10 Best Places for Afternoon Tea in NYC

Afternoon tea in New York City is a delightful tradition that offers a perfect pause in the bustling city life. This elegant affair, embraced by various iconic locations throughout the city, presents an array of experiences, each unique in its ambiance and offerings.

The decor and ambiance of these tea spots are thoughtfully designed, ranging from the opulence of historical establishments to the cozy and intimate settings of quaint cafes.

It’s a splendid opportunity to indulge in a bit of luxury, enjoy a moment of tranquility, and perhaps even feel like a character in a Victorian novel for an afternoon.

Afternoon tea in New York City is an experience that combines culinary delights with cultural richness and a touch of historical elegance.

Best Places for Afternoon Tea in NYC

Bluebird London

Bluebird London, known for its delicious food and romantic atmosphere, brings a touch of British elegance to New York City’s afternoon tea scene. Located at Columbus Circle, this stylish and sophisticated spot is perfect for celebrating special occasions. The setting is inviting, combining modern aesthetics with a touch of classic charm.

The afternoon tea service at Bluebird London is available from Friday to Sunday and offers a range of classic finger sandwiches, pastries, and some of the city’s best scones. Each item on the menu is carefully prepared, balancing traditional flavors with contemporary twists.

The drink selection includes various teas, and for those looking to elevate their experience, options with Champagne are available.

The Pierre

The Pierre, a Taj Hotel, offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience that is steeped in history and sophistication. Situated on Fifth Avenue, this iconic hotel has been a symbol of New York City’s grandeur since 1930.

Afternoon tea at The Pierre is an event in itself, combining the elegance of its setting with an exquisite selection of teas and delicacies. The tea menu, curated with care, includes a range of full-leaf and herbal selections, with the Taj Spiced Chai being a notable recommendation for its unique flavor.

The afternoon tea service at The Pierre is distinguished by its meticulously crafted savories and sweets. Notable items include the Organic American Caviar Tea Sandwich, which adds a luxurious twist to the traditional tea sandwich selection, and the ginger-flavored scones served with Devonshire Cream, Berry Preserves, and Lemon Curd.

The green tea crème brulee and the opera cake stand out among the sweets for their exceptional flavors. The Pierre’s glass teapot, an elegant piece of serveware, adds a touch of class to the tea service. The setting in the 2E Lounge, combining modern chic with traditional elements, creates a perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon indulgence.

The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel

The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel is one of the most famous venues for afternoon tea in New York City. Known for its opulent setting, the Palm Court feels like a dining experience in an ornate greenhouse, complete with large glass ceilings, marble columns, and lush greenery.

This venue has been serving tea for over a century, making it an iconic part of New York’s history. The tea service here includes a wide selection of loose-leaf teas, complemented by an array of savory items and homemade scones served with Devonshire cream and preserves.

The Palm Court’s tea menu features favorites like the Chai Imperial, and the accompanying savory items are as delicious as they are diverse, including options like pastrami cured salmon and foie gras terrine.

For those with a sweet tooth, the passion fruit macarons and lychee/rose coconut cake are must-tries. The Palm Court, while on the pricier side, offers an afternoon tea experience that is both luxurious and steeped in tradition.

Grand Salon at The Baccarat Hotel

The Grand Salon at The Baccarat Hotel in New York offers an afternoon tea experience that is a blend of opulence, contemporary aesthetics, and exquisite culinary craftsmanship.

This venue, known for its luxurious ambiance, celebrates the legacy of Baccarat, a French crystal company with a rich history. The Grand Salon, adorned with crystal elements and sophisticated decor, provides a backdrop of modern elegance.

The afternoon tea service features an array of colorful finger foods, including foie gras, macarons, and mini sandwiches, along with the unforgettable scones – a highlight for their warmth and sweet flavor. The menu, created by Michelin-starred and James Beard-award-winning chef Gabriel Kreuther, ensures that each item is a culinary delight.

The teas offered include a selection of beautiful teas and tisanes, like Roses and Jasmine, encapsulating the luxury Baccarat is known for. The experience is not just about the food and tea; it’s about the feel of luxury, comfort, and the unique blend of homely comfort with movie splendor that Baccarat Hotel offers.

