Finding places that allow parents and children to both enjoy themselves can be a challenge and usually involves pizza and arcade games. The Teapot, a coffee shop in Phoenix, is a new alternative.
The Teapot is a family-oriented coffee shop located on 5th Ave. off of Roosevelt in Downtown Phoenix. Started by Raelynne and Jonathon Pring, The Teapot offers a place for parents to enjoy coffee while children play without the fear of bothering other patrons. The concept came from the couple’s personal experiences with their three-year-old son.
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Photos: Logan Fowler
“It was always hard to go out, because one of us would be at the table and the other would be off with Leyland and then we would switch,” Raelynne said.
Raelynne, who is also a freelance interior designer, decorated the renovated 1906 house to be inviting with a simple color palette and lots of light. The inside has plenty or tables for parents or other patrons to work and a “Kids Corner” with toys for children to play. The outside features an open grassy backyard with a custom playhouse and plenty of space for children’s energy to burst.
The menu features pressed juices, latte’s, Americanos and teas, both hot and iced. Different snack items are offered daily, such as scones, cakes and quiches. Packaged children’s snacks are also for sale, like Goldfish.
“Mom’s always have suggestion, like ‘maybe have more kids snacks or more lunch item’ so that’s been great and helpful,” Raelynne said.
A lunch pack was recently added to the menu, featuring a sandwich and a small salad to maintain a picnic-y aspect. The couple is also hoping to hold special events, such as Mad Hatter tea parties.
“We just want something fun, new and fresh every month or more often for parents and kids to enjoy,” Raelynne said.
The opening in March was a “soft launch” according to Raelynne. The couple did very little advertising and is very happy at the support they have received so far.
They have over 1,500 Facebook likes, over 500 Instagram followers and have been very busy in their short time of business. The backyard is usually filled with moms chatting on blankets and children running around. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. seem to be their busiest times so far, according to Jonathon. One yoga class has been held, with more to come this fall, according to the shops Instagram.
The Teapot will close during July and August, and make any adjustments or renovations the couple feels they need to make. The re-opening in September will be their “grand’ opening.
The Teapot is open Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
