Forever Young Magazine

December 2006
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Section: Food

The White Linen Tea House
By Nancy Jo Eckerson

“There are few hours in life more agreeable than
the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.”– Henry James

When life hands you lemons, have a tea party! This is the story of Linda Kloch, owner of The White Linen Tea House of North Tonawanda, who in her early 50s, found herself needing a new source of financial security. The very resourceful Kloch took her brand-new, gorgeous, two-story, country home and moved her living quarters to the second floor, leaving the first floor for her new dream — serving high tea.

Kloch had formerly owned a hair salon followed by nine years of co-ownership of The Country Cottage Restaurant in Pendleton, NY. Shortly after retiring from that line of business, circumstances changed dramatically and the need for a new career surfaced.

“I love serving people, but I knew that I no longer wanted the fast-paced restaurant life, nor could I do the long hours, standing on my feet, styling hair,” says Kloch. “I craved a gentler, slower-paced career in a soothing atmosphere. While on vacation in Colorado, I attended my first high tea. The atmosphere was elegant and calming. Recalling the heartwarming tea party memories from my childhood, I knew I had found my future.

“My children and friends volunteered to help me test hundreds of recipes until we all agreed on the best scones, the sweetest Devonshire cream, and the finest finger-sandwich fillings. Researching the proper accoutrements was a joy and I am proud to offer each of my customers a very fine table set with linen and bone china.”

In addition to the lovely White Linen Tea House, the property is also home to the Shawnee Country Barns, three grand structures filled with antiques and collectibles for an unforgettable shopping experience.

Now, imagine — cozy rooms of a country Victorian, a wrap-around porch and walnut stair rail, all bedecked in swooping garlands of pine and berries. The sweet smell of mulled cider in the air and a Christmas tree adorning each parlor, and you have the perfect place to treat a friend to cranberry-nut scones and Christmas tea.

Treat yourself or someone you love to a holiday gift. Call 731-1685 to make reservations or for gift certificates.

Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., Sat., from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Reservations preferred; private parties upon request.

White Linen Tea House |
6608 Shawnee Rd. (Rt. 425) |
North Tonawanda, NY (Wheatfield) |
731-1685

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