our party, which she referenced later flawlessly (as though she had known us for years.) She detailed the monthly menu like it has never changed, answered our questions, and clarified changes to the menu made due to my nut allergy. She was warm, friendly, and had exceptional timing.
The food was well balanced and flavorful. Each tea complimented the food perfectly. Variations for allergies did not detract from the quality or flavor of the food.
We were in the Lea Hurst room, which was full of sunlight and lovely flower patterns. Seating was available in pairs (via settee) and individual chair, to maximize options for preference and comfort.
The gift shop was lovely, though a bit cramped with several other groups. Again, staff was unobtrusive until needed, then immediately available.
Having been enamored with one of the teas from the menu, I purchased some to bring home. Tea prices are extremely reasonable, if you are accustomed to purchasing quality loose leaf tea. Packaging includes appropriate temperature & time for brewing, as well as most compatible sweetener.
I am dealing with especially stressful situations both at work and at home. The combination of good friends, good food, and serene atmosphere was a much needed balm for my soul.
Reservations fill up quickly, so I have booked for...
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