At a Clearwater tea room and Dunedin tea bar, one family is serving up something special

Joseph’s Tea Room and Shop offers traditional tea service at their location off U.S. 19, and more at their Dunedin tea bar.

At a Clearwater tea room and Dunedin tea bar, one family is serving up something special, inviting guests to experience a delightful journey into the world of tea. Located in an unassuming strip mall off U.S. 19, Joseph’s Tea Room and Shop offers more than just a place to enjoy tea; it provides an ambiance that immerses visitors in the traditional tea experience.

Upon entering, guests are welcomed into a cozy lobby adorned with various tchotchkes, which leads to a spacious teal dining area filled with cheerful decor—teapots, faux foliage, and warm photographs create a serene environment for enjoying a classic afternoon tea experience. Shannon and Guerby Joseph, the founders, opened the tea room in September 2021 as an evolution of their online business that began in 2020.

The tea room initially comprised a small lobby capable of seating just 20 guests. Due to overwhelming demand, they expanded next door and now offer a larger dining area that accommodates nearly 90 people. Guerby, who is 39 years old, personally designed the new space and completed the renovations, ensuring every aspect enhanced the overall tea service experience.

Shannon Joseph, 38, is dedicated to curating a memorable visit for every guest. She takes on the crucial role of ensuring customer satisfaction by greeting visitors and presenting beautifully arranged trays featuring an assortment of tea sandwiches and pastries. She manages a small team while balancing her responsibilities as a mother to her 9-month-old son, Denzel, who often accompanies her at the shop.

Meanwhile, Guerby is at the Joseph’s Tea Bar on Dunedin’s Main Street. This spot, which opened recently, provides a more intimate setting with seating for just 12 guests and offers unique beverages like tea lattes and mocktails that incorporate tea as a base.

At the Clearwater location, culinary operations are overseen by Cindy Martin, Shannon’s mother. They serve a diverse menu that includes multiple types of tea service and a variety of a la carte options. Shannon places great emphasis on not letting any guest leave feeling unsatisfied, with each tea service including a pot of tea per individual, offering over 80 different varieties ranging from White Strawberry Basil to Rooibos Cinnamon Apple, categorized by caffeine content.

Every tea service begins with a berry and nut salad, followed by a stunning three-tiered tray, showcasing an enticing selection of sandwiches and desserts. Guests have the option to choose between a full sandwich and a half sandwich, allowing them to partake in multiple flavors that highlight the homemade quality which has helped the Josephs cultivate a loyal customer following.

Shannon and Guerby's transition from New York City to Florida in June 2020 marked the beginning of their tea journey—a venture born out of personal health challenges and a collective passion for providing healthier lifestyle choices. Their online retail success at local markets led to the establishment of this brick-and-mortar location, further solidifying their presence in the tea industry.

The tea room has become a popular destination, especially on weekends when special occasions such as birthdays and baby showers are celebrated. Shannon shared a recent interaction with a mother and daughter visiting from Davis Islands for afternoon tea, highlighting the importance of freshly made dishes and how the dessert menu evolves weekly.

Shannon’s commitment to promoting the health benefits associated with tea fosters a tranquil environment, encouraging patrons to unwind and disconnect from their everyday stresses. Through dedication and care, the Joseph family indeed continues to serve up something special in their tea endeavors, making each visit to their Clearwater tea room and Dunedin tea bar a cherished experience.

If you go to Joseph’s Tea Room and Shop

The tea shop at 25028 U.S. 19 in Clearwater is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 352-679-1339. The tea bar at 1153 Main St. in Dunedin is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 727-788-1085. josephstea.com.