The Dining Room Restaurant at Buchart Gardens, Brentwood, BC

Visited: June, 2005.  Reviewed: June, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea.  Type of tea: Loose leaf.  Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Butchart Gardens provides one of the finest afternoon teas in North America, set amongst the splendor of its magnificent gardens. The Dining Room Restaurant offers both lunch and afternoon tea, beginning at noon, in this former residence of the Butcharts. A fresh fruit cup precedes the traditional courses of tea sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Each course was delicious, with special mention for the abundant and delicious assortment of savories. Not only were 5 tea sandwiches offered, but there was also a miniature quiche and a delicious sausage roll. This course was followed by 2 small scones, and then a selection of pastries ranging from fruit tart to 4-layer cake. The sweetest ending was a gift box containing a homemade chocolate truffle. Several selections of tea were offered, amongst which 4 unique teas were blended specifically for Butchart Gardens. From start to finish, a sublime experience.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: hsv tea lover  Add your review   

Visited: August, 2004.  Reviewed: February, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea.  Type of tea served: Loose.  Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Our family loves going to tea and we have visited many tea houses in the U.S. We found Buchart Gardens to be one of the best. Though not a "traditional" teahouse filled with antiques and teapots, the ambiance far surpasses those in the States. The service was impeccable; the tea and food absolutely divine. We were able to visit the gift shop later and purchase the tea we drank. We went to tea at the Fairmont Empress the next day and were sadly disappointed after Buchart. Overpriced, over-stuffy and food I wouldn't write home about was unenjoyable. We
are going back to Victoria in 5/2005 and are DEFINITELY heading back to
Buchart ... not for the flowers, but for the tea.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: danielwittman  Add your review   

Visited: May, 2001
Meal: Afternoon tea.  Type of tea served: Loose.  Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I've been to the Tea Room at Buchart Gardens many times and have enjoyed it every time. The ambiance is wonderful, you feel you are in a Victorian greenhouse, surrounded by plants both outside the large windows and inside on the window sills. Around Christmas time the decorations are cheerful and tasteful, and a cosy fire in the large wood fireplace crackles in the background. The food is always yummy. I recommend the Bachelor Button tea -- a blend of China teas, bergamot, and the petals of bachelor button flowers (blue cornflowers). This tea seems to be unique to Buchart Gardens, but you can purchase some to take home from the gift shop.
Reviewer: Clara Johnson  Add your review   

Twisted Sisters Tea Room, Chemainus, BC

Visited: March, 2005.  Reviewed: July, 2005.
Meal: Lunch.  Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags.  Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I was attending a school on thetis island and would go there for tea and lunch often. The environment is lovely very well decorated. The sisters are very welcomign and provide very good service. If you looking for a place that you will feel  very comfortable in this is it. They also have excelent deserts so really there is no down side to the twisted sisters all should go!
goback Yes, can't wait!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: kaner5189  Add your review   

Visited: April, 2005.  Reviewed: May, 2005.
Meal: Supper.  Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags.  Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Finding the Twisted Sisters' Tea Room is an adventure indeed. One must meander through the streets of Old Chemainus, past historic murals and turn of the century houses, to Frank and Bonnie's gift shop. There in the back of the shop is a gem of a tea room where one is made to feel instantly welcome. The sisters who operate the tea room have a fine appreciation of the finer points of a proper British tea (being British born themselves); so, whether you have "elevenses" or high [sic] tea, it is always done right. There were over 60 varieties of loose and bagged tea available when I visited and I was told more varieties were on order. A truely delightful experience!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Nancy G.  Add your review    

House of Leaves at Bamboozle, Coombs, BC

Visited: June, 2008.  Meal: Just a cuppa.  Type of tea: Loose leaf.  Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: n/a.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: A definite "must stop" for anyone who loves tea. This shop offers 2 daily samples that change throughout the week for patrons as they browse the ecclectic gift shop. Loose tea and bagged are available. Summer of Strawberry a loose green tea is my absolute fav - this week!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: ld2005 7/08  Add your review

Applewood Country Gifts, Tearoom, & Bakery, Delta, BC

Visited: May, 2007.  Reviewed: June, 2007.
Meal: Retail only.  Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags.  Served: n/a.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: n/a.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Applewood is the ultimate destination for all ages. It was wonderful to take my aunt out for tea when she visited fromt the island. The staff engaged in delightful conversation bringing back wonderful childhood memories for my aunt. What a wonderful way to learn one's family history!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: Local Tea Lover  Add your review