Blue Box Cafe

The Blue Box Cafe, famously known for its association with the luxury brand Tiffany’s, provides an afternoon tea experience that is both glamorous and iconic.

The cafe’s decor, featuring the trademark Tiffany blue, creates an ambiance reminiscent of a modern-day fairy tale. With windows facing Central Park and walls adorned with fine bone china, the setting is both dreamy and luxurious.

The afternoon tea menu, crafted by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud, includes an array of tea sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The culinary offerings range from elegant egg and watercress sandwiches to delightful sweet treats like peach eton mess and dulce de leche éclair.

The selection is diverse, ensuring that there’s something to cater to every palate. The Blue Box Cafe is more than just a dining experience; it’s a journey into a world of refined elegance and culinary excellence.

The Russian Tea Room

The Russian Tea Room, a landmark in New York City, offers an afternoon tea service that is rich in history and cultural heritage.

Known for its lavish green, gold, and red decor, the Tea Room provides an ambiance that is both opulent and nostalgically elegant. Its proximity to Carnegie Hall adds to its allure as a quintessential New York experience.

The afternoon tea menu features a variety of classic tea selections, including English breakfast and rooibos chai, accompanied by an assortment of scones, petits fours, and sandwiches. Highlights include the smoked sturgeon sandwich and curried chicken salad, offering a unique twist on traditional tea fare.

The Whitby Hotel

The Whitby Hotel’s afternoon tea is a harmonious blend of traditional charm and contemporary flair, located in a beautifully appointed setting. The hotel offers two distinct afternoon tea packages: a traditional option and a unique, healthy, gluten-free alternative.

Both menus feature a delightful assortment of savories, including innovative items like sweet corn empanadas and grilled nectarine baskets, along with pastries and scones. The gluten-free scones served with cashew cream are particularly noteworthy, offering a healthy yet indulgent twist to the classic scone.

The Whitby Hotel creates an atmosphere that is both relaxing and stylish, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea experience with a modern touch.

Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon

Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon, nestled in a charming Gramercy brownstone, provides an afternoon tea experience that evokes the elegance of a bygone era. This salon is an ideal destination for those who appreciate the art of traditional tea service in a setting that reflects the grace and sophistication of Victorian times.

The ambiance, with its museum-quality vintage furniture, transports guests to a period of refined leisure. The salon is renowned for its exceptional scones and tea sandwiches, which are as delightful in flavor as they are in presentation.

The tea service here is a leisurely affair, encouraging guests to embrace the slower pace and savor each bite. On Thursday evenings, the salon transforms, offering a burlesque show that adds a contemporary twist to the vintage space.

Alice’s Tea Cup

Alice’s Tea Cup brings the whimsical charm of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” to life in New York City. This enchanting tea house, with its several locations, offers a magical retreat from the bustling city streets.

Each site is uniquely adorned, featuring decorations and motifs inspired by the classic tale, creating an immersive storybook experience for visitors of all ages. The café is not only a place for tea but also a boutique offering a variety of Wonderland-themed items, making it a treasure trove for fans of the story.

The menu includes an array of delicious scones, muffins, and other baked goods, all crafted with a creative twist that reflects the whimsical theme.

Nino’s Bellissima

Nino’s Bellissima in Midtown Manhattan is a distinguished destination for afternoon tea, offering an experience that is both opulent and intimate. This venue stands out for its refined setting, ideal for those seeking a luxurious tea experience in the heart of the city.

At Nino’s Bellissima, guests can enjoy an array of meticulously prepared sweet and savory items, complemented by an impressive selection of teas. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the artisanal breads and scones to the hand-finished touches that ensure unparalleled freshness and flavor.

The ambiance at Nino’s Bellissima is characterized by its upscale elegance, making it a favored spot for special occasions or a sophisticated afternoon indulgence.

Final Thoughts

New York City’s afternoon tea scene is a splendid tableau of history, elegance, and culinary artistry. Each venue offers a unique experience that transcends the mere act of sipping tea, embodying a special aspect of New York’s diverse and rich cultural tapestry.

These establishments not only cater to the palate with their exquisite selections of teas and delicacies but also engage the senses with their distinct atmospheres.

They offer a journey through time and taste, leaving visitors and locals alike with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this timeless tradition.