Undercover Diner Visits Maple Leaf Tea Room

If you are looking for a charming place to treat your mother (or yourself) to something a little more refined than the usual brunch, the newly opened Maple Leaf Tea Room on Commerce Street may just be your next favorite hideaway.

Housed in the former Ploughcroft Tea Room, the Maple Leaf keeps the bones of its predecessor but layers on a gentle, Canadian flourish. The interior has been brightened with blush pink walls and a bounty of floral subtle changes that freshen the space without losing its old-world charm. The owner, a former employee of Ploughcroft, has revived the space with both reverence and a hint of reinvention.

For an early Mother’s Day lunch, I brought my mom for afternoon tea—but we skipped the bottomless teapot in favor of something a little more refreshing: a Sparkling Raspberry Cordial inspired by Anne of Green Gables. Served chilled with a sprig of basil and a single floating raspberry, it was a light, tart refresher perfect for the warm May afternoon.

We each ordered a tea sandwich plate, which came with an assortment of dainty open-faced delights: a creamy egg salad, a nicely spiced curry chicken salad, and a cool, crisp cucumber and cream cheese number that felt straight out of an English garden. The portions were small by design, but each bite was balanced and thoughtfully prepared.

Next, we shared a single scone—which was a wise decision as it was large and satisfying. Crisp on top, pillowy in the center, and closer in texture to a Southern biscuit, it was served with clotted cream and strawberry preserves.

We rounded things out with a split of the sweet treat plate. This was where the Canadian flair really shone through: rich, chocolatey Nanaimo bars, buttery shortbread, zesty lemon shortbread, and a wonderfully dense slice of gingerbread cake.

Service was friendly and warm, though understandably a bit slow two staff members were working in the busy dining room. The wait was never frustrating, but it was noticeable. Still, the full tables were a good sign: people are already discovering this little gem. Pro tip: make a reservation, especially on weekends.

We’re already planning a return visit to sample the heartier fare on the lunch menu—cottage pie, potato frittata, and beef poutine all caught our attention.

Maple Leaf Tea Room may have Canadian roots now, but it is still a cozy and elegant nod to teatime traditions—both old and new.

Bottom Line: Go for the cordial, stay for the scone, and don’t forget to book ahead.

Photos by Undercover Diner