The Royal Tea Room and Gift Shoppe
(132 reviews)2719 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629, USA 813-837-3000 Owner?
The Royal Tea Room and Gift Shoppe has an enchanting gift shop offering lifestyle gifts to pamper you and those you love. Tucked in the back of the shop is our tea room with its European ambience. White slipper chairs and floor draped tablecloths and chandeliers await you. A perfect atmosphere for a quiet respite and the timeless tradition of afternoon tea. Tea selections are paired with our freshly made scones, savories, teacakes and pastries, which are prepared on premise daily.. We invite you to experience the rituals of afternoon tea with friends and family. It is good for the soul! KEEP US IN MIND FOR SHOWERS, BABY AND BRIDAL AS WELL AS BRIDESMAID LUNCHEONS AND OTHER SPECIAL OCCASIONS. If you are interested in a reservation or information please call us, as we do not use this site for either of these. Thank you.
Recent reviews
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Celinda Evitt
Have been nourishing my soul and sharing tea with friends at the Royal Tea Room for 20yrs+
I travel all over the US and have yet to have a tea experience that even comes close to this treasure: fresh expertly prepared food, perfect tea and a sanctuary of calm and beauty.
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Edie, Margaret and Nina
We all agree The Royal Tea Room has the best tea, food, atmosphere,
and the absolute best service in Tampa. It is our favorite tea room.
What a great afternoon we had. Thanks so much.
Edie, Anna, Margaret and Nina
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Fussbudgets
I have been going to The Royal Tearoom for at least 8 years now with my friends and it is still amazing today as it was during that first tea. I was just there on Friday and the food was amazing - I took one bite in the sandwich and just thought - scrumptious. Always amazing, always perfect and I always find the perfect tea to bring home from their gift shop. I bought Paris the other day and it is sublime... almost rivals my favorite Apricot. Thank you Denise and all at the Royal Tearoom!
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Nancy Lane
Thank you so much for accommodating my last minute request this past week. I needed a reprieve and tea was the answer! Good food, good tea and the perfect serene ambience did the trick. Thank you Royal Tea Room for being there!
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Sue L and daughters
Joined my daughters for tea at this lovely spot. We were treated so graciously. Highlight was the food!! So...delicious! Couldn't tell you what was the best because when I finished one item I'd say that was the best, then I'd try something different and then that was the best! Returning soon for sure!
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Patricia M
Gotta try this tea room! Oh my! Everything was so wonderful, fresh, tasty.....can't wait to return!
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Sally West
Brought my daughter here for tea for her birthday and it was just lovely. It was definitely a more elegant presentation then I have experienced at other tearooms. And tasted just as elegant! Their gift shop is really lovely as well. We will be back and won't wait for a special occasion next time.
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Judith Moore
Went to this charming spot for a friend's birthday. Great food and ambience! Can't wait to return, worth the drive from Palm Harbor. The most darling gift shoppe,too.
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Mallory
Having been to tearooms across the country and abroad I must tell you that the Royal Tea Room is a gem! The food was divine. You could tell that it was made from scratch with love. The scones melted in our mouths and the chicken salad had such great flavors, we all wanted more! The details of perfection were reflected not only in the food but also in the well appointed dining room. Lastly, don't miss the enchanting gift shop!
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Dawn
My daughters (aged 8 and 6) and I frequently enjoy the entire tea 'experience' at the Royal Tea Room. We do like to try out different tea establishments and the Royal Tea Room continues to be our absolute favorite. Food is consistently delicious, teas are wonderful and the atmosphere is very elegant. Denise does a fantastic job ensuring that we are well taken care of and the entire experience always leaves us feeling remarkable pampered and 'super-girly'. My girls are especially looking forward to celebrating here on Friday after 'the Royal Wedding'. Best of the best!!!!
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Francine Baxter
Had tea here with group of friends yesterday. Very welcoming and beautiful ambiance. We so enjoyed the total experience and have made plans to come back soon.
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Sandra Lentz
Let me count the ways I adore this lovely establishment! The best tasting food and presentation, perfectly paired teas, and a wonderful gift shop. Need I say more!
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Irene Shone
Recently hosted a shower at this lovely tea room. Everything and I mean everything was done for me, all I had to do was show up! The food was plentiful and very yummy! As was the tea. If you are entertaining this is the way to go. We be back for sure.
