A place for private parties, high tea opens in Victorian Village Plaza

Mac and Vicky Ingles are into collecting antiques. For years the couple traveled from site to site, scooping up a myriad of treasures.

Along the way they've also developed a taste for teas and have frequented several places where they're able to wind down and enjoy an afternoon of high tea.

"It got us to thinking that maybe we could open a place ourselves," Mac Ingles said.

Not long ago while traveling on East Fowler Avenue from their home in New Tampa, he happened to spot a sign saying the former site of The Empress Tea Room in the Victorian Village Plaza was for lease.

"It was too good an opportunity to pass up," said Mac, who has dabbled in many businesses through the years including running a pubic relations firm out of his home and working in the commercial security field.

Long story short, on Monday the couple celebrated the opening of Crown Parlor at 6810 E. Fowler Ave.

While keeping with the former occupant's overall Victorian theme, they've personalized their new business with 19th century-era furniture and paintings, much from their own collection.

"We wanted this place to be elegant and make you feel like you're getting the royal treatment," Mac Ingles said.

On a reservation-only basis, they plan to host private parties of all kinds, including those that celebrate birthdays, engagements, anniversaries, retirements and special holidays. They also can accommodate morning, afternoon and evening business-related gatherings for up to 40 people.

Patrons will have full use of the Victorian dining room and the adjoining Edwardian lounge and courtyard.

They also have the option of either providing their own food, which can be prepared and/or served out of the full-service kitchen, or leaving that issue in the hands of the management team, which has catering contacts.

With advance notice they also will prepare dinner for groups of 10 to 60 people, as well high tea seven days a week both in the afternoon and evening. The latter includes scones, tea sandwiches, petit fours and an assortment of three teas.

Beer, wine and sodas are also available.

"One of the things I want people to know is that they can dress up if they'd like, but they can also come in jeans and be comfortable," said Vicky Ingles, who's had a longtime career in health care management.

"I'd be extremely happy if people want to just come and have pizza and appreciate some fine ambiance and enjoy some fine music," she said.

A gift shop featuring an assortment of antiques and a sampling of Vicky Ingles' vast collection of tea cups and saucers is in the lobby for guests to peruse and purchase.

Prices vary on party and dinner packages depending on the amenities. The cost for high tea is $19.95 per person. Visit www.crownparlor.com for details.

A grand opening celebration with complimentary tea and pastries is on tap from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday.

Call (888) 520-5843 for information.