Review: Tea Leaves & Thyme

If you’ve driven by, noticed the sign in the front and thought, that looks like a nice place for lunch, but haven’t gotten the chance to go in, then you can understand my intrigue with the establishment. This is definitely a venue for lunch and afternoon tea. This is a place where you can take a deep breath, slow down the pace of your day and enjoy dainty, delicate dining. Reservations are encouraged, but if your decision is “spur of the moment,” I am sure they would be happy to accommodate you and your party.

And now that I mentioned, “party,” is a delightful place to celebrate a special occasion with friends. While I did see one gentleman in the company of several fashionable ladies, it is, however, an environment conducive to big Sunday hats, frilly dresses and sticking your pinky finger straight out as you sip your tea. The atmosphere is cheery, bright with tinkling music in the background—soothing. The hostess instantly makes you feel at home and the service is exceptionally attentive and friendly, not stuffy.

The menu is marked by quality over quantity with items that contribute to an appealing range of choices. Four appetizers are offered including Curry Almond Rolls ($4.95), Sun Dried Tomato and Roasted Pecan Soup ($3) and a Soup du jour ($3). Seven easily managed entrees that include a tantalizing Crab Quiche ($9.25), a Savory Tartlet Platter: Italian cheeses, spices and sun-dried tomatoes baked in a sweet
shell and served with the House Salad with Scones (7.95) and another dish that waved at me from the menu—the Pinwheel: Smoked turkey breast, baked ham, herbed cream cheese, Provolone cheese and leaf lettuce rolled in soft Armenian bread and served with the House Salad and Scones.

I chose one of the specials of the day—the Crab Cakes served with House Salad and Scones (10.95), and a tall frosty glass of Peach Iced Tea ($1.95). The crab cakes were straightforward and delicious, huge lumps of back fin meat, unadulterated by filler and unnecessary spices. The House Salad was a lovely mélange fresh greens, lightly dressed with a creamy vinaigrette. Three warm delicate scones were served with lemon curd and an Amaretto cream. I love lemon curd. It reminds me of a fresh, bright day in spring when all is right with the world.

I enjoyed a little dessert—a lemon bar ($1.95) the size of a petit four—just enough to satisfy the sweet tooth at the end of a meal. The portion size was perfect for me, and the prices are quite reasonable. Aside from the pleasant atmosphere, the gift shop has plenty of eye candy (gifts) and a large supply of loose teas to enjoy at home. Tea Leaves & Thyme is available for private parties, rehearsal dinners and any other type of memories you wish to make.

Next time I’ll wear a big hat with a lovely flower. I’ll fit right in.