The Tea Room Experience
420 East Church Street #109 • Orlando, Florida 32801
thetearoomexperience.com • 407-219-4380
When Flor Velez moved to Orlando from Puerto Rico with her only daughter, Keishla Estela, 16 years ago, she never let go of her dream that the two of them might one day open a business together. It took some time and thought, but a decade later, the pair found the perfect niche enterprise that would combine their individual passions with their familial bond. As Flor was already a seasoned tea drinker and Keishla a passionate home baker, it seemed only fitting for them to open a mommy-and-me–style tearoom. Since 2016, their combined efforts have established The Tea Room Experience as a memorable tea venue that can be enjoyed by a more diverse clientele than just mothers and their children.
When setting up the space, Keishla and Flor sought to create an atmosphere that would allow guests to enjoy a refined teatime in a modern space without needing to venture to a luxury hotel or upscale restaurant. The tea theme is carefully incorporated into the tearoom’s décor, from the shelves full of various tea sets along the wall to the teapots, cups, and saucers that top the arms of the chandelier. A stark white wall with large marquee letters that spell out “TEA” is known to be a fitting photo backdrop for many to commemorate their visit to The Tea Room Experience.
“We have found it works well for not only women, but also gentlemen,” Flor notes. “They don’t feel intimated to come to our tearoom. We wanted it to be very clean and inviting to all.”
Once the pair had decided to open a tearoom, Keishla took the initiative to earn her certification as a tea sommelier. Not only does she use her knowledge to offer expert tea pairings to accompany the food served, but she also incorporates her expertise in discerning which tea she will incorporate into any of the pastries throughout the year.
“I like to help introduce customers to tea and help them find a flavor they like, and I get to pair the menu with the many teas we offer,” Keishla states. “I also decided that I’ve got to bake with the tea. I make things like our teacup cakes and cookies, using [tea] blends in the recipes.”
Keishla follows the traditional scones, savories, and sweets formula for afternoon tea, which costs $30 per person and $18 per child for ages 10 and younger, and she enjoys altering the menu and recipes with flavors in accordance with the season. Diners have a selection of 20 different teas they can savor with their meal, and those looking to sip on a unique brew will want to order the house blend, Flora—a whimsical union of Flor and Keishla’s names. This green tea was crafted by the pair and includes hints of apricot and apple.
As Keishla remains busy managing the food and tea for the Tea Room Experience, Flor oversees the front-of-house duties. But together, the duo continues to share their passion for serving unforgettable afternoon-tea encounters for both newcomers and frequent patrons.
“We love that families of all ages, from grandmothers to grandchildren, are coming to see us, and they all feel welcome and invited,” Keishla remarks.
The Tea Room Experience is open Thursday through Sunday from 10:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m, with seating times at 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:30 p.m., by reservation.
