Friday, May 6, 2016

Afternoon Tea - Gypsy's Tea Room, Westminster, MD



A recent gathering of tea related business owners and members of the Mid Atlantic Tea Business Association (MATBA) was held at Gypsy's Tea Room in Westminster, MD last month. In addition to a welcoming reception and program, those in attendance enjoyed a delightful Afternoon Tea.





Before we were seated, the tables were set in all their finest with iced mint tea and a fresh Strawberry Almond Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette. The salad featured fresh greens, strawberries, mandarin oranges, goat cheese and almonds; a very tasty combination!
The teas that were offered during the Afternoon Tea were specifically selected to be paired with the menu. Options included Pinhead Gunpowder, Darjeeling, Keemun, and Classic Chai. To continue with the theme of our morning session, the Science of Taste, it was suggested we compare the variety of teas with each different menu option to see how they interacted, either complementing the food, or perhaps even overpowering either the tea or the food. All four teas were available on the table to consider how they worked with the menu. 




A warm White Chocolate Scone with jam and cream was offered after the salad.
And following the scone course, the traditional three tiered tray was served. On the bottom tier, the sandwiches included a Traditional Cucumber Sandwich with Chive Butter, Smoked Salmon Canapes with Cream Cheese and Fresh Dill on Pumpernickel, Pork Tenderloin on Baguette with Sweet and Savory Pepper Jelly, and Granny Smith Apples, Cheddar & Chutney on Whole Wheat. An abundance of flavors right there!











The middle tier held a nice assortment of fresh fruit and Lemon Mousse Parfait which was so light and delicate and presented with a fresh edible violet.












And dessert featured Shortbread Cookies and (to die for) Chocolate Truffles.
Special Thanks to Jo Fleck and her daughter Lora Andrews for a delightful and memorable Afternoon Tea. Following tea, the MATBA members held their annual business meeting and concluded the day with the presentation of Goodie Bags.

2 comments:

Bernideen said...

Lovely tea room and I recognize Maryland China Co porcelain too! Lovely food. Looks like a nice break for ya'll!

Angela McRae said...

Yum! Wish I'd been along for this tearoom visit!