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Kimberly and the girls
A very pleasurable experience was had by all eight of us for our holiday get together. The ambiance, hospitality and food were absolutely the very best! Our only wish would be that we could come more often! Until our next get together...
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Amanda Simmons
Simply the best in Tampa! I took my friend here the other day and we loved everything from the tea, the delicious scones and the mouth watering chicken salad! I highly recommend! My friend loved it so much she booked a reservation to take her mom and sister to tea for their special Holiday Tea. Not to mention the gift shop is so precious :)
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Sally Hardin
This charming tea room is the best in my book. I have been to all the others in the area and there is no comparison. We drive quite a way, to enjoy this bit of heaven and every time it seems to be better and better! Treat yourself to the best tea room food around!
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Claire Chastain
WOW! An amazing experience. Better than the Ritz in Paris, or for that matter any where else I have traveled.
Great attention to detail and flavor pairings. Truly a lovely tea.
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Becky Govin
Went here to celebrate a friends birthday and enjoyed every bite! Highly recommend this tea room.
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S. Chang
Decided to try this tea room based on the previous reviews and was quite happy to agree with everyone else. Very excellent experience. Tea cup was never allowed to empty and ambience is very relaxing. Love the music that was playing. Food was yummy and loved the gift shoppe offerings. Will definitely return and highly recommend!
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sz
The tea room behind the gift shop was beautifully decorated and the tables were set with nice china with floral design. Our server was VERY nice and accommodating and never let our teacups go empty. We had cucumber sandwich, curry chicken salad in croissant, scone, pecan square, and chocolate/fruit. Everything was delicious! The whole tea experience was great with the ambiance, dainty portions, and sipping tea.
The gift shop had lots of cute items. We had some pictures that we would've liked to share to show you the place but we were told 'no pictures allowed' by the creepy cashier who followed my friend to the bathroom. Besides her, everything else was a lovely experience.
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Nora
I have been to several Tea Rooms while visiting Tampa...The Royal Tea Room is by far the best. The waiter was friendly and talkative but very professional at the same time. the food was excellent and unlike some of the Tea rooms I have been to, the food was all homemade...even the desserts(which I find store bought often). I wish I lived in the area so I could return many times...
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'Queenie'
Four of us had the most 'AMAZING' experience last Friday...I consider myself a tea room snob and we found that everything from the service to the food to the gift shop was fabulous...if you are looking for the freshest and most delicious tea room food this is the place to visit...Go see for yourself.
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KR
The Royal Tea Room's ambiance is simply delightful, a little nook of heaven in South Tampa. The effort that is put into every little touch makes every step of the experience breathtaking. Afternoon tea here allows for a relaxing escape, and coming to tea felt like being pampered. Not once during teatime did the servers allow my cup to become empty, and every request was graciously accommodated. I highly recommend coming to The Royal Tea Room for any occasion, even if it's just the need of a little escape.
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Heather
Everything about this tea room is absolutely wonderful. The decor is so beautiful. It provides such a wonderful, enchanting atmosphere. The gift shop has lots of fun little goodies, great for gifts as well as treats for yourself. The food is absolutely spectacular! Everytime I visit she has some new, amazing, edible creation. I have been to tea rooms all over the area and all over the world and I can tell you, no one has better food! Enjoy!!
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Holly
Last weekend, I had the opportunity of hosting a baby shower here and I cannot even begin to tell you how wonderful it was! The food was delicious and was very elegantly displayed... the service was phenomenal and I can not give enough praise to the Royal Tea Room! I did not have to worry about decorating or cleaning up-- everything was taken care of for us. The ladies did a great job of taking care of our party and making our afternoon memorable. Everything here is amazing and I highly recommend that you visit... Definitely consider it for any showers or parties. Makes a great afternoon :)
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RS
My children took me to a 'birthday tea' here and it was wonderful! I felt like royalty (complete with a crown!) The food was beautifully presented, tasted delicious and we had such a good time. The gift shop is one of my favorite places to shop for that person who has everything because I find things here I have not seen other places!
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Gabriella 8 years old
The tea was not good.It was great!All those desserts were cute and delicous.The sugar was so good.It tasted like cinammon.You could even put milk in your tea! No boys allowed.
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Rosanna
I've been to several tea rooms around the Tampa Bay/St. Pete area and The Royal Tea Room is by far the best. The food is superb, the atmosphere is quainte and cozy, and the service is impecable. The only thing I'd change is to be able to choose my own tea. They have a tea of the day that is served when having high tea. However, it allows me to try new flavors and I've never been dissapointed.
