A tasty mix of America and England can be found in Phoenix thanks to sisters Grace and Georgia Unger at their restaurant, The Tuck Shop. Drawing upon their family’s background in food preparation and manufacturing, the Ungers created the Tuck Shop as a place where people could eat and enjoy themselves while feeling comfortable.
The building is a remodeled house in a residential neighborhood which still includes a cozy living room area to create a homey atmosphere. According to one reviewer “The Tuck Shop is the place to be when you’re missing home.” The open space and warm wooden tables create a cheerful ambiance, reflected in the mood of those who are dining.
The restaurant features a variety of American cuisine, as well as a traditional English Afternoon high tea.
The tea service is offered every Saturday from Noon to 3p.m., and holds a special place in the owner’s hearts. Their family hails from England (the girls were born in Manchester) and mother Renate Unger designed the authentic tea menu, which includes their father’s own scone recipe served with Devonshire cream, along with classic finger sandwiches.
The Tuck Shop offers a wide selection of teas, of which 98 percent are from states associated with the Ethical Tea Partnership. Special caffeine-free children’s teas are available in strawberry and Tutti Fruity flavors or, for the grown-ups, you can add champagne to your teatime.
Groups are also welcome to get together for a special tea experience and there are often themed services offered based around events and holidays. Attending a tea service is very popular, so make sure to book a reservation 24 hours in advance.
The Tuck Shop is very popular with restaurant-goers in the area. Reviewers on Yelp have referred to it as a “foodie heaven”, “diamond in the rough”, and “gem of a restaurant,” among other overwhelmingly positive comments. One reviewer even states, “I would drink your bathwater!”
The Tuck Shop is located in the Coronado Historic District at 2245 N 12th St. More information can be found at www.tuckshopphx.com or their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/tuck.shop.14/).
