We’re not in Tuscany Cafe anymore, Toto. Indeed, that was the first thought that crossed my mind when I entered the Lady Camellia Pastry and Tea Room. For many months now, 3261 Prospect Street has been vacant, a sad reminder of the once vibrant late-night pizza bonanza that would faithfully come together every Friday and Saturday night in past semesters. But gone is the dingy lighting, the stained white-washed walls, the linoleum floors, and the masses of drunchie-plagued Hoyas! And in their place, I found soft pink and white wallpaper, gilded china, classy background music, and a glass display case chock full of delectable dessert delights.
Vicky and I sat down, and were immediately presented with a bevy of treats, along with a pot of enchantingly dark and mysterious Assam tea. We began with the scones-one plain, the other cranberry white chocolate. Warm and crumbly, they did not last long, especially after I slathered them in the salty-sweet butter and strawberry jam. They went particularly well with the Assam tea, which countered the sugary scones with an enjoyable bitter palate cleanse. Next up were the cupcakes and macarons.
Courtesy of Vicky Gu
My personal favorite was the salted caramel macaroon–the tan colored macaroon seen below–but the lavender chocolate was no slouch either. The cupcakes were insanely chocolatey. Think crazy chocolate guy from Spongebob, and you’ll get a better idea of what I’m trying to say. The lighter cupcake had a mocha frosting with coffee grounds sprinkled on top, and it took a titanic level of willpower to not lose all sense of manners and shovel the whole thing down my throat in one glorious, manly bite.
Courtesy of Vicky Gu
Although we didn’t get any tea sandwiches, smoked salmon and creme fraiche sounded scrumptious to me. Overall, this little tea shop won me over. It combines a downright regal atmosphere with an equally regal menu of colorful desserts, teas and finger sandwiches. While I fear that the mid-range prices combined with the somewhat smaller portions may ward off college kids in the ‘ramen noodle=life’ mindset, I think this place will appeal to the individual who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of Georgetown for a moment, indulge his or her sweet tooth, and just enjoy the simpler pleasures in life. Cheers, guv’nor.
Courtesy of Vicky Gu
Location: 3261 Prospect St. NW
Hours of Operation: 11am – 6pm