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disapointed
A group of college friends wanted to get together to renew friendships and asked me to find a place where we could relax and enjoy each others company. I had heard that The Royal Tea Room would be just that place. It so far exceeded our expectations it was unbelievable. We never expected such a quality and quentity of the most delicious food imaginable. The owner came out to greet us and our group all stood and applauded her exceptional efforts. We promised ourselves to make a hasty return. We were also impressed with the wonderful gifts in her gift shop - lots of fun, exciting and innovative gifts for any occasion.
I know I'll be back very soon just to shop.
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Linda Turner
This is a favorite tea room of mine.
The food is unique,changes with the seasons, and is so delicious The service is impeccable and the staff,so friendly, making me feel at home. The gift shop has a wonderful assortment of tea items and specialty gifts. I love to celebrate special occasions here!
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Janet Y. Mendez
I have enjoyed The Royal Tea Room over the years as the perfect place for relaxing and catching up with good friends over perfectly prepared tea and delicious treats. My most recent visit was with 2 of my closest friends and our mothers, who didn't know each other! It was such a splendid afternoon in every way. Denise Winter owns this beautiful little spot, complete with one of Tampa's best gift shops, and lovingly prepares all of the food daily. From her scones (cinnamon on this day), to her wonderful mini chicken salad croissants, cucumber and herb cheese sandwiches cut in flower shapes, and airy little puffs filled with tangy goat cheese, to an assortment of fruit and chocolate desserts, our tea time really couldn't have been more perfect! Our birthday girl loved her crown! Thanks Denise, for a great day and a lovely memory for us all!
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Patty Wood and Alyssa McElwain
I have lived in the Tampa Bay area for a long time and remember the Royal Tea Room from the early years onward - this tea room lives up to its well-deserved reputation. The food is consistently delicious; the service is outstanding and hospitality abounds. Please visit here - you won't be disappointed!
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JJW
The Royal Tea Room in the heart of South Tampa is my relaxing place. I can think of no better way to sit back for an hour and a half than over a cup of tea brewed to perfection and a delightful array of finger sandwiches and tea pastries. Today I took to tea my best friend from Georgia for the first time and she fell in love with the place the moment she walked in. Her favorite highlights were the unique and fun gifts in the gift shop and she raved over the fresh baked scones and the amazing curry chicken salad. I recommend this tearoom *****. Thanks for bringing such joy and relaxation to my life!
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Katarina Seacrest
The Royal Tea Room is absolutely delightful! The cranberry chicken salad and cucumber sandwiches are my favorite. Everything is beautifully presented and the service is great...not to mention the adorable gift shoppe! This tea room caters to your every need!
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Celinda Evitt
This is a secret haven of peace and delicious food where guests have been known to moan with delight as they eat. The menu of teas and wonderful inventive savories, fresh scones, and sweets varies often inviting frequent returns. The staff is attentive and remember their customers. Repeat customers are treated like family. The tea room accomodates children over 3 (with a children's variation of tea using apple juice)and vegetarians on request, and do their best to make each visit the best ever.
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Valera Reynolds
The Royal Tea Room and Gift Shop is an absolute delight. Browsing the unique gift selection before and after tea is great fun. The tea itself was delicious. I sampled a strawberry/apricot mixture and loved it! The food is always to die for. This was my fifth visit, and I was looking forward to the scones, cream, and jam. I was also anticipating the delicate cucumber sandwiches, wonderful chicken salad croissant, and delightful dessert treats. This trip, though, I was pleasantly surprised with an addition: a melt-in-your-mouth asparagus and goat cheese pastry...scrumptious! As always, the elegant ambiance and superb service made the experience relaxing and enjoyable.
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Kathy Smith
This tea room is simply perfection. Everything that was served was to die for! The tea 'Essence' was delicious, I bought my own to brew at home.
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Jennifer
Visited this tearoom on 3/17 and it was wonderful as always. The food was fresh and tasted fantastic, the atmosphere relaxed and the service always kind and friendly. On every visit we are given something different and not just the same things you might find at any tearoom. Diane is very particular about the food she serves and it shows. Thank you again for another wonderful relaxing afternoon!
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Lauren
We went to The Royal Tea Room for my friends birthday. The tea variety was lacking in my opinion. I prefer to have an abundance of tea choices and there was just wasn't enough. I also felt rushed. They have a few tea times and they have to clear out for the next group. However, the ambiance is absolutely beautiful and their gift shop is just darling. A good time all in all.
