If you've read any of my reviews, you know I'm a sinensophile!! A tea lover!! So whenever I visit a…read morenew city or town, I check for tearooms in the area! I'm so ecstatic that when my fellow Yelper and I visited Beaufort recently, we found this adorable tearoom and gift shop! The bright pink teapot sign welcomes you with a cheerful foreglimpse of what's inside! You can almost imagine Anne (with an "e") wandering about in the beautiful garden or languishing under the white archway studying the chirping birds! It's a serene, inviting scene. We tiptoed onto the wide porch, opened the pink doors, and entered a wonderland of tea paradise. The spacious and lovely displayed gift shop offers a wide selection of tea accoutrements, including a pretty floral electric teapot that caught my eye! Children's tea sets and toys were in one area, teapots, tea caddies, tea cozies, tea cups and tea strainers were gathered and organized in displays throughout the store. Among the beautiful tea things, were other antiques, kitchenware, linens, jewelry and unique gifts. We met the gracious owner, Libby, who when we called about the hours, said she was about to close, but waited for us to arrive!! We were thrilled by her warm welcome and accommodating spirit. She showed us around, allowed us to meander through the shop as she prepared our tea! She guided us thru a small cove filled with gleaming canisters of teas and let us chose our favorites. There were so many, it was hard to pick just one, so she let us pick two! In that little nook, was also a case brimming with exquisite chocolates, fudge and other treats. (I purchased some of the candies and they were amazing!) That cove led to a doorway which opened up into a breathtaking tearoom! It was gorgeous! One table had an Asian flair, with a little bistro table appointed with a fabulous black lacquered screen and a hanging Chinese paper lantern. Another area was set in front of a fireplace with cozy Queen Anne wing chairs and English lace. Yet another was nestled between an antique bureau bedecked with vintage hats and a charming green vanity. This table was in front of a big picture window where one could look out over the garden and see the birds at the feeders. In the middle of the room was an elegant table covered with Battenburg lace and designed for larger parties. Above the table hung a a couple of festive crystal chandeliers that the owner told us she sometimes changes with the seasons. And to the left of that table was an impressive old wooden piano that added warmth to this enchanting tearoom. Our sweet smaller, round table was positioned closer up front, with appealing cane chairs at both ends. We soaked up every detail of this alluring room... we loved the grapevine borders, the hues of sage green and soft lavender, the vintage plates on the walls, the antique furniture, lamps & mirrors, the intricate Oriental rug, and the delicate lady figurine tea caddies that graced every table. We were enthralled with the place! Libby came and served our tea and treats. Her menu is limited to just a couple of items, scones, cakes and cheese straws, some sweet and savory choices, but she may add some other items in the future. We were satisfied with our snacks. The teas were the highlight here! I had a pot of Green Gables Earl Grey and another pot of a delicious Chocolate Peppermint Kiss. My friend had the Ginger Peach Black/Green tea blend. We each bought several ounces of the loose teas to take home, including one called Just Peachy! "I never heard of company going home without tea!" Anne said to Diana when they had tea! And at least we didn't have any raspberry cordial! Some of Libby's teas were named for Green Gables characters and I wanted to try the Marilla White Tea! Next time! Due to zoning restrictions and kitchen limitations, Libby serves her teas in plastic crystal-like cups. While we were initially curious as to the reason for this unconventional serving ware, we were totally empathetic when Libby explained her plight. And let me just say, the tea tastes just a wonderful in these cups! She does allow, however, customers to brings their own china teacups for in-house use! As we sipped and talked, Libby kept us entertained with her stories of the area, her business ventures and her knowledge of teas. We left with our hearts warmed, our tummies contented, and our yearning for tea satiated. We also left with bundles of antiques, gifts and teas and a promise to keep in touch with our newfound kindred spirit!

The previous yelper pretty much covered everything. I do have to agree with being served tea with…read moreplastic tea cups was very unsettling for me. It was my cup that sprung a leak as she poured. When she said "that happens sometimes', I instantly thought "the first time should have been the last". Never in all my tea room visits have I been served tea in plastic tea cups, or the spreads in plastic cups. Or scones on plastic plates. Or plastic utensils or paper napkins! If it wasn't for the sweetness of the owner and the overall charm of this place, it definitely would only rate one star. Being the only customers at this time we were seated at a lovely table for two next to the fireplace. Nice ambiance. We ordered tea & the blue berry scone. The scone arrived warm and delicious. As we ate I enjoyed watching the cardinals that came to the window bird feeders. After tea, we perused the gift shop where I purchased a few items. She carries a nice selection of gift items: tea wallets, & cozies. Children's tea sets, antiques, costume jewelry. She also carries a series (2 in series so far) of chapter books by a local author for children. (each copy is signed by author) I purchased both for my daughter which she started reading & loves. When my sister mentioned that we were celebrating my birthday, the owner gave me a special birthday treat: a white porcelain bird. So be sure to mention if it is your special day!