The concept of the afternoon tea has long been a part of the western culture since Maria Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, apparently invented the tradition in 1857 in Britain. Nowadays, it has become a firm favorite in many nations, and we know that some of the best places for afternoon tea in New York City have yet to be discovered by you. So, whether you’re a fan of cake, want to celebrate an event, or just want a different socializing event with your friends, afternoon tea is for everyone. From extravagant hotel-style afternoon teas that feel luxurious and grandiose to your friendly neighborhood afternoon-tea joints, we’ve got your covered. Here’s a list of the best places for afternoon tea in New York. Let’s start this food revelation and book today for an unforgettable afternoon-tea experience.
1. Alice's Tea Cup
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The owners wanted to create a space that could whisk New Yorkers away from the hubbub of the city into a magical wonderland. From adults to children alike, this is one of the most popular places for delicious food. It is known for having over 140 different types of teas. Take your children and expect them to dusted with fairy dust and given wings. It’s also a great option if you are celebrating a birthday, a bridal shower, or just a regular Saturday. The menu stretches far beyond just cakes and cute sandwiches as all the produce is local and full meals are offered.
Alice's Tea Cup
Address: 102 W 73rd St,, New York, NY 10023, 212-799-3006
Website: Alice’s Tea Cup
Opening hours: Fri: 11am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
2. Kings' Carriage House
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
With three different ways to enjoy afternoon tea; sitting outdoors, on delivery, or afternoon tea to-go, King’s Carriage has made the classic afternoon tea a much more regular occurrence. At this popular and regal spot, you can enjoy a wide selection of savory and sweet treats in a charming outdoor setting. During most days of the week, Kings Carriage House features a delicious full menu, but on Tuesdays, you can enjoy an extra-special afternoon tea treat. Make sure you reserve in advance.
Kings' Carriage House
Address: 251 East 82nd Street, New York, 10028
Website: Kings’ Carriage House
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)
3. BG Restaurant
Located on the seventh floor of the Bergdorf Goodman Building, you can expect an elegant and sophisticated affair. Afternoon tea takes place in the aristocratic-styled drawing-room that creates an intimate feeling. They describe their menu as light and sparkling, which to us simply means delicious. It is worth noting that guests are required to make a reservation in advance for this popular afternoon tea experience.
BG Restaurant
Address: 754 5th Avenue Seventh Floor, New York, NY 10019
Website: BG Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 2:30am - 5:00pm; Sun: 2:30am - 4pm
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4. The Whitby Hotel
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Firmdale Hotels on Friday, November 17, 2017
If you’re looking for a fancy afternoon tea location where you can enjoy, not only teas but also a delicious sparkling glass of champagne, then look no further than the Whitby Hotel. This restaurant serves a traditional afternoon tea that includes mouthwatering sandwiches and a variety of thick and rich cakes. We especially recommend the Frangelico chocolate torte. It’s a taste sensation. Afternoon tea is served in two main areas, either in the bar or the stunning orangery.
The Whitby Hotel
Address: 18 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
Website: The Whitby Hotel
Opening hours: 1:30pm - 4pm (daily)
New York City Tour Guide
Hiram Jacobs
I am a licensed New York City Department of Consumer Affairs Tour Guide and a native New Yorker. Over the years, I acquired considerable experience organizing solo tours of the major European and East European capitals of the world, Canada's largest cities and Australia's most popular cities, Washington, DC, Atlanta, New Orleans, and San Francisco. During my international travels, I participated in tours organized by private tour companies to China, Russia, South America, India, the Canadian Rockies, Israel, Japan's major cities; USA: Alaska, Arizona and Utah's scenic national National Parks . I received my Master of Arts in Political Science (Urban Administration) from the State University of New York, College at Brockport, Brockport, New York in 1978. Since my recent retirement from the MTA, New York City Transit Authority, after 39 years of service as an Associate Transit Management Analyst, I hope to share with my fellow Travelers my observations, insights and personal experiences relating to Manhattan’s iconic neighborhoods, landmarks and popular attractions that make New York City such a vibrant and dynamic city to visit. I will strive to make your New York City Experience memorable. Tour Cancellations - Please provide at least 24 hours notice prior to the tour date in order to cancel your booking and to receive a full refund.
