Passport Stop #3: Our SpecialTea

Tucked away in Blair, Nebraska is the most adorable little tea room. I had never heard of this establishment before, but after enjoying tea and scones with our wonderful hostess, we already have our return visit booked.

When they coined the phrase "the hostess with the mostest," they must have had Jean, the owner of SpecialTea, in mind. She was genuinely thrilled to see us. She greeted us immediately, provided hand sanitizer, and began explaining the changes in the tea room due to COVID-19. Not only were we struck by the beauty of the tea room, but we also appreciated Jean's attention to safety standards. She apologized profusely for the use of plastic silverware, as it is not the proper way to dress a table for tea, but again, this spoke to her attempts to provide her customers with a safe and enjoyable visit.

Jean had an incredible variety of teas to choose from. I selected Snickerdoodle and was not disappointed. She served my tea in a beautiful antique teapot and then brought me the best raspberry scone I have ever tasted. I know my way around a kitchen pretty well and can whip up some pretty tasty treats, so it is a true compliment for me to say this was better than any scones I have ever made. Ever. Absolutely delicious.

In the back of the tea room is a cute little gift shop where Jean has stocked tea, coffee, jewelry, tea pots and more. I bought some blueberry cobbler coffee that has since become pretty popular around my house.

The decor, the tea, and the food were enough to ensure I would return, but the icing on the cake was definitely Jean herself. She took the time to tell me the history of her tea room, including where she acquired much of her beautiful china and tableware. I don't want to spoil it for her, so I won't share any of her stories here. However, when you visit, please ask her to tell you about the Seven Sisters. And then watch her face light up. Her deep love for her family and their traditions is evident in every story she tells. My husband and I greatly enjoyed listening to her share her memories with us.

I can't recommend this place highly enough. I hope you enjoy yourself as much as we did!