In 1994 I had no idea what I was doing, I thought I was opening a Tea Room. With no business experience, I didn't even know how to write a check. I called momma one day and told her "they actually have trucks that will bring the food to me, I don't have to go to Delchamps". Ten days before opening, Alec Namam, my cousin, informed me I was opening a restaurant and needed a menu. He wrote it, taught me the recipes, and how to cook. Alec and his team stayed with me for a couple of months to make sure I got on my feet, I'm grateful.
I spent seven years with a negative balance in my checking account. Up every night calling the bank, checking my balance to see how far behind the account was. I once paid my employees with the change in the cash register, so you want to open a restaurant huh? I never gave up, believing some day I'd catch up and turn the corner.
In 1999 I was able to buy the building that now has my family name on it, The Zoghby Moore building. Located on Dauphin Street, in the heart of the arts and entertainment district, considered ground zero for downtown redevelopment.
In 2001, the Archdiocese gave the city land in front of the Cathedral Church and Spot of Tea. With the condition no restrooms could ever be built on it, Cathedral Square was born, now considered the nicest park downtown. The city also built a crosswalk from my front door to the Cathedral Square, thanks city.
In 2003 Mayor Dow and I started a vision of my sidewalk café'. It was developed over a few years, and still evolves today. The city has given me a Right Of Way agreement for the sidewalk café' and the tables in the Square, making it pet friendly.
In 2009 I built the balcony with a spiral staircase to it, we now seat about one hundred guests outside between all the different spaces.
Today we're considered the flagship restaurant of Mobile, with a reputation of great service and consistent great food. We now have a community outreach service, of which I'm very proud. We give back to our city that's given us so much.
We're presently rebranding for the first time ever. A new logo, pet friendly, Eco-Friendly and friendly faces are our main rebranding points.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the evolution of the Spot of Tea. We look forward to the next twenty seven years!
Sincerely, Tony Moore, proud owner since 1994
