Olde Towne Grainery TeaRoom & Galleria

Are you looking for something special to do this Christmas season? Plan to visit the Old Towne Grainery TeaRoom & Galleria. It is on the second floor of Mt Vernon's Grainery, just north of the Transit Center. The spacious dining area can accommodate small or large groups. When I was there last week with my friends Joan and Karen, we had the TeaRoom to ourselves. But earlier in the day the place was bursting with Red Hat ladies and a large group of gals from a local Bible study.

I was surprised by the long list of teas available, many I had not heard of before. I chose Haiku, a subtle and satisfying blend of white tea and peach.We each ordered the Cream Tea, which included two large scones, lemon curd and Devonshire cream with our bottomless pots of tea. It was $8 a person, with menu selections ranging from $8 per person to $35 for Tea for Two. With a la carte items on the menu as well, there is much to choose from for lunch or tea. Even from our limited experience, I'd say you are sure to find something to delight you from their kitchen.

We had an opportunity to meet both Sharon and George Eldridge, who opened the tea room a year  ago. They are gracious and friendly. Sharon told us that she had never made scones until they opened the tea room. Well, she can certainly add "Scone maker extraordinaire" to her resume!

It is clear that the Eldridges also love antiques and artwork. When the elevator to the shop opens on the second floor, you find yourself in a gallery which continues throughout the establishment, with antiques decorating the rooms as well. Most all of them are for sale.

Year-round hours for the Olde Towne Grainery TeaRoom & Galleria are Wednesday to Saturday, 11:00-4:00. But for the month of December they have hosted High Tea and Delightful Music on Sundays. The final event will be this coming Sunday, December 21, from 1:00 to 3:00, featuring the Starry Night Chamber Ensemble providing soft classical music. Reservations are required. You can call them at 360-419-9090 or order your tickets here.

(photos courtesy of Olde Town Grainery TeaRoom & Galleria)