The Ruby Rose Tea Room

On my way from Virgina to North Carolina last Thursday, I saw the sign for Stoneville, N.C. and made a split second decision and exited 220. My GPS easily found the lovely old Victorian house at 209 E. Main Street in Stoneville and as I walked through the front door, I seemed to step into the past.

Owners Tammy and Ken Church named their restaurant after Ruby Robertson, wife of C.P. Robertson. They were previous owners of the house. C.P. made his money in mica mines and was an author. A portrait of "Miss Ruby" hangs in the entry by the rose-covered staircase.

Roses are everywhere you look at the Ruby Rose: painted on walls, the backs of chairs and decorating the tables, mantels and shelves. China cups and saucers, figurines and antiques invite you to sit a while and enjoy a cup of tea. Crystal chandeliers and lace curtains provide a sweet, calm atmosphere. There are three large dining rooms (pink, yellow and green.) See pictures.

I spoke with Tammy who said that a 24 hour notice is needed for both afternoon tea and Royal tea (2:00 to 4:00 pm.) Finger sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, tea (of course) and "dainty desserts" are served. I asked about "dainty desserts. Tammy said they could be a mixture of tarts, cookies, chocolate covered strawberries or miniature cheesecakes.

Regular daily lunch fare is a nice selection of homemade soups, sandwiches (I had egg salad on a croissant) salads and lovely desserts such as pumpkin swirl cake, cheesecake and coconut pie- all homemade. I chose the pie and it was yummy.

Having blown my diet for the day with the pie (but it was worth it) I left, stepping onto the big wrap around porch wishing I had time to curl up with the teddy bear on the porch swing. I knew that I had just had a sweet taste of a time long ago when ladies wore gloves, high button shoes and big fancy hats and spent long leisurely afternoons at high tea.