Ravenna – It was a typical Wednesday, and this reporter had errands to run. Okay, it wasn’t too typical for North Eastern Ohio in March – it was a beautiful day! Rather than driving to multiple locations, the price of gas combined with the weather to encourage me to park downtown and do my errands on foot.
I am so very happy I did! The first thing I saw on my impromptu walk was a sidewalk sign, simply stating “Taco Salad, Susie K’s, Open 11 to 3.’ My feet turned into the quaint restaurant of their own volition. I had no choice but to follow.
Upon entering, I was greeted by a departing guest. As he held the door for me to pass, he said, “It’s great, you’re gonna love it!” Now, that is word-of-mouth advertising at its best. I entered a small, adorably decorated cafe and tea room. Each table was beautifully set, with details making each setting unique. I chose a small table for two, and settled in for a wonderful experience. A china tea cup, woven place mat, and a crystal basket of tea was set off by a cute kitty teapot.
The tea selection went from black tea to herbal. The Star Trek geek in me wanted to order, “Tea, Earl Grey, Hot!” but the lemon ginger smelled too good to pass up. The waitress, Amanda, set me up with hot water, and shared the specials for the day. There is a regular menu of soups and sandwiches, which is alternated with special salads, wraps and desserts. I ordered French Onion soup, and the advertised Taco Salad that brought me in the door.
As I sipped my tea, I was too enthralled by the atmosphere to read on my phone as planned, so I engaged in the time-honored habit of people watching. There was one table of ladies that seemed so at home that they must be regulars. The owner, Susie Kohl, went from table to table, talking with each guest as she assisted the waitress. The cook, Ben, came out of the kitchen to greet another table. The overall feeling of welcome and happiness was palpable. I had to meet the owner.
Susie introduced herself, and shared some information about her business. She is the sole proprietor, though she is often helped by family members, she has one ‘employee’ JoDell. Having been in food service in many capacities, she crafted Susie K’s Café and Tea Room to be more personal, a way she can get to know her guests. She opened the doors in 1994, and has looked forward to each and every day she is open. The table of ladies noted earlier-they are the ‘sisters.’ They have been coming here every Wednesday for twenty years. The friendly atmosphere has made many long-term, happy guests.
There is a lovely cabinet that holds many tea cups and saucers. Somehow, she is always acquiring tea cups. Some are purchased, some are given, some appear… creating a need for a structure to display them. She and a friend discussed this need, then drew some pictures. This friend happens to be a carpenter, so Susie ends up with a display case made to order. Be sure to peek at the different cups, from ornate to seasonal to whimsical. She changes out the display and the table settings to reflect the seasons and holidays. Sometimes she uses the cups as a base for basket donations, such as a fund raiser. Tea cup, an assortment of teas, honey — this reporter would bid on that!
If you are looking for a place to hold a party or a shower, perhaps you should consider the Tea Room! Susie caters for bridal and baby showers, parties, club functions and the like. She will work with the host, setting the menu of finger sandwiches, fruit plates and muffins. And, of course, tea!
The Quarantine of 2020 shut Susie K’s down for a while. With the limited amount of seating, 34 guest capacity, it would be difficult to seat the guests in a manner consistent with social distancing suggestions. As the community and state opened back up, Susie was happy to see her extended family returning.
My food came out, and it was definitely worth the detour from my day. Perfectly portioned, reasonably priced and very tasty! Having a drink, soup and salad came to less than $15.00. Say hello to your next regular customer, Susie!
So, be sure to stop in at Susie K’s Café and Tea Room, at 145 E. Main Street. Hours are Wednesday through Friday 11:00am to 3:00pm, and Saturday 11:00am to 2:00pm. Give them a call at 330-296-3779, perhaps to find out the yummy specials in your future. Maybe give them a Like on Facebook. In honor of Saint Paddy’s Day, this week the special will be a reuben wrap, and potato soup. A great way to usher in the celebrations and shenanigans that makes this holiday a favorite!