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Marianne Newsome
Consistently one of Tampa's best tea rooms. Denise knows the art of tea and hospitality.
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Jan O'donnell
We hosted a Bride's Maids tea with 20 people. the food was excellent from the banana scones, lemon squares to the Stilton cheese quiches with rosemary. Everyone who attended said it was wonderful. All decorations provided. We came from out of town and had to do nothing but put the name places on the table!
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Stephanie Lane
The food and tea room was perfect for my wedding shower. All of my guests were delighted with everything; the food was gourmet and presented beautifully. I recommend the Royal Tea Room to everyone!
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Cali
I took my Mom to tea for her birthday this summer and we had the best time! The tea was amazing- we couldn't stop drinking but somehow the wait staff managed to keep our cups filled (we never had to ask for refills). The food was delicious! We had banana scones which were incredible and we both loved the chicken salad- it was so fresh! I would definately recommend this tea room for any occasion!
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Kerry Clancy-Asher
I wanted to take my mother out for her birthday but wanted something different and relaxing. An experience that she could not get anywhere else. The fact I love tea heled me make my choice. I am not sorry that we went to the Royal Tea room for the 11:30 seating. I cannot begin to explain how pretty everything was and how pretty it made us feel. The tea was amazing and just could not drink enough and the food was not only pleasing to our eyes but to mouths. The whole experience was far beyond and better then I could ever imagined. I want to thank all involved for making her birthday memorable and now we are both not waiting to a special occasion to attend the Tea room we are going to come just for fun because we all deserve to be treated special, life is simply too short to wait for occasions.
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Michele
Other Tea Rooms have come and gone in South Tampa but there are many resons why this gem is still shining! I have visited tea rooms all over the U.S. and abroad and The Royal Tea Room is hands down my favorite. The service and hospitality are wonderful. I am recently expecting and requested Apricot decaf on my last visit. Upon my arrival, and within minutes I had a bubbling hot pot in front of me with carmelized sugar on the side. No request is too large or small for Denise. A happy customer is her biggest reward. I am always blown away with the creativity that The Royal Tea Room puts into their menu. On this trip, I had banana chocolate chip scones with strawberry perserves and of course clotted cream. The finger sandwiches consisted of a traditional, though not typical, cucumber sandwich,chicken salad on croissant,and last but not least a miniature duck quesadilla garnished with a sour cream florette and chive. The presentation if I have not mentioned it before is absolutely divine. The dessert tier consisted of a chocolate boat with fresh berries, a tiny key lime pie and another wonderful homemade creation. If that hasn't got you ringing them for an afternoon tea reservation,the unique shopping experience will! The owner Denise has traveled far and wide to bring some of the most unique gift items to her boutique. It's the perfect stop for that last minute gift.I have attended many showers at The Royal Tea Room including having a luncheon there where I asked my best girlfriends and family to participate in my wedding. I am hoping to have one of my baby showers there as well. Happy Sipping!!!
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Jennifer Marino
Charming tea room in South Tampa with delicious food (especially the scones). Perfect for a ladies outing, that special tea party with your little girls or an afternoon delight with the ladies from work. Fantastic little boutique as well!
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Carol
I had never been interested in going to a tearoom, however my friend (who loves tearooms)insisted on taking me there for Christmas 2007. It was wonderful! We loved the plum tea. The food is delicious and very nicely presented. The service excellent and friendly. I love the atmosphere and it's a unique place to shop too! It's a refreshing place to spend some time and is definitely number one on our list.
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Donna Winger
Our Red Hat group had a delightful time at The Royal Tea Room. The service was super and Diane was so efficient and polite. Denise had prepared a wonderful selection of tea sandwiches, scones and pasteries and everyone raved. I definitely will return again and again. Denise is also very good at returning phone calls and helpful in planning the event.
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Joanne Mirabella
I had a bridal tea for my daughter and her bridesmaids at The Royal Tea Room and it was beautifully done! We chose to have an 11:00 am tea so we could have the tea room to ourselves. The room accomodates 18 and we had 15. Our guests loved the tea room and the gift shop. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. The service was splendid. Diane and Trey did a wonderful job of making sure our tea cups were always full and all our needs met. Denise made a special wedding cake for each of the tea trays presented at the five tables of three we had. They were a hit with all the girls. The whole experience was first class.
