This week our cafe reviewer Angela Cunningham visits Tea Cosies in Yeadon

As we swing open the door into this new little tea shop in Yeadon a bold sign declares “Welcome”, and that’s what we immediately feel – welcome.

It’s cheerful and cosy inside and the staff are friendly.

We have a choice of three of the four tables. One is already occupied by a family group happily tucking in to tea and toast – a late breakfast perhaps? We take a table with an outlook through the large picture windows onto the market square. The Town Hall clock strikes ten and shoppers scurry up and down High Street.

Yeadon has developed into a very pleasant little town over recent years, with a selection of interesting independent shops and an open market on Fridays.

Tea Cosies is a good example of this. Helen Wellock’s skills have converted what was a dingy shop into a tasteful tea room.

The retro furniture is transformed with a lick of softly muted paint, and contrasting vibrant wallpaper lifts one wall.

Floral, lacy and spotty soft furnishings intermingle in toning shades and pretty china adorns every surface – a collection gathered over time by this clever design-led lady.

The counter is groaning with a selection of cakes and bakes – all made on the premises by Helen and her staff of nine.

“Most of our baking is gluten-free,” Helen tells me as I ponder over which cake to try. “We work closely with the local Coeliac Society in an attempt to cater for this ever increasing need.”

I see Dizzy Goddaughter’s face drop, we’ve been disappointed by gluten-free efforts before. Yet, judging by the cakes on display, that’s unlikely this time.

“We believe our gluten-free range is as good as any baking you’d find anywhere.” I’d say she’s underselling herself there, my scone is certainly a winner, she’s a talented cook.

There’s a mouth-watering aroma coming from the kitchen as today’s special, spinach and feta quiche comes out of the oven, golden and steaming.

Had it been nearer lunchtime I’d certainly have enjoyed a slice of that. There’s homemade soup on offer too and a variety of reasonably priced sandwiches that come complete with salad and crisps. I’m reminded that I called in recently with a request for a couple of sandwiches to take out, as time was tight.

This was clearly not a normal request, but in no time at all I was presented with two neat little packages, each secured with a dainty sticker, containing delicious crispy-crust granary sandwiches for our on-the-go picnic.

Tea Cosies will please even the most discerning customer, cakes and bakes are outstanding; tea and coffee comes in pots, to drink from bone china cups and saucers; chandeliers twinkle and lacy topped tables are decorated with fresh flowers in dinky vintage jam jars.

Details

Address/contact:
Tea Cosies
10 High Street
Yeadon
LS19 7PP
07557 944702
Opening Times: Monday to Monday to Thursday 9.15am to 3.30pm
Friday 9.15am to 3.00pm
Saturday 9.15am to 3.30pm
Sunday closed – except for private parties