Lots of new things to share in today’s afternoon tea posting!

I have been looking for a long time for a tea cart, or tea trolley.  I was specifically looking for a Roxton maple cart but none was showing up.  However, I was able to find one in a darker wood that is in need of a little TLC at some point but is still usable in the meantime.  So, our afternoon tea today was served via the new-to-me tea cart.

The second new acquistion is the little circular tablecloth.  I bought it at the local Anne of Green Gables store on the corner of Queen and Richmond Street in downtown Charlottetown, PEI.  They have a great selection of these types of small tablecloths, squares, and runners, and at reasonable prices.  I particularly like the sunflower design for late summer and autumn use.  It also looks great on the centre of my light maple dining room table.

The third new treasure (I told you there were lots!) is the new-to-me Ellgreave teapot.  While I tend to lean toward pretty pinks, yellows, and mauves in teapot colors, the shape and the gold trim of this one particularly took my eye.  The colors are also suitable for autumn teas.

I chose a couple of teacups and saucers from my small autumn collection.  Both blend well with the teapot colors.

I like the rich tones in the rose in the above teacup (Cololough, Eng.) along with its gold trim to match that on the teapot.  I like the fall motif on the cup (Royal Vale, Eng.) below.

The fourth new discovery comes from Tony’s Bistro and Pâtisserie in Moncton, New Brunswick.  I was recently overseas “to the mainland”, as many of us Islanders say, and on the recommendation of a colleague, went to Tony’s Bistro for lunch.  It was difficult to pass by the two display cases filled with delectable sweet treats.  While I normally prepare all the food for my afternoon teas, I thought it would be fun to have someone else’s sweets for a change.  And, I was not disappointed!  Eager to have a look at my choices? (Note: All food items on today’s tea table, with the exception of the chocolate truffles, came from Tony’s.)

First the Raspberry Macarons.  These are so light and airy with just the right touch of chewiness.  Divine perfection.

These crisp little raspberry-filled shortbreads had just the right amount of crunch.

And, last but not least, this delectable cake that no chocolate lover could resist!

So, if you are lucky enough to have a great French pâtisserie in your area, tea time can be very easy as you don’t have to bake!  All you have to do is make a stop at your favorite pâtisserie and then add the location, dishes, fine company, and a good pot of tea.  It’s also a good opportunity to try specialty items that you might not normally bake yourself.

Today’s tea selection is a classic, full-bodied black tea from King Cole, another New Brunswick company.  My afternoon tea has a distinct New Brunswick influence today!

Now that the tea elements have been duly admired and photographed, it’s time to sit down for tea!

I hope you have enjoyed taking a peek at my afternoon tea.  If you find yourself in Moncton, I recommend checking out Tony’s Bistro and Pâtisserie  at 137 McLaughlin Drive.

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