Tours by Hiram
New York City Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Baccarat Hotel
For another extravagant affair, head to the Baccarat Hotel in New York, where you can relish afternoon tea in the Grand Salon. There are a number of package options that primarily constitute three to five courses. As an example, the three-course menus are made up of a round of sandwiches, fruity and thick scones with traditional clotted cream and jam, and a final course of sweets. We love that all of the packages are given a specific name of historical figures. Anyone for the Prince of Wales, the Sultan Abdulaziz or the Tsar Nicholas II afternoon tea set? Reservations must be made in advance.
Baccarat Hotel
Address: 28 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Website: Baccarat Hotel
Opening hours: 1pm - 4pm (daily)
6. Blank Slate Tea
Editor’s note: establishment is permanently closed
With a number of menu options that suit two people, four people, or larger, Blank Slate Tea is a great option for personal catering. The two-person and four-person menus include mini pastries, sandwiches, and desserts with an upgrade to cocktails. You can even order a fresh bouquet of flowers, ideal if you have a reason to celebrate. The property itself is also an event space that boasts on-tap kombucha, delicious tea lattes, and much more. Be sure to check online for catering and opening times.
Blank Slate Tea
Address: 121 Madison Ave #3, New York, NY 10016, United States
Website: Blank Slate Tea
7. Tea & Sympathy
Opened in 1991, you can be guaranteed the traditional British taste in an American setting. Next door, you’ll find a specialist shop that sells British products. The delicious meals, scones, and cakes are made daily. Of course, the true British scones are served with a dollop of clotted cream and jam. It will get your tastebuds watering at first sight. This spot is popular with celebrities, locals, and tourists alike. It is known for its soft Victoria sponge and warm service. A vegetarian menu is available upon request.
Tea & Sympathy
Address: 108 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
Website: Tea & Sympathy
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 12pm - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 9:30am - 9pm
8. Lady Mendl's Tea Salon
This stunningly chic tea salon has found a home in a traditional 1834 building. The owners wanted to create a space that nodded in honor of the gracious and elegant living of a past era. Sitting in a parlor-themed spot, you can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea but with a modern twist. Wonder what we mean? How about a deliciously rich crepe cake to enjoy? It’s just one of many amazing choices on the menu. For special occasions, you might also consider a glass of champagne.
Lady Mendl's Tea Salon
Address: 56 Irving Pl, New York, NY 10003
Website: Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 1pm - 4pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
9. Bosie Tea Parlor
Editor’s note: establishment is permanently closed
Critically acclaimed as one of the best places to go for afternoon tea, you definitely don’t want to miss out on a visit to Bosie Tea Parlor if you’re in the area. This large space has been well designed to create a number of smaller, intimate dining areas. Bosie is known for having one of the largest tea selections in the city. Their in-house French staff makes all of the buttery and mouth-watering pastries and cakes. There are two packages to choose from, the standard Bosie Tea Service or the Champagne Tea Service.
Bosie Tea Parlor
Address: 506 LaGuardia Pl, New York, NY 10012
Website: Bosie Tea Parlor
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)
10. The Williamsburg Hotel
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Stepping inside the classical Williamsburg Hotel, you’ll be whisked away to an extravagant land. Here, you can taste top-of-the-range teas from the Bellocq Tea Atelier and relish in a number of tempting sandwiches and cakes. We recommend the High Tea for two people course that includes three levels of mixed sweets and savories. If you’d rather something with a bit of sparkle, you can also enjoy a glass of champagne. We love that on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, there is even a live jazz performance so that your afternoon tea experience will feel extra special.
The Williamsburg Hotel
Address: 96 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Website: The Williamsburg Hotel
Opening hours: Sat & Sun: 12pm - 5pm
A satisfying experience
Afternoon tea is an ideal way to spend a few hours enjoying the finest teas and champagnes (in selected venues). Bite-by-bite, you’ll be more amazed at just how good cake can taste. So, if any of these locations have got your mouth watering, ring, and book today. You’ll leave feeling full in both your stomach and your heart.
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