YORK COUNTY — In a delightful blend of tradition and innovation, the York Gardens and Tearoom is expanding both its offerings and its space.
As the only authentic royal English tea room on the Peninsula, York Gardens and Tearoom, which opened in December 2022, has worked diligently to meet the needs of the local community.
The tearoom — which also boasts outdoor garden dining — offers breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea service and dinner. It also hosts family-friendly themed parties, tea tastings, live music and fundraising events.
“We are doing some exciting things,” exclaimed owner Jimmy Howell. “We are trying to make it fun.”
York Gardens and Tearoom recently launched its tea brand, York Tea Company.
Three teas are currently available at the restaurant or for purchase online — the Duchess Garden Tea; Surrender Fields Tea in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States and PawTea, a non-caffeinated beverage for your dog.
Starting Aug. 24, the tearoom will begin hosting murder mystery dinners where diners are promised an evening of mystery, intrigue, and delicious food.
Howell enthusiastically explained that ‘Lurking in the Gardens’ is an interactive, original experience in which guests are asked to solve the murder, “the thing about the murder mysteries we did in the past is that we had our staff playing roles. This time we have hired actors and producer Marie Phillips.”
Tickets for the murder mystery dinners, which will be held on Saturday evenings starting at 6:30 p.m., can be purchased by contacting the York Gardens and Tearoom to reserve space.
The tea room is also currently being renovated and will expand into the conjoined space to offer additional indoor seating that can also be reserved for private parties.
“I really want this to be a place for folks to enjoy,” said Howell, “but, I like to give the credit to the folks who work here. They are the ones that make this place what it is.”
To learn more about York Gardens and Tearoom, follow its YouTube Channel, Facebook or webpage.
