Ye Olde English Shoppe

Above the door at Ye Olde English Shoppe is a plaque reading, «Being Kind Matters.» The women running this shop live by that motto, and were very welcoming from the moment we entered inviting us to explore the shop and tea rooms. In addition to answering our many questions about the British foods, they provided advice on local quaint stops, including homemade rootbeer at an Amish home. The prices were very reasonable and the shop, and we hope to have time to try the afternoon tea on our next visit.

Delightful little taste of England in Lancaster Co., PA ! Quality of the food was excellent. The name of the restaurant should give a clue that this is not going to be a large restaurant. And because of that, you feel as though you are in an English family’s home, with English bone china table service. While the menu is quite limited (they serve only true English traditional items), what items they do offer are of excellent quality. I had the bangers and mash yesterday, which was scrumptuous. The desserts are wonderful — all home made and oh so tasty. We went there yesterday (April 23) to celebrate St. George’s Day (patron saint of England) with two of our English neighbors. They were delighted with the place, and we heard quite a few patrons with British accents while we were there. We definitely will be going back. Another reviewer mentioned how she felt that her waitress was a bit too intrusive with checking on how they were doing. I also find that annoying in restaurants. However, I did not experience that at all yesterday. The owner and some of the staff are British, but don’t assume that they’re «stuffy Brits». Not at all. Very nice, warm friendly people. We’re so glad we discovered this little piece of England nestled in Lancaster Co., Penna.

Located in an old house, this tearoom is a must try and something different from the barrage buffets in the area. My friend and I came here on a Saturday afternoon and the place was busy so make sure to make a reservation. I ordered the high tea and wasn’t ready for the mountain of sandwiches. For $ 20, you get 4 sandwiches, choice of a scone, a small selection of creamed pastries, and your choice of tea. I picked the chocolate strawberry tea. Usually I need to refill my teapot at other tea places but not in this instance. They give you a BIG one so it seems like an endless amount of water.
Plus: wait staff is helpful and they don’t rush you out.
Minus: because it is in an old house, there is a slight musty smell but you quickly forget about it.
Would I come back? Yes.

After the rave reviews I’d heard from other people, I was somewhat disappointed. I gave it three stars because the shop itself is very nicely decorated and the tea selection is amazing. We had the quiche and it was very good and came in a very large portion with a salad. They have a lot of different dressings. I tried the English dressing, which they make. I thought it tasted exactly like Miracle Whip, which I hate, so I can’t recommend that one. The menu is very limited. There is a specials page with 3 or 4 items on it, and the regular menu which had a high tea and 3 other choices. While service was friendly, it was overbearing. During our 45 minutes there, we were asked at least 6 times by the entire staff if «everything is alright.» I appreciate an attentive server, but this got to be annoying. I would go back again for tea and dessert, they sounded delicious but we were too full to try them.