Lunchtime in downtown Timmins will look a little different after November.
For the last eight years, Aline’s Tea Shop had served up soups, sandwiches, sweet treats, and warm cups of coffee and tea to Timmins residents, but in a Facebook post this morning (Sept 27), owner Claudette Lambert said she will be closing down on Nov. 29.
“It’s been a dream,” she said. “I wanted the post to be positive and uplifting.”
While Aline’s started by serving lunch and dinner, after COVID-19, Lambert found her niche with her soup and sandwich-focused lunch menu. The pizza grilled cheese and dill pickle soup are crowd favorites.
As for what’s next for her, she said she’s not sure yet, but there is one thing about this she is looking forward to.
“I’m looking forward to not having to be up at 4 a.m.,” she said with a smile as she put together sandwiches for takeout.
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The tea shop was packed for the lunch rush, a common sight on Fridays, but as customers lined up to pay, many had fond memories and well-wishes for Lambert. Many referred to it as a place of community and camaraderie.
She said this first day has been hard since the announcement, but she faces it with a wry sense of humour.
The space will be up for lease after November’s closing date, and she has nothing but good thoughts for whoever takes over.
“Whoever is here next, I hope they love it as much as I did,” said Lambert.
The tea shop will close officially on Nov. 29.
“We’ve still got two months,” said Lambert. “We’ll see what the future holds!”
