Mandarin chicken salad at The Gothic House Tea and Eatery

720 S. 10th St., St. Joseph, 232-8115

"The food is all phenomenal at The Gothic House. One of my favorites is the Mandarin chicken salad. After the first bite, I couldn't believe how good it was."

- Mary Skiles, St. Joseph

If you go to The Gothic House Tea and Eatery and think it's just going to be tea and crumpets, you're in for a pleasant surprise. Owner Pat McNaughton serves up a full menu for lunch that should leave the hungriest customer satisfied.

If you go to The Gothic House Tea and Eatery and think it's just going to be tea and crumpets, you're in for a pleasant surprise. Owner Pat McNaughton serves up a full menu for lunch that should leave the hungriest customer satisfied.

Most everything served at this 1869 historic home is made from scratch, and much of it is cooked to order. Every day she offers two soups, which often include oyster or clam chowder as one of the options, and five different quiches. The quiches are served fresh out of the oven in individual ramekins. Meat lovers will like the Italian beef, a family recipe, served on fresh Italian bread. And the Mandarin chicken salad is a meal in itself. Everything is served with buttery cream scones and lemon curd. And of course there are pots of hot tea served in china cups. But if tea isn't your bag, she offers freshly brewed coffee, cocoa, cider and homemade lemonade. And if that's not enough, there's always a choice of decadent desserts. After all that, you won't feel like doing anything but resting in her new garden for outdoor dining. It's not open yet, but it will be starting June 1 for The Gothic House Garden Party from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pat says you will be able to see the garden and sip and sample most of her specialties for one price. The regular lunch entrees range from $4.99 to $7.49.

The Gothic House is open from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every day except Tuesday. Reservations for lunch are suggested, but not required. Afternoon teas from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. are by reservation only.