Joanne Mirabella
Tampa, Florida
April 5th 2008
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Carolyn McGonigel
I have been to several tearooms in this area and this was, by far, the best. I was impressed with the food, the service and the tea. The room was beautifully and carefully decorated. My friends and I had a relaxed and comfortable time and we plan to return.
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Susie Davey
The Royal Tea Room is absolutely everything that a tea room should be. It is beautifully decorated; quaint; elegant; with food that is prepared and presented in true ceremonial tea style. I don't know if they have a chef, but it certainly appears that whoever is in the kitchen knows what afternoon tea should be. I am surprised at the few negative comments about this place. Some people are just impossible to please. Do yourself a favor and come here.
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Viola Wallace
I took my sister and our friend to the Royal Tea Room for a birthday celebration. We were very happy with the whole experience. What a great surprise!
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RJ
There's a reason that this tea room is consistently in the top five. The food, service and artistry has remained constant since the first owner, through now. The food is delicious and the portion sizes are substantial. It is beautifully decorated. This tea room perfectly embodies what one would expect a true tea experience to be.
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Robin Etherton
I spoke with Diane about having a bridal shower for 14 and was told to speak with Denise. When I spoke with Denise I was told they only do party's for 18+. They lost a $300 party for the lack of 4 people. I was surprised they could not accomodate us. Their loss. We will go to Sofia's on Henderson/Hubert.
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daphni
I've traveled the state and visited many tea rooms, but I'm a faithful fan of The Royal Tea Room. Reading through recent reviews prompted me to write. First, The Royal Tea Room is located in a quaint storefront on MacDill...it is NOT in the house someone posted. Furthermore, I'm of Mediterranean blood and I've taken friends to the tea room of all ethnic groups - the staff there has been nothing but polite and kind to everyone. The negative comments posted seem to stem from someone trying to tarnish the reputation of a wonderful establishment. The Royal Tea Room is a class act. The atmosphere is unique, the service impeccable and the food fabulous. It is, by far, the best tea room in the Tampa Bay Area!
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Esther
I have been going to the Royal Tea Room for several years; my friends and I have make this as almost a tradition, where we can share some quality time and at the same time enjoy the elegant and nice atmosphere, the music in the background, the service is excellent and courteous,they always have a new and different taste of delicious tea, and of course accompanied with little sandwiches and desert.I have to say if you wish to spend a pleasante time with friends I recommended.
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michelle
First of all, I must ask what's with the random photo of that house....that is most definitely not the Royal Tea Room. Whoever posted that - not cool. I've just returned from another delightful tea experience. Delicious mixed berry scones (never dry and crumbly as at other tea rooms), sumptuous lobster bisque, chicken salad croissant and the traditional cucumber sandwiches, not to mention the top tier of sweets which we never have room for - you can always count on the food and tea being superb each and every time. Our tea cups were refilled repeatedly and without us asking. Denise is a delight, always taking time to come out from the kitchen to say hello. I have been coming here for 10 years and always look forward to relaxing and being pampered. I've been to the Royal Tea Room with family members and neighbors who are Hispanic and have never once seen them treated any differently, only with respect as everyone else. I just cannot understand how anyone could say anything negative about the Royal Tea Room. After 10 years, I still give it 5+ stars.
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Cheryl S
Took my daughter and daughter-in-law plus a friend to the tea room to celebrate birthday's ,coudn't have chosen a better place .The girls were given little silver crowns to mark their special day,which was a lovely surprise. The service and food were wonderful .the tea that day was sugar plum spice which we are all still talking about .Denise does a superb job,not only with her made from scratch food but also with her emplyee's who are all very gracious
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molly
went there for a good friends surprise birthday. my friend and her mom are frequents there. we show up and immediately are treated rudely. we weren't even being loud and they told us to be quiet..mind you there was no one their except us. it would have been a much more pleasant experience if we were treated better because the food was pretty good, except for the cupcake type things that tasted very cheap.
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Tea-aholic
Although I live in south Tampa and this cozy little tea room is just around the corner, I would drive miles for the delicious scones, adorable and delightful desserts, scrumptious tea, and fantastic service. The waitresses were attentive and friendly and the gift shop is the perfect place to find gifts for friends, a little treat for yourself, or endulge your tea tooth :) Best tea room experience I've ever had. Hat off to the staff and chef of the Royal Tea Room!
