Southern Hospitali-Tea

Remember the last time you found that favorite little place while on vacation that you long to return to?

Chantilly’s Tea House and Restaurant has been that place for us since we first stepped onto its porch this past April.

Chantilly's is owned by Sandra Loyd, who grew up around Bessemer City, NC. She later moved to Seattle, where she met and married her husband Greg, an engineer.

Sandra, wanting to move back home to North Carolina, convinced herself that she could "southernize" her husband. And well she has.

Sandra and Greg have lived in Gastonia more than 17 years now. After spending time with them, I do believe I have met the true meaning of Southern Hospitality in them both.

While hostessing at Chantilly’s Tea House & Restaurant in Gastonia, Sandra was presented with an opportunity to buy the business. She became its new owner in September 2003. After three months of repainting, refurbishing and redecorating, the new Chantilly's opened for business in January 2004.

When asked why she purchased Chantilly's, Sandra said, “I just never thought I couldn’t do it. I’ve always loved cooking and entertaining at home for friends and family. I thought it was all the same. It wasn’t until later that I realized, it really isn’t. Each day is like the opening of a show.”

Sandra pays particular attention to her guests, embracing regular patrons and new ones alike with open arms, doing whatever it takes to accommodate them.

The minute you step through Chantilly's doors you feel a spirit of warmth at every glance. Each of the four rooms will captivate your romantic sensibilities while satisfying your taste for home cooking with flair.

Chantilly’s speaks Hospitali-tea. Hardwood floors and high ceilings are accentuated by colorful combinations of Southern style, French country and Victorian heirlooms in each of the four rooms. Colored linen and glass-covered tables with flower, plant or birdcage centerpieces complement the color of each room. Sterling napkin rings and china grace each place setting. Glass shelves display unique china teapots and tea cozies. Plants, lighted trees, antiques and lace, mirrors, and earthenware vessels enhance each room’s individual character and charm. Framed artwork hangs above cozy, decorative fireplaces, exuding a quiet warmth and charm in summer or winter.

Chantilly’s food caters to those with discriminating tastes. There’s a hint of spice in the air and the wonderful aroma of freshly baked quiche, bread, and simmering soups, and desserts that pervades each room. Choose an ice-cold glass of sweet tea or one of the many flavored hot teas by the cup or by the pot. Then, enjoy a demi-sized plate with fresh poppy seed muffins and a dollop of whipped strawberry butter sweet as a rose.

Daily specials include at least two different warm, fluffy quiches and heartwarming soups. The house favorite is Chantilly’s Sampler, while Sandra’s favorite is the Seafood Quiche made with shrimp, crabmeat, white cheese and other secret ingredients. Perhaps you'll choose broccoli and cheese, grass green asparagus and ham, or the spinach and Swiss. Or, you may try a specialty sandwich or one of Chantilly's exceptional salads straight out of someone’s imagination. Gentlemen, try something different, I guarantee you will leave fully satisfied (pun intended) as the portions are very generous and the prices reasonable. And, if you can manage to make room for dessert you won’t be disappointed with the choices. There are no wrong selections at Chantilly's. It’s definitely not your ordinary lunch on the run.

After dining, browse through Chantilly's unique collections of jewelry, handmade items, handkerchiefs, ties, cards, books and other gifts to cherish the memory of your visit.

Whether you want to book an office party, business luncheon, baby or bridal shower, to celebrate any occasion, or to go out for no particular reason at all, Sandra and Chantilly's will make you feel right at home.

Why not add your names to the guest book along with those who return to Chantilly’s Tea House and Restaurant again and again? Chantilly's is every bit worth your drive, time and dollar.

Chantilly Tea House & Restaurant is located at 1003 Union Road in Gastonia, North Carolina (Chantilly’s is handicapped accessible), Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11:00 am - 2:00 PM.

Chantilly’s offers dine in, take out, catering and delivery to Kings Mountain, Stanley and Cleveland Counties.

For information and reservations for larger parties, please call (704) 854-3232.

by Chris Starrett and Sandra Ellingwood