It is a destination of warmth and positivity, not to mention delicious food and an atmosphere that celebrates every person who walks through the doors.
From the moment I entered the quaint restaurant in Clarkesville, Georgia, I knew there was something quite different about it. Surrounded by memorabilia with the feeling of home, Dana Pardue, owner of Alabaster’s Tea Bar, brings the essence of a place to feel welcomed and included.
The story behind the name
The name itself symbolizes a great deal of what Pardue is all about. It is a story from long ago, an account of a broken, unnamed woman who entered a home where Jesus was having a meal. As she sobs, her tears fall on His feet. She breaks her valuable alabaster jar of expensive perfume and pours the sweet-smelling oils over His feet, wiping them with her long hair.
While there are several accounts of this story in the Bible, whether the woman was a prostitute or Mary, a follower of Jesus, the action is to present us with the example of a sacrifice made by someone who loved Him. Someone who gave Him her all.
Pardue says it is her daughters who inspired the name of her restaurant. To her, they represent the alabaster jar of expensive perfume, but I beg to differ.
Open and transparent, Dana speaks of her former life of addiction and all the harshness that goes with such a lifestyle. She is one who has been there and has overcome what used to have a hold on her. Now, she wants to use her experiences to help others.
The name seems to match its owner.
“The Alabaster’s Tea Bar,” Pardue describes, “is something I wanted to create to outlast the bad stuff in my life.” Each day to her is just that – a reminder of where she has been and Who brought her to where she is now.
Faith-based business
The owner is unashamed to express her love and devotion to her faith. On the 4th Thursday of each month, Pardue holds a Bible study for the community. “This month, it will be on the 5th Thursday of the month because of Thanksgiving,” she said, her face glowing.
Dana loves learning about scripture and sharing it with others.
A family affair of sorts, Pardue’s two daughters and her niece work in the restaurant, writing special notes on drink cups and lunch boxes. Encouraging words are what Alabaster’s Tea Bar is all about. And when you leave, it is impossible to go without feeling uplifted and ready to take on the world.
Something for everyone
Offering breakfast and lunch with the convenience of a drive-thru, there is something for everyone. This writer enjoyed a Thai Milk Tea with Tapioca Pearls and a Chicken Salad croissant which tests my allegiance to my mom’s. Biscuits from scratch, desserts, delicious sandwiches, coffees, and teas, you will not only enjoy the food, but you’ll leave invigorated. Whether you need a smile, a lift from a rough day, or prayer, Pardue cares about giving customers exactly what they need.
Pardue is reaching out to the community for help – help to grow her business – and help to keep her doors open. If you have not tried Alabaster’s Tea Bar, she would like to personally invite you to experience the teas, coffees, and satisfying menu options.
“Many people do not know where we are, and I’d like to change that. I know if you try us once, you will come back,” Pardue expressed confidently. “We want to win you over.”
Located in Clarkesville at 596 West Louise Street, Suite D, in the old Clarkesville Drug location. Call ahead for take-out orders: 706-905-5043 or visit the website alabastersteabar.com.
Business Hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Fridays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
