BIG POND, N.S. — After over 30 years in business in Big Pond, Rita’s Tea Room will be closing its doors.
Cape Breton songstress, the late Rita MacNeil, opened the tea room in 1986. In a post on its official Facebook page, it was announced that the iconic tourist stop will be closed this season.
“Since her passing in 2013, I wanted to continue her vision with the tea room, and for six seasons, with some tweaks here and there with displays, menus, etc., we managed to do just that. With this being said, we will be closing Rita’s Tea Room this season,” part of the post reads. “While an extremely tough decision, especially knowing how wonderful all the folks visiting have been, we feel it the right one at this time.”
However, the business will have a space on Charlotte Street in downtown Sydney that will include some of Rita’s displays, a gift shop and some seating for tea, biscuits and desserts.
“We will still be able to offer an overview of the Rita story, including her tea room, etc., making for a unique though different experience,” the post continues. “Additionally, we will be sharing space with The Cape Breton Fudge Co., which also offers fudge making workshops, making it all the more sweeter!”
MacNeil was known for her iconic songs like "Flying on Your Own," "Home I'll Be," "Reason to Believe," and "Working Man.” The platinum-selling artist won a number of awards and was inducted into the Order of Canada in 1992.
