Carefree, Arizona is a small, intimate little town built around a newly updated square and is located just north of Scottsdale. The architecture and landscaping are based on Spanish adobe architecture, and plenty of cacti and desert plants are used. This is definitely not the place you would expect to find an authentic English Tea Room.
I'm not sure of the exact date Joanne Gemmill opened the doors to her small shop, but I believe it was around 2005. I stopped in for lunch one day and was enthralled! Years ago, I spent a year living in England and didn't think I'd ever find authentic scones with clotted cream - but I certainly found them here.
When you enter, you are offered the choice of many formal hats to wear during tea. White linen cloths and napkins are used, with sparking silver and crystal completing the scene. Although the Team Room offers a varied menu of salads and special sandwiches, it specializes in authentic British Teas. My favorite is the Duchess of Bedford's Formal Afternoon Tea that comes with three tiers of goodies. Tea sandwiches, scones, and petit fours are all enjoyed with your choice of freshly brewed teas.
One thing that stands out is a very special tea called the "Nursery Tea" that features items that would appeal to the younger set. I don't think I've been in the Tea Room without enjoying the sight of a group of young ladies, all with hats, enjoying their formal tea. Joanne also offers etiquette lessons to young people and partaking of a formal tea gives them the opportunity to practice what they've learned.
If you are thinking about going but don't know what to do with the man in your life, I can assure you there are always a number of gentlemen enjoying the fabulous food and beverages.
In addition to dining, there is a tiny section of the Tea Room that offers authentic bone china tea cups and other small items for sale.
I would suggest you make a reservation as the Tea Room has become popular with the local residents as well as the visitors to this quaint little town.
More Information:
English Rose Tea Room
201 Easy Street, Suite 103
Carefree, Arizona
Phone: 480 488 4812
For more information or directions, go to the website at www.carefreetea.com
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