Shop like a Southerner

(NECEE REGIS FOR THE BOSTON GLOBE)

MARIETTA, Ga. - Historic Marietta Square, about 20 miles northwest of Atlanta, is home to well-preserved late-19th and early-20th-century buildings that house specialty boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and antiques stores. Last year, Felecia Prezzano and Tina Sivadon bought the thriving Vineyard Gift Shop, which sells vintage clothing, gifts, costume jewelry, ceramics, and tea products. About 20 vendors are represented in the sprawling space, making it feel like an indoor community yard sale.

Prezzano and Sivadon also have breathed new life into a former tea parlor on the vacant second floor. Today, the rambling series of fancifully decorated rooms operates as the Vineyard Café. Open from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., the cafe serves homemade soups, salads, and other light and tasty treats like quiche, parmesan-spinach bites, and grilled panini and pizzettes. A local favorite is their signature oversized flaky croissant filled with piquant chicken and dried cranberry and almond salad.

Tea service is available. Sit in one of the large bay windows overlooking Glover Park and enjoy fresh baked scones, cookies, breads, and fruit spreads served with your choice of black, green, or herbal teas.

Vineyard Gift Shop and Café, 21 West Park Square, Marietta, Ga. Gift shop 678-581-3777; cafe 678-581-3771. Basic tea service $12.99 includes baked goods; for $17.95 add a cup of soup and assorted tea sandwiches.

NECEE REGIS