Corrales Teas and Chocolates celebrates expansion

Corrales Teas and Chocolates Eatery has added a new shop area to the already large tea room and celebrated its four-year anniversary with a ribbon cutting April 19.

Owner Janelle Boyle says the shop has estate sale items that change weekly and there's always something different people can take home.

"We have over a hundred different types of tea you can buy and take home. We have 63 teas on our menu that you can come in and have a pot of tea and enjoy a sandwich. Come with friends, come with the group, come by yourself. We have great chocolates and popcorns," she explained.

Corrales leaders and the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce expressed excitement for the expansion and the tea room's contributions to the community.

Corrales Mayor James Fahey Jr. said his wife goes to the tea room at least once a week.

"Oh my gosh, this is fantastic. I can tell you that my wife really enjoys your place. She comes here every Wednesday and enjoys all the stuff you have," he said.

Corrales MainStreet Director Angela Gutierrez says the tea spot helps add to the family and community presence in Corrales.

"We don't have a traditional Main Street in Corrales, but we've got these nodes, hubs of activity if you will. This has just been a beautiful addition to all of it," Gutierrez said.

Lastly, RRRCC President and CEO Jerry Schalow says he is "astonished" at the size of the place compared to its start as a small tea room.

"For those folks who haven't been here yet or have been here in the past, you're going to be just like me and just astonished it's three times the size now. You just keep on growing and growing growing," he said.

He also joked that the tea room is basically Corrales' mall.

The tea room staff dressed up in steam punk attire to go with the theme of the day. The re-opening after the expansion brings not only the shop but updated menus and teas.

"You have to come down to appreciate what we have here. Great stuff right here in the heart of Corrales," Boyle ended.

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