Great Escape: Around the World in 40 Teas

The British may well be on to something with the value they place on their daily tea time. In our culture, we cater to fast food craziness where we inhale a meal while driving in the car and throw back a sugary soda hoping that it will give us the energy to make it through the rest of our day. The thought of an afternoon "time out" to relax, recoup and regroup doesn't even cross our minds.

Perhaps the most appealing part about tea time is that you have to "sip" it or you will burn your mouth, and that sipping forces you to slow down, relax and savor the moment. This week's escape, then, comes in the form of high tea, where peace and relaxation flow with the chamomille, providing you with extra energy for the  entire day.

Enter the "T Room" on Honolulu Ave. The T Room is a traditional English Tea parlor catering to tea party lovers of all ages. Owner Marianna Kotcharian attributes their success over the past eight years to an inviting environment, unique blends of teas and wonderful meals and desserts.

The decor of the room reflects a customary English tea room with tapestry chairs and hundreds of different china teacups to choose from. Beautiful china hutches house a sizeable selection of dishes and freshly cut flowers ornament every table. Classical music plays in the background and helps rhw foreign task of unwinding. Their gorgeous, enclosed patio is a wonderful place to enjoy teas, scones, and sandwiches, and is often the locale of numerous birthday, bridal, and anniversary parties.

An expansive variety of over 40 teas from countries such as England, Russia, South Africa, China, India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East are sure please any tea lover. Premium Earl Grey with blue flowers is one of the most popular afternoon teas, but be sure to look over the herbals assortments offered, too. Coconut vanilla, blueberry, orange spice, peach, mango, and raspberry are just some herbals teas available for your drinking pleasure.

All teas can be served steaming hot or chilled. Lemon and orange wedges, cream, sugar, and sweeteners are all on hand to create a tea just to one's liking. The "T Room" also has coffees, hot chocolate, fresh lemonade, sodas and juice.

Enjoy "high tea" daily complete with a pot of tea, lingonberry chicken salad, Norwegian salmon wraps, smoked egg salad sandwiches, and watercress and cucumber sandwiches. Cranberry orange scones complete with Russian crème and fruit preserves provide the perfect complement any tea. The price for this decadent afternoon delight is $21.99.

 The "T Room" also provides a great children's menu with chocohaze (Chocolate hazelnut), grilled cheese, egg salad, or classic PB & J options.

Consider the "T Room" for your next birthday party, shower, or afternoon celebration. Call ahead for reservations: 818-249-6677. They are open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit their website here.