Cafe Review: Chantilly Cream Vintage Tea Shop

On the menu: If you feel like something special, visit this new tea shop to enjoy a traditional High Tea. Or choose the Devonshire Tea. Other choices include home-made paninis, vegetable tarts, club sandwiches and a mouth-watering range of scrumptious cakes and other sweet treats.

The buzz: Forget the funky cafes around town for a while, and take some time out to enjoy this charming little vintage tea shop. Once you step inside, it is all in the details. We loved the antique fine china tea sets, old-fashioned tablecloths, pretty teaspoons, fresh lavender on the table and, above all, we couldn't stop raving about the cute and colourful tea cosies - all lovingly knitted by owner Philippa's mum.

We'll share: We couldn't wait to try the High Tea ($19.50 a person).

Out came a three-tier cake stand. On the bottom plate were freshly baked scones served with chantilly cream, berry jam and lemon curd. In the middle were some beautiful sandwiches, two small savoury tarts and - my favourite - crostini with caramelised onion and blue cheese, topped with fresh coriander. On the top tray were some gorgeous sweet treats and fresh strawberries.

To drink: There is a tea to suit every taste on the menu and it is only $3.90 for a pot of Harney & Sons fine tea.

We chose Paris, a delicious black tea with hints of vanilla, caramel and a hint of lemony bergamot. It was served on a tray in a china teapot with one of those cute cosies on top.

As well as tea, Chantilly Cream serves Inca Fe organic coffee, assorted soft drinks, banana, mango or mixed berry smoothies ($5.50), and cola, lime, lemonade or raspberry icecream sodas ($4.50).

The staff: Owners Philippa and Bruce Murrell and their team are absolutely lovely. It was great to hear how they had collected all the vintage artefacts that adorn the cafe, and we are glad that they had the guts to open up something this different in downtown Tauranga.

The verdict: We love how traditional things, like enjoying a great pot of tea in a quaint setting, are becoming popular again. It's all about not feeling rushed, good company, a fabulous atmosphere, and amazing tea. We'll be back.

The details:

Chantilly Cream Vintage Tea Shop

130 Devonport Rd

(07) 578 1326

Open Monday to Saturday