Among the cacti landscape and Southwest influences, there exists a reserved spot for vintage elegance and English roots. Chantilly Tea Room & Gift Boutique charms and delights Tucsonans with homemade recipes, chef salads and soups, and most enjoyably, an assortment of divine teas and specialty pastries.
Much like how sharing a cup of coffee is a morning vice and culture, drinking afternoon tea is a ritual, as loved by the owner and creator of Chantilly Tea Room, Tamara Read. But it is the adoration and history of tea that truly define this tea room, as well as the camaraderie and friendship that a cup of soul-warming tea and delectable desserts inspire.
The Chantilly Tea Room excites tea enthusiasts with black, white, green, herbal, fruit and rooibos, Pu’erh, and Oolong teas. Sip Rose of Venice, exotic black teas infused with a rose peach taste and rose buds; or treat your taste buds to the Kyoto Cherry Rose, a blend of high quality green tea with sweet cherry and morning rose flavor – all poured for drinking pleasure in a beautiful, antique cup. The tea room will accomodate any tea preference and liking, considering there are 48 different splendid teas to choose from that are all rich with flavor and steamed to perfection.
Although the Chantilly Tea Room serves a breakfast (think Apple Breakfast Lasagna) and pleasing lunch menu, reservations are also encouraged for Afternoon Teas, in which groups of ladies can celebrate and enjoy good company. Reserve the Victorian Tea, which serves tea sandwiches, scones with preserves, Devonshire cream and lemon curd; or plan the 4-course Queen High’s Tea, served for those with more of an appetite, that includes additionally a warm bowl of soup, crisp chef salad and a variety of sweets and treats. Groups can decide among eight different Afternoon Teas, and each event promises a hot pot of tea for sharing.
The Chantilly Tea Room also promotes special occasions and plans events for celebrations such as bridal or baby showers, birthdays, graduations, and retirement. Youngsters are also not forgotten. Mothers and young daughters are always invited to dress-up and join in on the Mad Hatter’s Tea. Ham, peanut butter and jelly, strawberry cream, or a cucumber sandwich is paired with a scone, treat, fruit, and either hot chocolate or raspberry lemonade.
Parties can book in advance for their occasion in the Parlor, Bayberry or Rose room or outdoor Secret Garden patio. The Chantilly Room boasts a beautiful ambience “decorated with wooden floors, muted floral colors [and] features an antique mantel fireplace.” The delicate and refined atmosphere, antique china and lovely linens create an aura perfect for ladies who lunch.
Whether you are visiting the Chantilly Tea Room while hosting out-of-town company or planned in advance to celebrate a joyous occasion, guests are guided through the gift boutique before being seated in this Victorian tea room. Then after browsing and shopping, guests are lead to their table to experience “the elegance and soothing of the soul that accompanies this delightful ritual.” Gather girlfriends or treat your daughter to all the pleasures that experiencing tea ignites.
Chantilly Tea Room & Gift Boutique, 520.622.3303, http://www.chantillytearoom.com/.
