Nestled in Linden’s historic district is Sweet D’s Bakeshop, Tea Room & Café. This hidden gem inhabits a quaint 1890 Victorian home that takes one back to another era. Owner Dee Burch grew up in the tradition of Afternoon Tea and she wants to keep that little bit of etiquette alive. “We spend so much time doing other things, we forget to take time for ourselves,” she says. Originating in England, Afternoon Tea is a mid-day repast including tea, scones, sandwiches and cake, and is now a popular American institution. Dee carries on the tradition by serving Ashby’s of London tea, which she says is very flavorful. Her customers rave about the scrumptious food, which is all prepared from scratch.
The simple menu changes monthly and includes sandwiches, soups, quiche, Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Pie and Spaghetti Pie. “Kids really love the Spaghetti Pie!” Dee exclaimed. One of the more unique and popular quiches is made with apricots, tarragon and Swiss cheese. The chicken salad is made with all-white meat, pineapple, fresh apples, lettuce and celery with a touch of cranberry. Soups are made fresh daily and include White Chicken Chili and Charming Chowder, which is a delectable blend of tomatoes, fresh basil, corn, potatoes and cream. Dee grows her own herbs that she uses to spice up the menu. Naturally, the Bake Shop offers a variety of pies, cupcakes, cookies and cheesecake. Cakes are topped with rich cream cheese and buttercream frostings and Dee says customer favorites are Royal Chocolate, Humming Bird and Carrot Cake.
Sweet D’s serves lunch from 11am-4pm daily and offers three English Afternoon Teas: 5-Course, 3-Course and Cream Tea. Private events can be arranged. When you visit the charming city of Linden, put on your finest hat, take a drive by the Mill Pond and indulge yourself with an elegant English Afternoon Tea at Sweet D’s!
PHOTOS BY MIKE NADDEO