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Victoria Yado
Everytime I go to this tea room I love it even more! The gift shop is adorable and I always find a special something as well as the tea room itself is AMAZING.
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Judith Worsley Bethlehem, PA
Fabulous tea...terrific service...great atmosphere...all served complete with an authentic British accent....who could want for more!!! As one of three hosts for our niece's pre-wedding bridal tea, I was delighted with everything. The setting was intimate, the tea cups constantly filled with hot tea, the scones to die for and 'the tea' was a hit! I felt the price was reasonable and a great value for the money. My only disappointment...I live in PA!! Thanks to Denise and Diane for a wonderful tea and surpassing my expectations. My last tea was at The Empress in Victoria...this was equally memorable.
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Daphni and Kaila
Once again my daughter & I attended 'Tea with the Ghouls' - the tearoom's annual Halloween event. As always, it was a wonderful afternoon. We donned 'diva adorned' black hats as we sipped tea and enjoyed Denise's scrumptious seasonal treats (the pumpkin soup was my favorite!). The service, as always, was exceptional - our cups were kept as full as our bellies. I can't speak highly enough about The Royal Tea Room. It's become the favorite Saturday treat for my daughter & I.
Thank you, Denise, for all your time, talent and attention to detail!
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Caroline Lindsey
This is the only tea room in Tampa worth visiting. The owner, Denise, makes every visit special. My friends recently held my baby shower at The Royal Tea Room, and the event was everything I could have hoped for and more. The food was excellent, the tea was delicious, and the whole day was perfect. What a wonderful way to celebrate with friends and family!
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Kelly
I am delighted to share the experience we had this weekend at The Tea Room. We hosted a baby shower there and it can only be described as elegant and easy! Thank you Denise and your staff. We had a wondereful time; the service was exceptional. All the guests including the Mom-to-be had a great time and remarked on the excelent choice. We had 21 friends in the intimate back room. Ask for the quesadillas and cupcakes --they were personal favorites. Thanks again.
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Diane Griesenbeck
I have been to this tea room several times. The food is delicious and always presented well. The staff is always courteous and willing to answer all of your questions. Denise takes pride in making the scones, sandwiches and the desserts. I and my friends highly recommend The Royal Tea Room.
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Kim Joyner Diaz
Oh my gosh,
I was invited to The Royal Tea Room for a wedding shower. The room was so beautiful and cozy. The tea was fab and the food even better. The little BLTs were the best i have ever had with the bacon tasting like apple and sugar ahall in one. But the best was the minature wedding cakes so beautiful
atop the highest tier on the tray. The rich flavor of the cake and the icing to die for. Can't wait to back and have a tea party with my girlfriends!!!!
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Penelope
This is the absolute best tea room I have ever expereienced. Having frequented the Royal Tea Room for quite some time, new and different menu items are always prepared. The decor and entire atmosphere inspire a feeling of being in a completely different world, where everything is pristine. It seem that no other Tea Room in the Tampa area can meet the bar that the lovely owner and the ladies who work at the Royal Tea Room have set. Whether hosting/ attending a private party or taking a break for a nice lunch with a friend, this is the epitomy of a truly Royal tea
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Gourmet in Tampa
Fabulous. Elegant, delicious, wonderful atmosphere, delightful gift shop. Had a wonderful time. I've never been to a better tea room
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Cindy Farias
The Royal Tea Room is a real treat. The atmosphere is elegant yet comfortable. The food is fresh and delicious. Our teacups are replenished quickly and as often as we like. The gift shop is full of delightful, tempting gifts. Dining here is a pleasure I look forward to again and again.
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Becky Buhl
I never was a 'pinkie-up-tea-drinking-kind-of-gal' until I discovered High Tea at the Empress Hotel in BC years ago. Fast forward to the present and I'm now a regular at the Royal Tea Room in south Tampa. If you're up for an elegant, satisfying afternoon of gastronomic pampering, don't miss the RTR. Denise and Lady Di are the best of the best ... you, your family, and friends will be in for a treat (husbands, too)!
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Melissa, Erie PA
My friends and I visit a lot of tearooms and the Royal is one of our favorite stops. The food is presented well and our teacups were never empty!
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Michelle Gortemoller
Delicious & Delightful! So elegant, it's a must for a Bridal or Baby Shower!
