There is a place in Niagara Falls that will take you on an inexpensive trip to England for an hour or two. The Queen Charlotte Tea Room is one of the top rated spots for an authentic English tea experience. There are a few options when it comes to afternoon tea in the Niagara Region. This tea room just happened to have been a 10 minute walk from my Airbnb so it was an easy decision to check this one out during my stay. This tea room was named after the great-great-great-great grandmother of the current monarch Queen Elizabeth II.
My reservation was right at opening time, so we were one of the first guests to be greeted through the doors that day. Therefore, we had the opportunity to walk throughout the place to check it out before our server came to our table. There are three seating sections in this English home, with a maximum of 40 guests allowed. Of course, Queen Charlotte was prominent throughout. Across from the entrance is a fireplace with a large framed photo of the queen standing on the mantel. There was also a large photo of her on the outside of the building, as if she were welcoming each guest that passed by.
The tea room was canvased in wallpaper, lined with dark carpeting, and filled with wood chairs and tables covered with table clothes and floral runners. The old style decor works well in this atmosphere. Other members of the Royal Family are photographed throughout the tea room, too.
We were directed to the left of the entrance, towards a few steps. Then, we were seated at the second level, right in the corner by the check out counter that was also filled with imported British foods and sweets for sale. I was excited to get to try a Curly Wurly!
One of the most lovely servers greeted us at our table and took our tea order. They had a selection of over 20 teas and blends. Before our arrival, the table was prepared with mismatched vintage teacups, cutlery and sugar. The server only had to bring out a big pot of tea (in a tea cozy, too!) and a tea strainer as loose leaf tea was used. A pot of tea ranges from $3.25-$10.00, depending on how many tea sippers it is for.
The Queen Charlotte Tea Room offers quite a selection on their menu. You can opt for a traditional Afternoon Cream Tea ($11.50) or High Tea ($24.95). You can also pair your cuppa with something more hearty like Shepard’s Pie or traditional English dish like their famous fish and chips. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available, too. If you want to experience their High Tea, you must reserve that 24 hours in advance. Unfortunately, I missed that memo. Therefore, I ordered their Cheese and Alfalfa Sandwich ($8.95) which came with a side garden salad and housemade dressing. I originally wanted one of their 4 paninis, but was informed they were not available that day.
All of the sandwiches at The Queen Charlotte Tea Room are served on homemade bread. So, I was absolutely in heaven when I took the first bite. Once my order was brought to the table, I instantly smelled the freshness. The bread was soft inside, slightly crispy and buttery on the outside. I almost forgot it was filled with other items. You can view their full menu here.
I still had a few steeps left of the Yorkshire Harrogate tea I ordered so I decided to indulge in their Afternoon Cream Tea service ($11.50). This consisted of 2 scones (I took one home for later), preserves and Devonshire cream. Typically this comes with a pot of tea, but I already had one. As a result, the server kindly made a change on my bill. If you’re feeling like dessert after your meal, they also have a shelf with British pies and cakes such as their very popular Sticky Toffee Pudding. Overall, my meal plus the cream tea was a nice alternative to their “High Tea” service.
The Queen Charlotte Tea Room is open Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 7pm and 8pm on Fridays. Next time you’re wine touring in the Niagara Region, plan for a tea break at this tea room!
Visit Queen Charlotte Tea Room:
5689 Main Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2G 5Z3
www.thequeencharlottetearoom.com
*If you plan to visit, reservations via website or phone are recommended. Furthermore, if you wish to enjoy their “high tea” service or gluten free options, please order that in advance.
**Prices and tea/food options may change. All were accurate at the date of this tea room review.