Teas at the British Shoppe!
       Cakes, scones, and pots of tea.
       Gone to be no more.
       Bought by one without intention,
       in silly pretension devoured.

A tanka in honor of the Front Parlor Tea Room that was in the British Shoppe for many years. In addition to true afternoon teas in the Parlor the Shoppe carried teas, tea accessories, and hard to find English food items from bangers through Gentlemen’s Relish to vegemite. As with many unique businesses stamped with the personality of the original owners, well deserved retirement and a move to Florida marked the beginning of the end. Willoughby’s Coffee & Tea is a great source for tea, even a fresh cuppa… But it’s not the front parlor with friends.