Things that are considered “slow” and “old fashioned” may seem an anomaly in this modern, digital, connected world. But The Secret Garden Tea Company, which opened in Kerrisdale in 1995, focuses on atmosphere, community and connections rather than free wireless and high turnover.
“We provide a delicious product in a beautiful environment and we want people to come here and slow down and make time for each other, whether that's mothers and daughters or a group of friends,” says owner Kathy Wyder. Her sister-in-law and co-owner, Erin Wyder, chimes in, “It's such a world of to-go and takeout and we're losing this kind of experience; for us it's really important to have a place for people to come and connect.”
Kerrisdale’s worst kept secret, this delightful salon prides itself on quality, and it shows. Since 1995, sisters-in-law Kathy and Erin Wyder have provided tea, coffee and cake to West Side residents and visitors jonesing for their treats from afar. Their high tea service books up quickly, likely due to the traditional yet original take on the ritual. Winter offerings include egg pinwheels, seared prawns on brioche, peppermint crackle cookies and an eggnog meringue torte. You even receive a take-home treat to relive your experience later… if you aren’t too full, that is.
Served until 11am each day, breakfast at Secret Tea Garden is truly one of Kerrisdale’s best-kept secrets. Most don’t know the famous teahouse offers a substantial breakfast menu, which includes cutesy dishes like the heart-shaped breakfast sandwich, and more unique items such as the French toast croissant (caramelized apples, maple, cream cheese, and cinnamon tucked into a grilled croissant) and banana bread oatmeal. For those desiring brunch fit for a queen, High Tea occurs three times per day, and includes tea, sandwiches and tiny sweet treats.
Get away from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver and sit down to enjoy a soothing cup of tea in Kerrisdale. The Secret Garden prides itself on creating an atmosphere that promotes relaxing over rushing, allowing patrons to enjoy the sweeter things in life. Guests are even invited to select their own teacup and saucer from their vast collection of antique bone china. High tea is offered daily in regular, vegetarian and gluten-free variations with finger sandwiches, scones and decadent sweets. For the month of December, a special holiday menu includes gingerbread cheesecake and eggnog meringue tortes.