Visited: May, 2005.  Reviewed: May, 2005.
Meal: Cream tea.  Type of tea: Loose leaf.  Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We have always said that our 7 year old grand daughter is the queen of tea parties. During her recent 3-day visit with us we took her on a daily "tea tour" to tea rooms in our area. Of the 3 tearooms visited we all agreed the best was Applewood. It exceeded all expectations! We loved the elegant surroundings. We ordered tea, cinnamon buns and scones with Devonshire cream and jam. Applewood also offers a mirrored area replete with hats, ties, jewellery and other accessories for young customers to dress up their outfits. Five stars!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: DMCazes  Add your review    

The Royal Victorian Tea House, Kamloops, BC

Visited: September, 2007.  Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Visiting the tea house is somthing that I do with my young daughter every couple of months. This a special time just for the two of us. The service is wonderful, the tea is hot and the food is great. My brother's GF was visiting in the Summer from New York as well so along with mother and her friend we were able to do a day with girls and go for high [sic] tea. it was wonderful.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: Dannielle 2/08  Add your review 

Visited: June, 2006.  Reviewed: October, 2006.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I moved to Kamloops from Victoria BC, where I have dined in, and worked in tea rooms. This tea room is not only a beautifully, and lovingly restored heritage building, but the food and service were wonderful. I had their home-made soup and scone. The soup was a delicious Thai chicken soup, and I still believe that this is the best soup that I have ever had, sorry dad. Not a detail was missed! Our loose-leaf tea was served piping hot in individual tea pots. My sister had the house salad which tasted delicious. The prices are reasonable and the quality of atmosphere, service, and food are high.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: V.B.  Add your review  

Zack's Exotic Coffees & Teas, Kamloops, BC

Visited: August, 2008.  Meal: Dessert tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I have been there on a few occasions and they have certain items that are addictive such as the Zack's Ice Tea and Mia Chai Tea Latte. Best I have ever had.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: Susie  9/08  Add your review  

The Royal Empress' Tea House, Prince George, BC

Visited: April, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This Tea House was recommended to us by friends who had been there. Not only were we pleasantly surprised, the entire experience was one we will not forget. The staff were friendly and courteous, the High [sic] Tea we ordered was simply superb. It rivalled another High [sic] Tea we had at another Tea room in Victoria. The Tea House was "Packed" with customers which made for a wonderful experience.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Retired Traveller 5/08  Add your review    

Blue Teapot, Richmond/Vancouver, BC

Visited: January, 2005.  Reviewed: July, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teacup.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This store sells every tea i can think of from honeybush to green tea and even a great price on Macha. This store has a great enviroment and has excellent teapots. This store is very popular with the locals but tourists need to visit this wonderful store. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: Mr. Tea Man  Add your review   

Blue Teapot,  North Vancouver, BC

Visited: June, 2005.  Reviewed: July, 2005.
Meal: Retail shop only. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: n/a.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: n/a.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tea store met all my tea needs. It has everything i want in a tea store besides serving tea. The staff was helpfull and considerate. I spilt a honeystick all over myself and the cashier was quick to give me a paper towell. I didn't even have to ask. I love the full quality of the tea and cannot wait to buy more tea. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait! 
Reviewer: Mr. Tea Man  Add your review  . 

Herbal Republic, Vancouver, BC

Visited: August, 2003
Meal: Retail shop only. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: --  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I visited the store about a year ago after reading the reviews here and it has been my favourite tea source ever since! Just can't help but rave about it to all my friends who have also became regulars there now. This is the place to go for real quality stuff, and I mean it because I've tried many other tea places. Their quality is exceptional and consistent. For green tea lovers, I will recommend their Japanese green teas which were flown in from the tea gardens in Japan. And not to mention that they probably have the largest collection of rooibos in North America -- mostly blended with organic rooibos!
Reviewer: JimmyS.  Add your review  .  

Visited: February, 2001
Tea: Excellent.  Food: --  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This is the best tea shop in Vancouver, perhaps the best shop I have visited yet ... anywhere! They carry a fine selection of tea and accessories, imported from all over the world. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and always have a delicious tea brewing for all customers to sample!
Reviewer: shakti_mama@hotmail.com  Add your review  . 

