Big changes on the horizon for a favourite Hamilton tea room
Published January 30, 2020 at 2:12 pm
The Duchess Tea Room in Stoney Creek closed recently as the eatery changes ownership.
The Duchess Tea Room in Stoney Creek closed recently as the eatery changes ownership.
Unfortunately, health issues have forced the mother-daughter duo, consisting of Julie Boyce and Ashley Paulino, to sell their “dream” business.
Back in December, the Duchess informed patrons that they had sold the business in a Facebook post.
“It is a very bittersweet time here at The Duchess Tea Room, due to health reasons we have sold our pride and joy to two remarkable new owners,” the post said.
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“We have loved every single moment of creating what we have at The Duchess Tea Room and we thank you all for your amazing love and support. We ask that you show the same to the new owners.”
The Duchess is known for their authentic British high tea experiences which prominently featured their homemade baked goods and sandwiches.
The lovely space resembles your grandmother’s parlour with fancy linens, mismatched China and ornate furniture.
For those concerned that they won’t be able to indulge their High Tea fix, the new owners will reportedly be keeping the name and many of Boyce and Paulino’s recipes.
In the barely two years that the Duchess has been welcoming cuppa lovers across the region, they have earned a very loving and loyal following, judging from the outpouring of emotion and support for Boyce and Paulino on social media.
“Wishing you and your Mum all the best. Hoping for better health for Julie in 2020. And thank you for providing a bright spot for all of us. You will be missed,” wrote one Facebook user.
“You made our experiences special!” another wrote.
“Best scones ever! My girlfriends and I loved the tea room. We will likely go again after new owners take over to try it out, but miss you and your Mom. Sure hope these health problems with Mom get resolved and things settle for you two.”
While there was much sadness to see the new owners go, many Duchess fans were optimistic about the future and voiced their intention to keep patronizing the lovely little tea room.
There is no word yet on when The Duchess Tea Room will be reopening but ownership officially changes hands Feb. 1, according to the Facebook post announcing the change.
Paulino and Boyce will surely be missed and I’m not alone in offering best wishes for improved health.
To the new owners of the Duchess Tea Room: you have some big shoes to fill but tea lovers of this community will undoubtedly welcome you with open arms. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for us!
Photo courtesy The Duchess Tea Room Facebook page
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