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P. Z,
Two months ago my mother came to visit from out of town. I always look for 'different' types of things to do and show her when she is in Tampa. I decided an afternoon tea would be fun and interesting, as neither of us had been to a tearoom before. We were both amazed at the quality, taste and presentation of the tea and foods. It was a culinary delight! Our tea cups were kept full by the delightfully pleasant and friendly hostess. We also spent a lot of time (and some money) in the well stocked and interestingly supplied gift shop rooms. I have been back twice since, and my mother gets SO jealous when I talk with her on the phone and tell her I've been there! WE will surely be returning next time she visits. I have no desire to visit any other tearoom because I don't believe The Royal Tea Room can be surpassed.
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Amy Bailey
This lovely little spot quenches your thirst for a dainty, elegant afternoon tea. The food was perfect, scones warm from the oven and mandolin sliced cucumber over dilled cream cheese was better than average fare. The gift shop was full of snazzy gal-gifts as well.
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Jennifer
Just celebrated Valentine's Day with several friends over a delectable tea at the Royal Tea Room. The special event teas are always extraordinary with an innovative menu that deviates from their delightful Afternoon Teas. Their is always a 'remembrance' gift at the end of the event. We all had a fabulous time and highly recommend the Royal Tea Room for all occasions. Thanks for a great celebration.
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Anna M.
The royal tea room offers a shabby chic experience in a cozy space. I have been going there for the past 4 years and have introduced numerous friends to this tea room. The chicken curry sandwich is delectable as is their fresh and hot scone! I love the fact they offer their tea of the day which is never dull and extremely tasty without losing the flavor of the tea, whether it is based on black, white, green, etc. I highly recommend the Royal Tea room.
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Victoria
We were a party of three who were all first time visitors to the Royal Tea Room. We made reservations for 1:30 and they gave us ample time to look around at the interesting gift shop. We were seated in a cozy 10 table dimly lit room. China was an interesting eccletic mix which was a good conversation piece. All three tiers of food were delectable and the tea of the day was Plum Pudding. Service was excellent. This is one of Tampa's best kept secrets...
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tea lovin' darling
the Royal Tea Room and Gift Shop is by far the most exquisite and delightful place I have ever been. The tea and food is wonderfully prepared and the hostess is even better. The lovely British accent only adds to the sheer charm of the afternoon tea experience. I highly recommend The Royal Tea Room to any and everyone!!!!
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Cristina
My experience at The Royal Tea Room was good, but nothing to 'write home' about. The food and the tea was delicious. The server (a young lady) was very polite and refilled our teacups promptly. The tea room and the gift shop is beautifully decorated, very Victorian and whimsical. The Tea Room itself is VERY small and a bit dark..so if you are claustrophobic..watch out!
A few negatives: We had to wait to be seated several minutes even though we arrived on time for our 1:30pm reservation and all the tables were empty, the teapot was not left at the table with a cozy as it is done in other establishments I frequent, the lady who seated us (she had a british accent) had a very unfriendly demeanor. She never smiled and looked at me up and down before seating us. I felt very uncomfortable with that. I had read a previous review from another patron who complained about the same thing..I wanted to give the benefit of the doubt, but now I know what that patron was talking about. The patron felt discriminated because she was hispanic..I am Cuban-American..coincidence? Maybe it is just something that was done unconciously, and the hostess did not realize the negative impact. If that is the case, I hope she reads this review and makes a mental note for future patrons. In the hospitality industry, this is not acceptable behaviour and I hope that this will be taken as constructive criticism.
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Lara
I took my mom to the Royal Tea Room as part of her 50th birthday present. We had the lovliest time! Food was superb and the tea, chocolate strawberry kiss, was amazing. Our teacups never got more than half empty before they were being refilled. My mom was even presented with a birthday crown to wear while we dined in celebration of her big day. We will be back soon!
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Jennifer Metzger
My best friend and I traveled to London last April and had the opportunity to experience 'Afternoon Tea'. Upon our return, she searched for a local tea room to take my daughter and me to for our birthday. She hoped the experience would be half as nice as tea in London. To our delight our experience was just as wonderful at the Royal Tea Room as it was in London. Since our first trip to the Royal Tea Room last August, we have been back numerous times. My daughter also chose the Royal Tea Room to celebrate her sixteenth birthday with her best girlfriends. We love the Royal Tea Room and Denise! The atmosphere, the food and the service is outstanding.