Visited: January, 2000
Tea: Excellent.  Food: --  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tea shop is simply great. Clean and modern décor with a huge selection of teas! Their Earl Grey with Blue Flowers is lovely. Another one is their Silver Needles from China, light and smoky. I've purchased a German glass teapot with infuser and it works great for both teas. They have such a huge selection of teas as well as tea utensils that I have to recommend them to tea lovers all there!
Reviewer: Bob Cook, Vancouver Add your review  . 

The Secret Garden Tea Company, Vancouver, BC

Visited: October, 2005.  Reviewed: November, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: There were many people dining at the same time as us and the noise level was very loud. At times you couldn't hear the person across the table from you. That was the only disappointment.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Myrtle Add your review   

Visited: July, 2004.  Reviewed: November, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tea shop has a classic comfort that takes you right out of the city. The service, food, and tea are perfect every time. I have never had a bad experience there and the staff and owners work hard to ensure that doesn't happen. I also purchase their bags of loose tea for home as well.
Reviewer: a very happy customer Add your review   

Visited: July, 2000
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The Secret Garden Tea Company is a very cozy place to spend an hour or so. Reservations for afternoon tea have to be made a day in advance. The food is made fresh each day, and the menu for the afternoon tea will be different each time you visit. They have a fun selection of tea and the food is fabulous.
Reviewer: rkt@canada.com Add your review    

Steeps Urban Teahouse, Vancouver, BC

Visited: January, 2005.  Reviewed: February, 2005.
Meal: No meal, just a cuppa. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Steeps does not do afternoon tea in the traditional sense. You can though, get a great scone and even better pot of tea at any of the 5 teahouses - I've been to all of them, and I must say, they have the most impressive selection of teas that I have seen anywhere, and the quality as well. The new Broadway store in Vancouver is simply gorgeous.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: A budding tea afficianado Add your review    

Sweet Revenge Patisserie, Vancouver, BC

Visited: July, 2005.  Reviewed: July, 2005.
Meal: Private party. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: If you closed your eyes and imagined yourself back in the 1900's you would arrive at Sweet Revenge, (with modern flavor/tacky thrown in as license plates on the wall) The ambiance of this quaint tea room is an experice I endure the majority of my friends (this has become a generational thing in our new friendships; to enjoy a hot beverage and delicous dessert at this grand tea room) No matter what your liking (starbucks or JJ Bean) this independant tea palace is a remarkable place to cozy up on one of their couches (my great grandmother had similar ones) and lose yourself in a conversation.
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Alexandra Add your review    

Visited: May, 2003
Meal: No meal, just a cuppa. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent. Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This is not exactly a teahouse as the settings suggest (they also serve alcohol). However, the desserts and ambiance are nice. Small but decent selection of teas, including the South African rooibos. Interesting atmosphere, with 70-year-old grandmas sipping tea next to some Asian teens and a big group of lesbians.
Reviewer: Yee Add your review    

Visited: November, 2002
Meal: No meal, just a cuppa. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Fair. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: The décor tries to be old-world and classic, but borders a touch on the tacky side -- red trims, cheap laces, odd pictures. The teas were average, decent choice of blends. The desserts were not very good. One friend had berries and cream which you can't do much wrong to, but three of us had cakes (a lemon pound cake, and a chocolate cake) and they were rather dry, like they'd been made a few days ago. The most off-putting thing was the prominent message on the front of the menu about there being a minimum order and a maximum amount of time you could stay and drink and eat. (I believe it was minimum $5 order and maximum 90 minute stay). What a way to welcome a customer. Starbucks will let you order a $1 tea and stay all day. 
Reviewer: Nancy Add your review       

"T", Vancouver, BC

Visited: November, 2005.  Reviewed: November, 2005.
Meal: No meal, just a cuppa. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: n/a.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: We had stopped in for tea and scones but unfortunately they do not currently have a supplier of devonshire cream so we just had tea. The staff are very pleasant but because it's in a store setting the noise of walk in customers can be a bit distracting. You don't really feel like you're sitting down for a nice relaxing cuppa.
Would you go back? Maybe.
Reviewer: Myrtle  Add your review.  

