Where to Find the Best Afternoon Tea in New York City
New York City is home to a variety of afternoon tea experiences, from classic high tea in grand hotels to intimate tea rooms with a cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a refined setting or something more casual, there’s a spot for every preference. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea in the city.
List of Best Afternoon Tea Places in New York City
1. The Grand Salon at the Baccarat Hotel
The Baccarat Hotel’s afternoon tea service in the Grand Salon is a polished affair. Guests can enjoy a selection of rare teas, expertly crafted pastries, and light sandwiches. The space, defined by its crystal chandeliers and sophisticated decor, makes for an elevated experience.
- Website: Baccarat Hotel Afternoon Tea
- Address: 28 West 53rd Street, New York, NY 10019
- Phone: (212) 790-8800
- Price: Starting at $140 per person
2. The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel
The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel is one of the most well-known afternoon tea destinations in the city. Served beneath a striking glass ceiling, the tea menu includes a variety of finely prepared sandwiches, warm scones, and delicate pastries.
- Website: The Palm Court at The Plaza
- Address: 768 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019
- Phone: (212) 546-5300
- Price: From $120 per person
3. The Whitby Hotel
Situated in Midtown, The Whitby Hotel offers a relaxed yet refined afternoon tea experience. The light-filled space, accented by colorful china, enhances the enjoyment of a menu that includes a mix of classic and creative bites.
- Website: The Whitby Hotel Afternoon Tea
- Address: 18 West 56th Street, New York, NY 10019
- Phone: (212) 586-5656
- Price: From $75 per person
4. Tea & Sympathy
This West Village tea shop specializes in a traditional British afternoon tea experience. Guests can enjoy classic sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a selection of house-made cakes in a setting that feels like a visit to an old-fashioned tearoom.
- Website: Tea & Sympathy
- Address: 108 Greenwich Avenue, New York, NY 10011
- Phone: (212) 989-9735
- Price: Approximately $60 per person
5. The Carlyle
The Gallery at The Carlyle is a quiet, understated place for afternoon tea. The European-style interior and thoughtfully curated selection of teas and pastries make it an excellent choice for a peaceful afternoon.
- Website: The Carlyle Afternoon Tea
- Address: 35 East 76th Street, New York, NY 10021
- Phone: (212) 744-1600
- Price: From $75 per person
6. Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon
Set in a Gramercy Park brownstone, Lady Mendl’s serves a five-course afternoon tea featuring gourmet sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and their signature mille crêpe cake. The intimate parlor setting makes for a relaxed and enjoyable outing.
- Website: Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon
- Address: 56 Irving Place, New York, NY 10003
- Phone: (212) 533-4600
- Price: Approximately $89 per person
7. BG Restaurant at Bergdorf Goodman
Overlooking Central Park, BG Restaurant inside Bergdorf Goodman provides an elegant setting for afternoon tea. The menu features a thoughtfully selected assortment of teas, sandwiches, and pastries, making it a great spot for a refined tea experience.
- Website: BG Restaurant Afternoon Tea
- Address: 754 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019
- Phone: (212) 872-9877
- Price: Approximately $75 per person
8. The Russian Tea Room
A Midtown classic, The Russian Tea Room’s afternoon tea service includes an assortment of classic teas as well as Russian specialties like blinis with caviar. The richly decorated interior adds to the experience.
- Website: The Russian Tea Room
- Address: 150 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019
- Phone: (212) 581-7100
- Price: Approximately $80 per person
9. Alice’s Tea Cup
With multiple locations in the city, Alice’s Tea Cup is known for its playful and relaxed take on afternoon tea. Their menu features a wide range of teas, fresh scones, and a mix of sandwiches and desserts.
- Website: Alice’s Tea Cup
- Address: 102 West 73rd Street, New York, NY 10023 (Chapter I), Multiple locations
- Price: Approximately $55 per person
10. King’s Carriage House
Located in a historic Upper East Side carriage house, this tea room provides a classic English afternoon tea experience. Guests can enjoy a selection of traditional teas, freshly baked scones, and an assortment of sandwiches and pastries.
- Website: King’s Carriage House
- Address: 251 East 82nd Street, New York, NY 10028
- Phone: (212) 734-5490
- Price: $45.95 per person for Afternoon Tea; $55.95 per person for High Tea
- Best-seller: Currant scones with cream and jam
New York City has a diverse range of afternoon tea experiences, from elegant hotel settings to more casual and intimate tea rooms. Whether you’re in the mood for a formal affair or a laid-back gathering, these spots offer a great way to enjoy quality tea and delicious bites. Be sure to check availability and make a reservation in advance. If you’re looking for more great places to eat in NYC, take a look at our guide to the best pizza places in the city, because nothing beats following up afternoon tea with a classic New York slice.
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