English Tea Room

Covington: 734 E Rutland St. 985-898-3988. Map.
Casual.
AE MC V
Website

WHY IT'S NOTEWORTHY
Opened by a couple that's mad about everything British, this charming cottage in the old part of Covington lives up to its name. The service of tea is taken very seriously, and the civilized environment we associate with that ritual is here in full measure. Beyond teas, scones, and the like, you can also get a good light lunch of sandwiches, salads, soups, quiches, and a few other things. They also offer a true high tea--a more substantial thing than afternoon tea, meant for working people. At $27 per person, it can take up your entire afternoon.

WHAT'S GOOD
Instead of lunch and dinner they serve lunch and afternoon tea. The menu for the former is brief, light but elegantly presented. The latter is a British institution, usually found only in expensive hotels here (and not often even in those). The Tea Room has a wide range of teas, including many herbal varieties, accompanied by scones, lemon curd, jam, and little sandwiches.

BACKSTORY
Owners Jan and Tim Lantrip opened the Tea Room first in Hammond, then relocated it to Covington in 2004. It has always functioned nearly as much as an antique shop and retail tea shop as a cafe, and indeed the place is surrounded by other antique shops.

DINING ROOM
There's no mistaking the British aspect. The Union Jack is everywhere, an old London cab is outside, and the entire menu makes references to the Queen and all that jolly rot. All this is inside a prettily renovated cottage.

ESSENTIAL DISHES
Tea with crumpets, scones, or biscuits
Windsor high tea (sandwiches, quiches, cakes, strawberries, etc)
Chicken salad
Tuna salad
Chef's salad
Quiche of the day
Ploughman's lunch (cheese, bread, and a salad)
Soup and sandwich combinations (there are several)
Strawberry shortcake scones
Chai cake (made with tea and spices)

FOR BEST RESULTS
If you've never experienced an English afternoon tea, as the server to explain how it all works. The ritual is almost as important as the food and drink. This is not a place to come if you're really hungry.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT
I wish they were open on Monday, the day I always think of going there.

FACTORS OTHER THAN FOOD
Up to three points, positive or negative, for these characteristics. Absence of points denotes average performance in the matter.

Dining Environment +1

Consistency +1

Service+1

Value +1

Attitude +2

Wine & Bar

Hipness -1

Local Color +2

 

SPECIAL ATTRIBUTES

• Romantic
• Good for business meetings
• 8-25
• Open all afternoon
• Quick, good meal
• Good for children
• Easy, nearby parking
• Reservations accepted

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