Visited: September, 2004.  Reviewed: September, 2004.
Meal: No meal, just a cuppa. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: n/a.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I was recommended by friends to visit T when I'm in Vancouver, but it turned out to be somewhat disappointing. The teas were of average quality, but prices were sky high -- starting at $15 for a small 100g tin. The place is nicely decorated though, and packaging is nice with colourful labels on a dark black tin. So I figured you are paying more for the "package" (décor/packaging) rather than the actual product in this case, and maybe the "prestige" of thinking that you're drinking the teas served in all those high end hotels. I agree with the other reviewer that there are lots of better, more reasonably priced tea merchants out in the market, and in Vancouver alone, you can find at least two other tea places near T where everything is reasonably priced with exceptional quality.  It's really worth the effort of doing a bit of research!
Reviewer: Bobbie  Add your review.  

Visited: February, 2003
Meal: Retail shop only. Type of tea: Loose leaf. 
Tea: Excellent.  Food: n/a.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This is the boutique where you can buy some of the "T" blends served at their clients (Four Seasons New York and North America wide, Regent Beverly Wilshire, Jean Georges, Ritz Carlton Las Vegas, Ritz Carlton New York, Grand Hyatt Dubai, and Park Hyatt Chicago, among others). 
Reviewer: Chan  Add your review  .  

Visited: April, 1999
Tea: Good.  Food: Good.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: I just want to let my fellow tea drinkers and especially tea drinking surfers who want to buy from the web that the T shop's prices are quite high - and they can find much better dealers elsewhere (even in Canada!). If you will allow me I would highly recommend Capital Tea in Ontario. I am presently in Alberta and they sent me wonderful tea and they have a great web site.  
Reviewer: Oliver Hockenhull  Add your review  .

Blethering Place Tea Room and Restaurant, Victoria, BC

Visited: June, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Good.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: This tea room/restaurant is a very cute place with a cute little shop attached. Rather hot in the summer, which lessened the enjoyment of the experience somewhat. Pricing was a little high for what was presented. The scone, cream, and preserves were excellent, as was the sandwich selection. Only one type of tea was offered (bagged. The presentation of the food was only fair as all of the selections were crammed onto one large plate. We were given one toasted crumpet and a "pizza" crumpet. The smell of the oregano and tomato sauce was so overpowering we were forced to ask our server to remove it. We learned that most of the items were NOT prepared on site. This may have been a blessing, since any cook who thinks a pizza crumpet belongs on top of a scone probably should not be baking sweets and savories. Overall a fairly enjoyable experience, but there is certainly room for improvement.
Would you go back? Maybe.
Reviewer: Granny's girl 8/08  Add your review  .    

Visited: January, 2006.  Reviewed: November, 2006.
Meal: Lunch. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Poor.  Food: Poor.  Service: Poor.  Appearance: Poor.
Comments: I live in the area, and feel for the patrons who don't know the horrible reputation of this place. It has a charming exterior which fools the unwary - it is just awful, and I truly wish someone would buy it nd turn it around. The two times I have been, I was served the worst food I have had anywhere- congealed soup, and microwaved rubber chicken stuffed with cheddar. It was revolting. Go to the White Heather down the road and experience fine service, fine food and pride in excellence.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Madeleine  Add your review  .    

Visited: June, 2006.  Reviewed: October, 2006.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf and teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: I didn't find the restaurant as poor as others indicated. It was very nice, especially for the price, only $15.00 Canadian. I suppose if I wanted exemplary service, I would take tea at the Empress for  $60.00 instead. I was told locals take tea there as well. Service was very good. Food was more than adequate and good. Of everything served I found the scones most wanting. Otherwise, I can't really complain.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: Suzan H.  Add your review  .    