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Tracy
I had tea here last week with one of my girlfriends and we had the time of our life. The food was absolutely delicious and the tea was brewed to perfection. The room was very intimate and perfect for showers. Not to mention they had a cute gift shop in the front. I will definitely be back!
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Daphni Willard
I just had my daughter's 18th birthday party at the Royal Tea Room and it was just perfect! Besides the beautiful decor and wonderful food, the service was outstanding. They made her day extra special. The guests had never experienced a tea room and they all raved and can't wait to go back. Thank you, Denise, for making it such a special day for Kaila.
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Susannah M.
I have been a regular vistor at The Royal Tea Room for a few years now and have never been disappointed. Whether I am sneaking in after work for a relaxing moment alone or meeting my friends or friends for an afternoon out, I always enjoy the experience the tea room provides. The food is fantastic. The sandwiches are creative and delicious. It is always a special treat when there is soup on the menu. Denise makes a wonderful lobster bisque. I have had an opportunity over the years to visit many tea rooms and I always return to The Royal Tea Room because of the quality and atmosphere. I would highly recommend The Royal Tea Room to anyone.
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Christina T.
My daughter and I went and had the afternoon tea.It was excellent.The lobster bisque was just delicious. It was our first time to this tea room and we will definately be back.
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A Loyal Patron, Denise
I enjoyed having tea at this quaint little tea room. The hostess/server was very friendly and service was very good. The lobster bisque is delicious.
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dean
Had an excellent experience with this tea room. I booked my wife's 40th birthday party here, and the ladies were very nice and everything was top notch. My wife and her friends were very impressed by the service and had a great time. I would just like to thank them all for making it a special day for my wife.
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Tammy
First the negative: I've been there twice with different hispanic groups and both times I felt discriminated against... felt unwelcomed, like the step child. The service was almost as if they were forced to serve us. The server was sloppy, did not attend to us, we were ignored too many times, and if we dared to ask a question (God forbid) we were looked at and treated as if we were not good enough to be there.
We met the owner and she only looked at us up and down. Made us wait 25 minutes before we could be seated.
The good part:
The food was good. The shop was really nice.
Overall, the prices are higher than most places in Tampa but that's never a problem when you get treated with respect...especially when you have certain expectations. I thought I was going to have a princess like experience.
I have not been back since, it's been a year.
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Blair VanLandingham
I had a wonderful experience at The Royal Tea Room. We were greeted warmly and had a lovely experience there. The tea was served in gorgeous tea cups, and the food was to die for! The homemade scones with clotted cream were my absolute favorite. I would recommend The Royal Tea Room to anyone visiting the Tampa area...a ROYAL treat!!
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Emma
I have just returned from holiday in England and visited Tinley Hall which serves an exclusive afternoon tea, it was impressive.To my delight i went to The Royal Tea Room and was also extremely impressed with the atmosphere, tea and cakes.The Royal Tea Room has a reputation of high standards,creativity and character that i have not been able to find anywhere else in the Tampa bay area.
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Elizabeth Fry
This is by far the best tea room in Tampa ,the scones are wonderful soft and full of blueberries,cucumber sandwiches alway's crisp to the bite.
Deserts are sweet treats to please any palate.
I go back time and again.
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Lorie Vance
The Tea, Thyme and Crumpets group has voted this tea room the best in the Tampa Bay area. Denise and her staff go over and above to make your experience one to remember for years to come. Every morsel is homemade and is enough to satisfy even the most famished of tea lovers. There's a good balance of sweet and savory foods to make everyone happy. The tea area and gift shop setting is quaint with a nostalgic appeal. The gift shop has some of the most elegant and whimsical items that might just be the one of a kind antique or a reproduction gift you are looking to give to yourself or a dear friend. If you have never visited this tea room do yourself a favor to take time out to attend one of their regular or special event and holiday teas. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!
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Berry
This is the best tea room in town -- Hands down. Everything is top-notch. Denise always does an outstanding job. The cucumber sandwiches are fabulous, the scones are perfect, and the tea is always delicious. I have been to many tea rooms in Tampa, New York, Washington D.C. and elsewhere, but nothing compares to The Royal Tea Room. It's a must have for me 3-4 times a month now!
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Nancy
This was my first visit to The Royal Tea Room and Gift shop. I loved it! My friend who has never been to tea room and is not a tea drinker loved it also. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in high tea. The shop was wonderful as well and I found some lovely gifts for my sister who is one of those tough to buy for people. It was wonderful and I plan on visiting again.