While the atmosphere of the tea house is quite quaint, our experience at this establishment was beyond disappointing. We were a party of ten with reservations for a bridal shower and when the arrangements were made with the owner, she was well aware of the nature of the party.
Upon arrival, we were coolly greeted by the owner and told that our party would be split between two adjacent tables, which was not ideal, but we were very agreeable despite the lackluster welcome. As our guests arrived, we were served promptly with our choices of tea, finger sandwiches, scones, and miniature desserts. After our meals, we continued with what is customary for a bridal shower - the opening of gifts, during which we maintained a reasonable level of volume. After all, this was a bridal shower - again, something that was discussed when the reservations were made.
Once the gifts were opened, the owner of the tea house proceeded to berate my guests for being 'too loud' and moving their chairs slightly to view the opening of the gifts. Not only was this uncalled for, but it was absolutely embarrassing to me as the hostess of the party. I spent over $500 for a two hour party with ten guests, which is a lot of money for tea and finger foods, and to be treated in such a manner is 100% unacceptable.
I chose this establishment for the ambiance and to treat the guests of the bridal shower to an enjoyable afternoon, but left disgusted. I will never step foot in Bon Appetit again, nor would I recommend the tea house to anyone.
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