Sweet Tea Cafe — Restaurant in DeLand

Summer's hot breath may be upon us, but the Sweet Tea Cafe is always in season for a unique dining experience, excellent service and an atmosphere right out of a Jane Austen novel. The vibe is Victorian, but unlike Austen -- never recognized as a writer in her own lifetime -- Loretta, Sweet Tea's proprietor, is getting rave reviews from those in the know.

Reservations are required, the bill runs around $25 with tip and the experience is second to none. Loretta and her daughter do all the serving, from-scratch cooking and cleanup and what a great job at that. Even with a house full of guests, service is quick and efficient. The most important ingredient, however, might be the genuine hospitality they offer diners.

I didn't think it was possible for frou-frou finger sandwiches to fill me up (Americans are such gluttons!). Trust me, you won't leave hungry. Both times we've met there, the group happily departed with ample leftovers.

To be clear, "high tea" is a working class evening meal in the UK, but delicious is delicious and the afternoon tea served here is all that and more. As a concession to the impending heat wave, a recent visit began with peachy iced tea. Throughout lunch a wide variety of exotic hot teas were also enjoyed by all in the cool, comfortable, historic Victorian that houses the Sweet Tea Cafe near downtown DeLand.

First comes freshly baked scones (if you're lucky it will be the blueberry-lemon), accompanied by clotted cream and a yummy jam. Next is a choice of soups that might include savory tomato basil or a tangy carrot concoction. The "pièce de résistance" is the three-tiered afternoon tea stand, loaded with finger sandwiches and topped by dessert samplings.

Sandwiches typically include cucumber and watercress, mini-croissants bursting with chicken salad and a tasty pimento cheese. Southerners know their pimento and this recipe does not disappoint. Desserts might include hummingbird cake or giant, chocolate-dipped strawberries.

The table place settings and beautiful china harken back to a more civilized era in society, when people took time not only to eat together, but to also thoroughly enjoy each others' company.

And guys, with Mother's Day quickly approaching this is an idea that is sure to earn points with even the most discerning in-laws. Who knows, for Father's Day maybe he'd enjoy a little pampering too.

Priceless. But don't forget to wear your hats. Gloves are optional until "winter" rolls...

I always love coming here when I am visiting from South Dakota. The atmosphere is friendly and accommodating for various occasions and bigger parties. The owner is very nice and frequents the table consistently and is very efficient, making sure everyone is happy with their options. The price is the best I've ever seen for a high tea, especially with all that you get for a high tea experience. You will not be disappointed with the ever changing selection to choose from, as well as you will not go hungry when you leave this establishment. The owner puts a lot of thought and love into each beverage and food items that she bakes and that is put on trays, it absolutely reflects in the taste of the items. Congrats on the new location and please keep up all the wonderful and hard work you put into this beautiful dream of yours! I look forward to trying your new location on my next...

I took my friend here for her birthday and it was amazing! I love the new location, it’s cozy and so immersive in the experience. There is soothing music playing, a candle burning and enough decor to keep your eyes busy throughout your entire visit. That’s all before the food and tea arrive! The host immediately brings you a tea of choice, and I have never had a tea I didn’t enjoy. The food is amazing. Everything is handmade and extremely delicious. You can tell the owner puts extreme attention to detail on everything she does and has immense pride in her product. You need reservations which are easily made online. Highly...