It’s tea time in the Hill Country. Drink in the atmosphere and ambiance of Alexandra’s Tea House in Kerrville and Queen B’s English Tearoom and Antiques in Ingram. Little girls love tea parties and they grow up into big girls who love tea parties! Men may be more familiar with tee times than tea, but if you enjoy restful surroundings and hearty, good food, you’ll want to hear about this, too.

Whether it’s quiet time alone, friends chatting over lunch or executives holding a business meeting, the popularity of tea rooms has spread like clotted cream on warm scones.

The art of taking tea is perfected in these tea rooms, each of which is unique in its characteristics, surroundings, menus and flair. What each has in common is the ceremony - white tablecloths, thick napkins, china pots and cups - which along with all the finer accoutrements, provides an authentic experience.

Alexandra’s Tea House is located on Memorial Blvd in Kerrville, beside Schreiner University. Wrought iron gates lead down the lane to a rock cottage upscaled by a front wooden deck with outdoor, umbrella-topped tables. In the parlor, a prelude of things to come, the outside world melts away. A Russian brass samovar and tea service adorn a table, set amid comfortable couches and chairs. Perched with prominence, a beautiful mounted peacock sets a regal tone.

Owner Alexandra Hosmer, named for her grandfather, but called Sandy by everyone, welcomes you. If you wish to cozy up in the parlor with a book or your knitting, beautiful little tables are whisked out, graciously set with white cloth, napkins and tea service.

Or, proceed to the quiet and soothing tea room, with its wall of windows looking out onto a serene scene where deer are often spotted. Ahhh, hushed conversation and the chink of cups and saucers lulls you into a relaxed state. A smaller sunroom adjoins the main dining room and tea can be taken there as well.

“The decor c ...

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