When was the last time you took time to really relax, enjoy good company and end it all with a gripping musical performance? As I drove up the long gravel driveway up to the master crafted Victorian home that was built back in the late 1840′s, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The last time I had the opportunity to have afternoon tea I was somewhere between St Lucia and Antigua on a 100,000 ton cruise ship (The Crown Princess), but Caron and our girls refused to leave the pool deck area to join me, so I ended up not going. Today I was going to experience what I missed that vacation, even if it did mean I was going solo.
As I parked my car in the grassy area at the front of the house, I looked around and was caught up in the moment. The country setting, with the wheat fields to the right, the sort of barn-like building to the left and the pleasant sound of birds singing in the trees instantly gave a sort of calmness I’d not felt in years. Add the wind blowing though the wheat fields and it could easily be the setting for a Hollywood movie.
The Opera House Tea Room is the everyday home of Frank Pierce and his family, which is converted to a charming tea house (Thursday, Friday and Saturday). Where visitors get the opportunity to be transformed back in time for a couple hours and enjoy light refreshments on fine China and silverware, while enjoying excellent service and great company.
I was greeted by Frank at the door when I arrived as he was expecting me and I immediately got the most welcoming feeling ever (the sort of feeling you get when you meet with a long lost relative). His smile, firm handshake and pride in describing what they try to accomplish at the Opera House Tea Room, all pointed to a person who enjoyed what he was doing. After a brief chat and tour, I went on my own to get the true vibe for the establishment and take pics. Plus I could tell that I was keeping him back from his guests, so I really didn’t want to take up much more of his time.
As you walk through the home you couldn’t miss the extensive oak and cherry woodwork throughout the older part of the house. The grand staircase as you made your way to the parlour from one of the dining rooms gave a true sense of the age and majesty of the house and the gentle creaking of the red pine floors under your feet reminded you of the craftsmanship that went into the building. The elegance of the decorations and furnishing really added to the overall experience. From the fresh cut flowers, lit candles and antiques scattered purposely throughout the house, you almost felt like royalty.
It was a packed house this day as I would estimate there were over 30 people in attendance and though this was someones home, you never felt crowded. You couldn’t miss the smiles on the faces, the friendly chatter and inquisitive eyes while I was taking pictures. Some of the patrons explained to me that this sort of a tradition with them, as they’ve been meeting here for several years now. Repeat business can only mean, pleased customers I would assume. Frank later explained to me that they’ve never done any sort of advertising, yet they’re always busy and it’s advised to get a reservation at least a week in advanced. Word of mouth is what generates business for the Pierce family and from the packed house one could easily see that they’ve tapped into an excellent niche, with the service they offer.
What would a review be without mention of the food? One could not miss the alluring scent of food as you entered the doors and immediately you stumble upon a fabulous spread of finger sandwiches, pickled vegetables, quiche tarts, Scottish shortbread and how could I forget the tea biscuits with preserves and double Devon cream. You must try the chicken Waldorf! Though I didn’t actually have any of the tea, the people that I spoke with were quite happy with the quality of the tea and one person remarked “it tastes so much better in these fancy cups”. After what could be describe as lunch, everyone then heads over to the parlour where recitals are performed by Soprano Erin Bree Pierce accompanied by Frank on the piano. Erin who’s Franks daughter is simply amazing and quite gripping as she captivates the audience with her phenomenal voice and the energy she puts into her performance.
Guests are then treated to yet another fantastic spread, but this time it’s an assortment of decadent desserts… cheese cake squares, fresh strawberries, balled melons, English raspberry trifle and tarts.
Not to be outdone, the garden on the outside is just as spectacular and very serene. A place I would gladly grab a book, cup of tea and spend a few hours (take a look at the pics above).
So who goes for afternoon tea? Just about any and everyone. Though this day the crowd did seem a bit older Frank did mention that they see a lot of younger single people, couples and young families on a regular basis. Additionally they cater to many social events like birthdays, anniversaries, wedding showers, groups (only recently they had a travel group) and they also offer off site catering as well.
For more info on the Opera House Tea Room, including the menu, days of operation, off site catering and how you can plan you next visit you have a couple options. Below is the contact phone number and you can also browse their website where everything is listed.
The Opera House Tea Room
2844 Governor’s Road
Lynden, Ontario L0R 1T0
(519)647-3174
Remember to ask for Frank Pierce and mention that Chris from Ontario Alive sent you.
The Opera House Tea Room website: http://www.operahousetearoom.com
Getting there:
I’d like to say special thanks to Frank and Erin for making this such a wonderful experience for me and our readers.
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