The Southport Tea House, which opened in 2013 under the ownership of Rick and Linda Pukenas, is now owned and operated by Sherri and Greg French. The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the new ownership.

“We are pleased new owners were secured for The Southport Tea House, as it is unique in the Southport-Oak Island culinary offerings and from what we have had the pleasure of sampling at the Southport Tea House, owners Greg & Sherri French will be a part of our business community for many years to come,” said Karen Sphar, executive vice president of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.

Housed in a vintage Southport bungalow at 611 N. Howe Street, the café specializes in 60 loose-leaf teas from around the world. Lunch and afternoon tea are served Wednesday through Saturday and a plated brunch is served on Sundays. The lunch menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads and quiche and homemade scones, cookies and other baked goods are always available. Royal afternoon tea includes a pot of tea, a choice of finger sandwich, a scone with clotted cream and preserves as well as a shortbread cookie and sweet of the day for $16.95 per person.

All loose-leaf teas are also available to purchase for five dollars per ounce.

“When you come to The Southport Tea House I am asking you to sit at my table, the same as I would if you were at my house,”   said Sherri French.

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