Visited: December, 2005.  Reviewed: December, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Poor.  Food: Good.  Service: Poor.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: It is interesting that another reviewer indicated that this restaurant receives many tourists from tour buses because this is a definitely a tourist trap! Perhaps in early 2000, it was a nice place to go for afternoon tea; however, I think this place is past its prime when we went there late in 2005. 
The service was extremely poor - they consistently took a very long time to take our order, to actually receive our order and finally our bill ... only to find out the waitress over charged us for the tea and Devonshire cream. The place from the outside looked very quaint, however, from the inside, it looked dingy and tacky and not particularly clean. 
The tea was terrible as it watered down too much and the selection and quality of teas were disappointing and  commercial i.e. Tetley and Higgins and Burke tea. You would think a tea place would excel in making a cup of tea but think again! To be fair though, the scone was freshly baked and the strawberry jam was very good, although, we did have to remind our waitress to bring the jam which should have come with our order! We did not order the full afternoon tea set but as you can probably tell, we were very happy that we didn't. We did have a look at another table's order and it didn't look like anything special. You'd be much better off going to the White Heather Tea room which is 4 blocks up the street. 
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Glenda  Add your review  .    

Visited: August, 2004.  Reviewed: February, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Fair.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: The Blethering Place is visited by many organized tours, and it shows. The service, although friendly, is harried and perfunctory. This place is large and bustling, with crowded tables and children running around between guests. The menu is huge, clearly trying satisfy as many tastes as possible. On the plus side, this is a place you can bring a guy who hates tea. He'll feel like he's indulging you with minimal discomfort to him. For a quieter, more relaxing tea with wonderful food in an unstuffy setting, I recommend the White Heather, just down the street.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Gardyloo  Add your review  .    

Visited: March, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We always take tea here on every trip. Once again it was FABULOUS! This tea room is in an old Tudor style heritage building. The décor and ambiance were lovely, with fresh flowers on the table and lovely Victorian music in the background. 
My one suggestion would be to order the "Tea Biscuits" with fresh preserves and Devon cream rather than the scones. They are much tastier and larger. The sherry trifle was also out of this world and the tea was divine.
Add some wonderful and friendly service and you have an afternoon of heaven!
Reviewer: Kim  Add your review  .    

Visited: June, 2001
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: We've been to Blethering Place Tea Room for afternoon tea twice in the past two years (it's 2,000 miles from home) and enjoyed it both times. The tea (Higgins & Burke decaf Orange Pekoe) was full-bodied and flavorful. The scones were heavenly! Service was prompt and amiable. The tea room is a comfortable and congenial setting. Hard to beat!
Reviewer: dmoorman4@home.com  Add your review  . 

Visited: May, 2001
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Good.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I have been to this tea room at least three times on different visits to Victoria and have never been disappointed. I was extremely disappointed at the Empress and its afternoon tea, however, which was overpriced and very snotty. The Empress is for tourists who don't really drink tea, but want to be seen in a nice setting. For a real cuppa, go to the Blethering Place! 
Reviewer: library_diva@yahoo.com  Add your review  . 

Visited: May, 1999
Tea: Poor.  Food: Poor.  Service: Fair.  Appearance: Fair.
Comments: I was soooo disappointed with the tea experience here! It was the first time I'd been able to convince my family to take afternoon tea and it was terrible. The atmosphere is much like Denny's Restaurant, not the beautiful, quaint "tea" atmosphere I enjoy. The food might have been good, except it appeared as though it had been sitting out much, much too long and was far from fresh. The tea was not loose, but in teabags. Their background music was a five-piece band with horns and drums! It was so loud! My father really enjoyed that part and he opted to have a meal rather than tea so he really enjoyed it. I had expected so much more from tea in Victoria, B.C. Next time, I'm going to wear something nice and head to the Empress for afternoon tea (hopefully for a much better experience).
Reviewer: Angela Morrison  Add your review  .  

Empress Hotel, Victoria, BC

Visited: August, 2004.  Reviewed: November, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Our server seemed to be quite distracted and impersonal but we just ignored it and made sure we enjoyed ourselves ... which we did! Definitely something every tea lover should experience at least once in a lifetime. The only place better I've been is The Ritz in London.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: Myrtle  Add your review      

