Posh Tea Room Opens in Monroe With Traditional Afternoon Tea

Hidden in plain sight in Monroe in a non-descript complex featuring small suburban business is a little gem called Posh Tea Room. While the building’s façade might be non-descript, once inside you enter a world of calm, with lavender walls, white table cloths topped with silver and China, delicate steaming pots of tea, where a pianist sits at a baby grand sending notes of jazz and classical music swirling into the air, setting the tone for what promises to be a relaxing afternoon. In an instant the worries and stresses from the world outside begin to melt away.

Posh Tea is the result of Laurie Giles Shipp’s life-long dream. Lori who grew up locally in Trumbull, in a neighborhood filled with families of British engineers, was completely taken when the family next door invited her and her mother to tea one afternoon. At the tender age of six, this would leave a lifelong impression. She was completely taken with the formality, elegance and the ritual of this afternoon affair. 

Decades later, Lori still enjoys and makes time for her 4:00 tea. The self-proclaimed etiquette buff is an attorney by trade. Newly retired, she stepped away from the world of law this past January. She traded her books and legal pads for fine China, exquisite teas, delectable finger sandwiches and delicate pastries.

At Posh, there are various tea services to explore and enjoy. The more traditional signature Afternoon Tea features delicious, delicate finger sandwiches, traditional scones and assorted sweet bites served with a selection of elegant teas. Other experiences include a Solo Tea, the Elegant Exhale, offered on Thursdays and Fridays, offers one the ability to pause and reflect, perfect for those seeking a moment of solitude, an escape from the chaos outside. This is a great opportunity to journal or lose yourself in a book without the distraction of computers and phones, and the constant hum of the outside world. Posh offers a perfect setting for private tea parties, from paint and sips to book clubs, to bridal showers and Birthday parties. The private event space can comfortably accommodates 12 – 32 guests. 

And what child doesn’t love a tea party? Laurie has created the ultimate magical space with a whimsical mural featuring an enchanted butterfly garden with its own precious tea service that every child, young and old, will fall in love with instantly. It is pure delight!

A couple of weeks ago we had the opportunity to experience the timeless afternoon tea inspired by such esteemed places as Fortnum & Mason and the Ritz, with a selection of fine teas and blends from around the world. We so enjoyed the light, savory finger sandwiches. Tender smoked turkey mixed with house-made fig and cranberry offered a lovely hint of sweetness.

The Avocado Green Goddess gave the traditional cucumber sandwich some West Coast vibes with avocado, cucumber and sprouts paired with a delicate Green Goddess spread. Honey Ham and Smoked Cheddar features thinly sliced honey ham paired with smoked cheddar and mango chutney, another sweet twist on a savory classic. The Dill Egg Salad offered a hint smokiness with Dijon and smoked paprika. The Coronation Chicken, a longtime favorite of mine, features a classic blend of tender chicken, curry spice, mango chutney which shakes things up a little bit, and golden raisins. 

A selection of  freshly baked scones followed. Traditional British scones – Scones the way they ought to be, which put most other scones to shame – were insanely light and airy and were accompanied by strawberry jam, lemon curd and clotted cream. Our experience ended on a perfectly sweet note with delicate pastries, mini macarons, lemon sandwich cookies and mini tartlets.

Everything is freshly made in house and for those who have dietary restrictions, there are vegan, dairy and gluten-free options available. 

I do hope that when looking for something a little bit different and a little bit special, you’ll give Posh Tea Room some consideration. It’s the perfect afternoon outing for families, for girlfriends… for everyone.

Posh Tea is located at 755 Main Street in Monroe and is open from 12 – 3:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays and from 12 – 4:30 on Saturdays and Sundays.