SOUTHERN ELEGANCE
When diners walk into Ooltewah’s Mountain Oak Tea Room, owner Sonya Guffey said she hopes they feel like they are walking into an antebellum home.
Indeed, the space is charming, cozy and historical. The foyer is lined with antique armchairs and love seats.
Each one of its four dining rooms features a different theme, color scheme and china patterns. This season, each room also features a decorated Christmas tree.
In fact, Mountain Oak is currently displaying 11 Christmas trees throughout its space.
“People love to walk around and just explore,” Sonya said.
Downstairs are the dining areas. Upstairs is Mountain Oak’s wedding chapel, which Sonya just remodeled.
“I took out the stage and replaced it with a fireplace,” she said. “It feels more intimate, more romantic now.”
And Mountain Oak’s menu matches its elegant-but-comforting feel. Specializing in what Sonya calls “afternoon eats,” the menu boasts a variety of options including croissants and scones, soups and salads, and Southern smoked bologna sliders. Of course, there is also tea — 28 flavors. Currently on special is its seasonal Christmas tea.
“It’s cinnamon-y and apple-y,” Sonya said. “It’s festive.”
And, like all that Mountain Oak offers, it is served with a side of classic Southern charm.