Visited: July, 2005.  Reviewed: August, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My sister and I visited for a tea arranged by the Princess Cruise line as part of a shore excursion. Approximately 60 people were excorted to the tea room with elegantly appointed Queen Victoria patterned china and all of the accoutrements. Some may say it is a bit pricey but how often do you have the chance to experience such a lovely afternoon in Victoria. This was not light fare. First, you are served the most fabulous tea from a silver tea service that you must have two hands to lift, which is why you should only allow the servers to pour. Next, you are served with fresh strawberries in crystal-stemmed dessert dish topped with a dollop of cream and a fresh gooseberry. The traditional courses are then served on beautiful three tiered serving dishes with five different kinds of finger sandwiches on the lower tray (the none-sweet course.) You eat from bottom to top. Next is the dish with scones, clotted cream, jams, melon wrapped in prociutto, dark chocolate truffles and short bread cookies (the semi-sweet fare.) Last was the  course  with very sweet items such as small eclairs, tarts and such. I noticed most were not able to finish this course as by this stage of the Tea, you have reached your limit of food consumption. One does not usually associate a Tea with getting full, but you do. It was a truly elegant and relaxing experience sitting back in luxurious wing back chairs, sipping wonderful tea from beautiful cups and looking out over the bay watching the sun set. Doesn't get better that this. 
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Deborah Massenburg!  Add your review      

Visited: March, 2005.  Reviewed: June, 2005.
Meal: Special event. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: My mother and i went there on our annual Mother/Daughter holiday. We wanted to go to The Empress for something and feel "important", we always walk past it and see all the people in their fancy outfits and thought why not us too. We made the arrangements and were'nt sure what to expect for $40 each. Well, lets just say we were very pleased. You walk in and feel like the queen of England, i especially enjoyed the server asking if i would like "one lump or 2" (i've always wanted someone to ask me that). There is a wonderful pianist playing and the view of the harbour is amazing. Oh, and don't let the tiny food stop you from going because trust me, you'll get full. The tea is to die for and now i crave it everytime i drink the regular name brand kind. A wonderful experience, but not a daily one as you might burn a hole in your pocket!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Glad to have Gone!!  Add your review      

Visited: December, 2004.  Reviewed: April, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: As a tea room owner, I always enjoy the chance to visit other establishments and take tea. Many times, my tea room guests ask if I have taken tea at the Empress, so we just *had* to go! I understand during spring and summer, the place is swamped with tourists and maybe can't live up to its reputation due to the crush brought by tour buses; however, we were not disappointed. My husband and I went right before Christmas, so the tea lobby was all decked out in holiday décor, complete with carolers! The service was impeccable, the food beautiful and delicious, and the tea expertly prepared. The waiter graciously accommodated our every request promptly, with a smile. The setting was elegant, the pace gracious and relaxed. Of course, the price was higher than most establishments, but for a "must-do", that's fine. We were presented with two tins of the house tea with our cheque. My only complaint is the reservation clerk made a point to explain the dress code (coat/tie for the gents, dressy pants or dresses for the ladies), yet the party next to us included teens/20-somethings with their midriffs a-bulge over hip-hugger jeans. I did not hesitate to make note on the comment card provided!
Would you go back? Yes, can't wait!
Reviewer: Jane Ujhazi, The Tea Cosy, Bandon, OR  Add your review      

Visited: May, 2003.  Reviewed: February, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Good.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: The Empress is absolutely beautiful, the service was good but
hustly-bustly, and our food was quite good. Everyone has to do this once. The downside, is because everyone DOES have to do this once, the crowds are huge, with many large tour groups. I think Grey Line has this as a stop on several of
their tours. There is great pressure to eat and run, so the next group can get in
(even if you're there on your own). That said, the food is delicious. Yummy blueberries, strawberries, and cream. Tasty desserts. The only tea offered was the Empress Blend, which is a good orange pekoe type tea.
Would you go back? Maybe.
Reviewer: Gardyloo  Add your review      

Visited: September, 2003.  Reviewed: December, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I treated eight family members to tea at the Empress - making sure of our reservations by booking our tea six months in advance of a holiday in Victoria. The food, service, atmosphere were all magnificent, but I had two low-lights of the visit. The LINES, or hordes, or people waiting for tables (we arrived 20-30 minutes early) was amazing. Since we were first in line we actually had the opportunity to have our 80+ year-old family members sit in chairs at the front. They very definitely get people OUT at the assigned hour, to get the next group IN at their assigned hour! And I had read in someone else's review of the assembly line. Yes, the food was excellent, but the server seemed so rushed and automated, as if following the script (which I am sure he was) -- berries and cream down, pour tea, berries and cream up, may I take a photo? etc. it was just a bit too surreal and not at all relaxing for my $500+ investment. I don't see a need to return, not for the afternoon tea. There are more  comfortable and warm, relaxed places to enjoy time with family on Vancouver 
Island.
Reviewer: PLSV  Add your review      

