Serenity Tea Garden is housed in a renovated antique home in Southern West Palm Beach. The first thing that I found appealing was that it has its own (free) parking lot which made the usual shark hunt for a space unnecessary. We were able to park leisurely and stroll in unstressed.
Before being shown to our table, we asked if we could wander around. In one corner, we discovered a red British phone booth that housed a tea and crystal set. A back room that would be perfect for a party, held a tree-like decoration that formed a shady umbrella over the table. Walking through the rooms, you could envision a family living in this home during another time. The wooden floors gave an occasional creak, and while taking a picture, we noticed that the floor of one of the rooms bowed down slightly. Instead of detracting from the experience, these characteristics added charm and a feeling of authenticity to the atmosphere.
The staff was friendly and accommodating. We perused the tea selection while we settled in. Michelle got a pot of fragrant black vanilla tea, while I opted for a sweet peach iced tea. Both were delicious. While we chatted, we pointed out the many adorable details to one another. Hats decorated the chairs, teacups dangled in a row over one of the doors, and art work for sale hung on the walls. The curtains were swept back and hooked over crystal doorknobs. In the bathroom, there was a porcelain sink with a two handled faucet, and the tub was artfully arranged with books, an antique iron, and other trappings. An old fashioned mail box was open to reveal different types of hand soap.
Our high tea started with a choice of soup served in dainty bowls. Next came the lovely tiered tray full of goodies. Two scones with a side of strawberry preserves, clotted cream, and lemon curd were on the first tray. We were instructed on the “perfect bite” technique, where every bite has a bit of each of the three flavors. I heartily approved of this strategy and had to ask for a second helping of the toppings, which were cordially provided. The scones were cool and a bit dry, so the accoutrements helped, but we would have been even more pleased if the scones came out fresh and warm.
The second tier contained the usual selection of finger sandwiches. We found tuna, egg, chicken salad, tomato and herb, and a cucumber sandwich, all of which were enjoyable. The final tray contained a generous selection of dessert delicacies. These ranged from a scrumptious bite of chocolate cheesecake to a more ordinary tasting red velvet cupcake. We also enjoyed a yummy custard filled pastry puff and a small éclair.
On our way out, we lingered in the lobby and asked the staff to snap a few more pictures of us, which they happily accommodated. As we said goodbye to the charming little tea shop and exited, we marveled at one last detail: little teapots carved into the entrance gate and stenciled around the woodwork of the windows.
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On our way out, we lingered in the lobby and asked the staff to snap a few more pictures of us, which they happily accommodated. As we said goodbye to the charming little tea shop and exited, we marveled at one last detail: little teapots carved into the entrance gate and stenciled around the woodwork of the windows.
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