Today we’d like to introduce you to Deneen DiCarlo.
Hi Deneen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I opened the Tea Trolley in October 2025 after retiring early from a 25+ year career in Medicine. Both of my parents worked in the medical field and encouraged all four of their daughters to become physicians, a path I was grateful to follow. I truly loved my years as a Rheumatologist and will always cherish the meaningful relationships I had built with my patients over the decades.
Yet, as I approached my 55th birthday, I felt called to pursue a different career, a dream that has always lived in my heart since childhood. I had always imagined creating a shoppe where I could combine my love for decorating, entertaining, treasure hunting at Estate Sales and bringing people together. When this historic little house on Entrada became available, I knew it was time to take the leap of faith in making this dream a reality.
People often ask me if I miss being a rheumatologist, but what’s so great is that here at the tea shoppe, I feel that I am still caring for people- now just with tea cups instead of my injection kit and stethoscope.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Hahaha! This has truly been a whole New World of learning for me. Running a restaurant and selling tea and scones- are two things that I would have never anticipated doing.
Let’s just sum it up to say that
I have quickly developed a whole new appreciation for all small business owners.
Owning a small business is challenging, exhausting, and often times unpredictable and stressful. -But it is also incredibly rewarding.
During this transition period I’ve been very fortunate to meet so many wonderful guests, as well as talented chefs, crafty vendors and generous mentors who continue to support and guide me along the way.
I’ve also been truly blessed with finding a staff of 3 brilliant and very kind tea servers. All three of my gals came to the Tea Trolley with previous Restaurant experience, and I am grateful for the things that they teach me around the kitchen every single day.!
Even though I still go home each night, completely tired of cutting sandwiches and mopping the floors-, I completely look forward to the returning to the shop the next day, to turn over my open sign once again.
I do this knowing that someone wonderful or something quite delightful always walks through my door each and every day.
That’s the Magic of the Tea Trolley- !
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The Tea Trolley is a charming tea shop/café, and gathering place located on California’s beautiful Central Coast.
We offer an intimate high tea experience on weekends, as well as our signature mini Queen’s tea lunch tower during the week and on Saturday afternoons.
Our historic 1930s Cottage provides a whimsical and enchanted setting filled with distinctive gifts, delicious looseleaf tea, sweet treats, distinctive retail treasures, and unforgettable moments.
Guests can enjoy tea and light bites in our cozy tea room, or relax in our peaceful back patio garden, -an enchanted retreat where time seems to slow down.
Since opening just seven months ago, we have been honored to host, countless celebrations and including birthdays, bridal and Baby Shower showers, anniversaries, book clubs, office, gatherings, and family reunions. We’ve also brought a few larger themed events to the community, including our Bridgerton Tea, Mad Hatter tea party, as well as a little Teddy Bear tea party.
One of the things I am most proud of is creating a space that blends elegance and whimsy in a way that feels welcoming and joyful. While I was fortunate to discover this beautiful historic home, the true heart of the Tea Trolley is the incredible village that has helped bring it to life. From my dedicated staff, who embrace the spirit of my brand so wholeheartedly, to the talented bakers. (one being my best friend since first grade.) and chefs, artisans-craftsman and friends who share their gifts and expertise, this little tea shoppe is truly a community effort.
Above all, I hope visitors leave feeling a little happier. The Tea Trolley is a place where people can slow down, and connect with one another, celebrate life’s special moments, and perhaps even rediscover their inner child. In a world that often moves too fast, we simply invite people to be kind, be present, and enjoy a little Magic here at the Tea Trolley.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I wish I could give you some interesting juicy secret about me, but the truth is that I’m pretty much an open book.
The only thing that surprises people is that behind my 25+ years as a Rheumatologist, is someone who is completely enchanted by whimsy. I’ve never really been a girly girl – at home you will find me in mismatched sweatpants and shirts all day long.
But I TRULY look forward to dressing up for our weekend High Teas.
All my friends know that I love being silly and making people laugh, I love LOVE. I love, glitter and tassels, costumes and magic, music and movies, collecting trinkets and anything mini like tea parties. I adore musicals, storytelling, dancing, and finding ways to bring people together. Creating joy isn’t something I started when I opened the Tea Trolley -it has always been my love language.
So Opening the Tea Trolley wasn’t a reinvention of myself. It was simply giving the whimsical side of me a magical home to share joy with everyone.
Pricing:
- High Tea: $50
- Queens Tea: $24
Contact Info:
- Website: https://TheTeaTrolley.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teatrolleyatascadero/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580717956681&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