Visited: September, 2004.  Reviewed: October, 2004.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Tea at The Empress was at the top of my ""to do"" list when we decided to spend our holiday in Victoria. I must say I was not disappointed. The room is exquisite, with a beautiful view of the harbor. 
Reviewer: Mr and Mrs S.  Add your review      

Visited: August, 2003
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Four of us visited Victoria and the Butchart Gardens on a Saturday. The Empress was very busy when we arrived at our reserved time, but we were seated immediately. Bowls of blueberries and trays of sandwiches were on view as we entered, looking like a production line that would result in dry, stale food.  However, everything tasted very fresh and delicious, and the service couldn't have been nicer. This experience rated right up there with other exceptional tea experiences, such as at the Ritz Carlton Hotels.
Reviewer: PCBS grad  Add your review      

Visited: August, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: I treated my ten year old daughter to noon tea as the close of a long vacation. I was pleasantly surprised to find the Empress wait staff very friendly, informative, helpful, and not "snotty" nor snobby, even when you drop the sugar tongs. We began with blueberries and Jersey cream -- delicious. The finger sandwiches were varied and tasty. Nobody cared if my daughter used the wrong spoon and a girl at the next table was slouching, sucking on a sugar cube. In the next room was a biker dressed in his best leather and chains having tea. The atmosphere was great. We had a blast, in a very subdued manner. Many quiet laughs and wonderful memories. The Empress is no longer the domain of blue hairs, thank goodness. 
Reviewer: Sonna Waldron  Add your review    

Visited: December, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: December 23, 2002 found my daughters and me taking tea at the Empress Hotel located on the Inner Harbor in Victoria, B.C. Having heard different opinions about the afternoon tea served here, I had mixed feelings about it. Our reservations were for 12.30pm and we arrived there 15 minutes early to find ourselves fifth in line. I asked for a special seat and the hostess said there are a few possibilities. We were seated next to the window with a view of the Inner Harbor. My daughters and myself were dressed the best we could be. Our server Paul, was the ultimate professional. We began with a mixed fresh fruit cup with a gooseberry and edible skin. Our Empress Tea was a blend of China, Indian, Kenya, and Ceylon teas. Perhaps it is a secret since they declined to tell us what types. We had a three tier plate with smoked salmon, egg salad, cucumber and mayo, and cream cheese with carrot and ginger. These were replenished if we wished. The raisin scone was replete with golden and dark raisins. Accompanying them were Wilkins and Sons Strawberry Preserves and Jersey Cream. The third tier held mince tart, shortbread, Christmas cake (fruitcake), and a fresh fruit tart. In the background a piano played Christmas carols and carolers serenaded us. The china was by Royal Doulton made expressly for the Fairmont Empress, having been first used by the hotel in 1939 for the royal visit of Queen Elizabeth and King George the Sixth. The tea was a tea drinker's dream come true. Our cups were filled whenever they were near empty. The food was superb and the old world atmosphere was warm and relaxing. The price of the tea was $39 Canadian, roughly $26 American. Taxes and gratuities not included. The Empress has been serving tea since 1908 and have perfected the art. It is worth the sojourn to the beautiful city of Victoria, taking you back to the era of traditional Victorian and Edwardian times. Cheers to a splendid tea room. 
Reviewer: Carole H. King, Tea Lady  Add your review   

isited: March, before 1999
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Poor.  Service: Poor.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: The tea was served nice and hot and included lemon, cream, sugar, and also plain hot water for you to water down the tea if you like. The tea sandwiches where very dry and tasteless, the scones like the tea was very dry. The waiter was not friendly and not helpful when we requested more tea which he never brought us. The tea room is lovely and much like a Victorian tea setting. I would recommend just going to the Empress to look at the tea room, but go somewhere else for high [sic] tea. The price is very costly and not worth the time to pay. 
Reviewer: Lovateas  Add your review   

