The Tea Pot has been open in Cayce for more than 20 years and it is the go-to spot for Chinese food. The owners are Sophia Chen and Ken Zeng, wife and husband.

Tea Pot Chinese Restaurant, at 829 Knox Abbott Drive, offers authentic Chinese, and traditional Asian cuisine for dine-in and take-out fare. It’s known for its variety in taste and high-quality fresh ingredients. Experience the atmosphere with excellent service from the friendly and loyal staff, or have your order delivered to your home. 

Tea Pot opened in 2001 as Cayce’s only Chinese cuisine. Since then, Tea Pot has become like a family member of the Cayce Community.

“We have former employees who come back years after they have left,” Sophia said. “A USC student moved to Cincinnati, but years later, after his son was born, he brought him back for us to see him. It was so sweet, it touched my heart.” 

Sophia also said that couples who came to Tea Pot when they were dating have gotten married and they send Sophia pictures of their wedding, and get Tea Pot take-out as they leave for their honeymoon. “It’s wonderful,” she said. “I have such sweet memories of so many customers and former employees.” 

Cayce Mayor Elise Partin said she appreciates Tea Pot.  

“Tea Pot is a vibrant part of the Cayce community,” she said. “It’s a small business and small business is the fabric of our city.”

The Mayor also said the Tea Pot has fed a lot of students in the area. Sophia said much of the popularity of the restaurant is because of its good reputation. People find out about it from word-of-mouth testimonials. Tea Pot is also an annual Christmas dining tradition for many families. 

In addition to serving a local clientele, Tea Pot participates in the Columbia International Festival and Chinese New Year’s events at River Bluff High School and at the Tea Pot. 

Sophia also said the Tea Pot has a great relationship with the City of Cayce. She is thankful for the level of city services she receives from the police department and others. Sophia has also served as a member of Cayce’s Accommodations Tax Committee and she is glad to be in a growing city with nice and friendly people.

“I have seen a lot of growth on Knox-Abbott Drive,” she said. “In the last two or three years so much more business has come in around us. I feel lucky to be here.”