Steeped in the charm of Lancashire, where tearooms are as common as coffee shops in the States, Sarah Olano’s childhood was rich in tradition. With Grandma baking in her shop and Nana in her home, Olano was always surrounded by the comforting aromas of freshly baked treats.
“When we would go to Nana’s in North Wales, she’d set the table with a lace tablecloth. We’d have cake stands with salmon sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches, scones, Victoria sponge… Everything you’d find at an afternoon tea, with full teapots and beautiful china,” says Olano. “But we didn’t even call it afternoon tea—it was just what we did.”
After moving to Austin in 2011, Olano discovered an opportunity to bring those cherished flavors and experiences to her new community. Her goal: to transport folks into a tea world that isn’t like their everyday.
Thus, Austin English Tea Company was born. Located in Michelle’s Patisserie on Ranch Road, it features recipes crafted by Olano herself. While she favors millionaire bars and Earl Grey, the seasonal desserts and variety of teas offer something for everyone, whether enjoyed in the tearoom or your chosen venue.
It isn’t just birthday celebrations and wedding parties booking with Austin English Tea Company. From events with the Wizard Academy business school to the Neill-Cochran House Museum to the video game animators at Mighty Coconut, Olano has seen it all.
“Afternoon tea brings so much joy. People sipping from china tea cups, feeling fancy, getting dressed up in hats and gloves… They come through the door full of expectation, ready to spend quality time with the people that they’re with,” says Olano. “There are so many ingredients to happiness.”
Planning a corporate event, retirement home outing, or special occasion? Visit austinenglishtea.com to get on the calendar!