Visited: November, 1998
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: Having tea at the Empress was a lifelong dream of mine. It was everything I expected and more! The ambiance, the food, the tea. This is a "must do" if you ever find yourself in Victoria. It transports you back in time to when everyone took afternoon tea! I loved it so much I can't wait to go again (my husband promised we would go for my 50th birthday)! I dream of the strawberries with cream, the sandwiches and scones! And they present you with a sample package of tea as you leave! Just charming!
Reviewer: Hollis Phillips  Add your review    

Visited: August, 1999
Tea: Good.  Food: Good.  Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: Empress Hotel is beautiful. Never seen so much crowd in afternoon tea. Because of high demand the result was: tea sandwiches were cut poorly. But over all rating was good. Having tea is suppose to be a relaxation. Here waiters have to rushed to keep with the customer. My most memorable one is the place itself. And of course the tea.
Reviewer: azmonkey61@aol.com  Add your review  .  

Visited: May, 1999
Tea: Excellent.  Food: Excellent.  Service: Excellent.  Appearance: Excellent.
Comments: When people heard I was visiting Victoria, knowing that I am a tea-lover (especially British tea) they uniformly said, "You must go to the Empress for tea." So I did, and gladly. Pricey, but definitely one of the best -- if not the best -- tea I have ever had. A very nice room, with very civilized clientele (even the children were well-behaved and cutely attired), a piano playing in the background. I sat at a wonderful Victorian settee, with a walnut antique table with a pull-out drawer! The tea was wonderful, as was the food, which began with strawberries with real cream and progressed to the usual. The waiter was excellent, and I guess he liked me too, for he gave me a sample of Empress tea. Highly recommended.
Reviewer: kiki361@yahoo.com  Add your review  .

James Bay Tea Room & Restaurant, Victoria, BC

Visited: July, 2008.  Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Average.  Food: Poor. Service: Average.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: The exterior and interior of this little tea room are quite quaint so we expected to enjoy a lovely tea. The first indication that something was amiss was when we were presented with a restaurant quality tea bag in a paper wrapper. The "tea" was served all at once on one small plate (for two people!). The sandwiches had the crusts left on and the bread was dry on the outside. The fillings were unremarkable and the portions were NOT generous. The scones were miniscule and they were served, believe it or not, with a bowl of canned whipped topping and one small plastic pack of restaurant jam each. No crumpets or savories were served. The little tart wasn't too bad. I can't remember the exact price, but I do remember feeling that we had been taken advantage. I would have complained, but as the guest of my friend it was inappropriate. This restaurant certainly does not qualify as a tea room.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: My Granny's girl 8/08 Add your review 

Visited: August, 2006.  Reviewed: May, 2007.
Meal: Cream tea. Type of tea: Pyramid teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Good. Service: Good.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: This is a casual place with fun decor - not a 'fancy' tearoom. Variety on the menu. I had one huge delicious scone, and tea which was made from a silk tea bag & very delicious. Small pot with a tea cozy to keep it warm.
Would you go back? Hope so, but we don't live nearby.
Reviewer: cacjeanb Add your review 

Visited: November, 2002
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Teabags. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Fair.  Food: Good. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Good.
Comments: This is a nice quaint house. I was just disappointed with the presentation of the afternoon tea. I received my food and tea all at the SAME time. The tea was a teapot with a teabag. I just felt like I was in a restaurant with my afternoon tea menu given to me very quickly to let them move on to their other customers. The sandwiches were good, the scone was okay. A huge cup of whipping cream was on the plate to take up space, it seemed. The dessert seemed to be the processed type.
High tea was served the same way. Just had a higher price and one more menu item. I'm sorry, this was just not what I call a high-class tea house. The money would have been worth it at the Empress.
Reviewer: blesher Add your review      

Point Ellice House, Victoria, BC

Visited: May, 2005.  Reviewed: May, 2005.
Meal: Afternoon tea. Type of tea: Loose leaf. Served: In a teapot.
Tea: Poor.  Food: Poor. Service: Fair.  Appearance: Poor.
Comments: I had high expectations prior to going to this tea room, from all that I read. This tea and tour is very poor. The home is in need of renovations and upkeep. The tea left very much to be desired. The sandwiches were one, egg salad, cheese and cucumber all one sandwich..very distateful. We will not return.
Would you go back? Sorry, no.
Reviewer: Anne-Marie DeLorenzo Add your review    

The White Heather Tea Room, Victoria, BC

Visited: October, 2007.  Meal: Lunch. Type o