Not Just a Cup of Tea
By Amber Ward

Maria Hatch and Donna Cruz enjoy Children's Tea at Julian Tea & Cottage Arts. Photo by Amber Ward

Julian Tea & Cottage Arts is not your average teahouse.

Located in a turn-of-the-century home, Julian Tea & Cottage Arts offers a chance at an elegant tea in a charming setting, while also offering an extensive collection of tea and tea accessories.

The teashop is located in the historic home of Clarence King, son of famed gold miner George Valentine King. This is one of many stops on Julian's historic walking tour. Built in 1898, the home also sits on the site of Julian's third Town Hall, which was erected in 1876, also known as the Centennial Hall. The King House was a family residence until 1927, when it was sold to a daughter for $10.

One of the most exciting features of Julian Tea & Cottage Arts is that tea is served daily. An "Afternoon Tea" consists of finger sandwiches, scone with whipped cream, homemade jam and dessert. There are also other luncheon choices available, including homemade soup, sandwiches and fresh greens with a special house dressing.

Children's Tea is another one of the teahouse's specialties. Consisting of your choice of peanut butter and jelly or turkey sandwich, scone with jam and whipped cream, cookies and your choice of children's tea, apple juice or hot chocolate, the Children's Tea is sure to delight your little ones.

Seating is limited at the teahouse, so reservations are a must. There are three tea times on weekends; seatings are at noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Seating times are much more flexible during the week. The Tea Room is also available for hosting special events. Diana Garrett, special event coordinator, is available for all your party planning needs. The teashop is the perfect place for birthday parties, baby showers, anniversaries or for any other get-together occasion.

Julian Tea & Cottage Arts carries a variety of quality teas, including oolong, black, green and herbal teas. There are regular, decaf and bulk teas for your choosing. Yorkshire Gold, the house tea, is especially popular, along with other brands like Republic of Tea, Ashby, Stash and Yogi's Ancient Healing Teas.

The store also stocks a wonderful selection of fine English China, miniature tea sets, children's tea sets and an assortment of tea accessories. Julian Tea also features books on tea, stationery, cards and gift baskets made to order.

Julian Tea's "Culinary Cottage" is located in the upstairs of the teahouse. Here, you will find all sorts of items for the kitchen, including housewares, gifts, books, teas and gourmet foods.

"Be sure to stop by and sample infused vinegars and oils, unique jams, mustards, crackers, cookies and candies. And there is always a featured tea of the month to taste," says owner Edie Seger.

In December, Julian Tea & Cottage Arts will be celebrating its 13th Annual Victorian Christmas

Teas. Sat., Dec. 8 through Sun., Dec. 23, a menu including finger sandwiches, savories, tea breads, scone with curd, jam, and whipped cream, a selection of seasonal desserts and a variety of Christmas Teas will be served.

Seatings are at 11:30 a.m., 1:15 p.m. and 3 p.m. and reservations are required. The cost is $20.95 per person. Victorian Christmas Tea is a wonderful way to entertain guests for the holidays or to simply get away from all the hustle and bustle and delight in an elegant afternoon tea.

Julian Tea & Cottage Arts is located at 2124 Third St. in Julian. For more information or to make a reservation, call 866-765-0832.