Sereni-Tea Victorian Tea Room, MD

A recent family outing took us to Maryland where we enjoyed the Royal Tea served at the Sereni-Tea Victorian Tea Room in Funkstown (near Hagerstown).
A fluted glass of chilled sparkling peach juice awaited our arrival. We sipped on the sparkling juice as we selected our tea from the extensive tea menu.

Loose leaf tea is strained through individual silver plated stainers. The little drip catcher held the strainer when not in use. The rich burgandy tableclothes, delicate lace coverings, and matching china exuded Victorian wealth. We knew we were in for a treat.

The first course featured fresh peaches with an amaretto glaze. The hint of almonds complemented the fresh fruit nicely. The petite serving was just the right size as there was much more to enjoy.

Following the fruit, we were served the Soup-du-jour which was a thick creamy corn bisque. Very tasty, and again, just the right size.

The summer salad featured fresh tomatoes, cucumber, and onion in a delicate house-made vinaigrette served in this sweet pedestal dish. We enjoyed the multitude of little courses.  

Next, we savored individual portions of a filo crusted quiche nestled in a roasted red pepper coulis which brought forth oohs and aahs when enjoying the crunch of the filo along with the tasty sauce. Yum!








And then, the arrival of the three tiered tray!















The sandwich assortment was on the middle tier and included a pimiento cheese on pumpernickel bread, there was a tomato crostini topped with cheese, a tiny filo cup with spinach and cheese, a cucumber sandwich, and an egg salad sandwich. All very fresh.
The top tier held petite scones and assorted tea breads and muffins served with fresh fruit. A side dish held their version of clotted cream, lemon curd, and strawberry preserves.

And the bottom tier featured a wide selection of tasty desserts that included bread pudding, chocolate brownie, lemon poppyseed florette with lemon curd, a cookie, and a blackberry topped tartlet. Yes, we needed a 'to go' box as we were unable to finish the desserts. What a wide variety and lovely Royal Tea we enjoyed!

Ranota Marcotte is the owner, and she was assisted by her granddaughter. They are standing in front of the wide assortment of teas that they serve in the tea room, and also offer for sale.