For a thoroughly modern city, New Yorkers seem to prefer a traditional take on their high tea
1. The New Yorker Tea at The Plaza
Fresh from a refurbishment, the hotel’s lush atrium – The Palm Court – is an iconic place to indulge in afternoon tea. Look forward to local favourites such as lox bagels, egg and dill pickle sandwiches and New York cheesecake.
US$75 or US$95 with a glass of champagne. Daily, 12pm-5pm. Fifth Ave at Central Park South.
2. Afternoon Tea at The Russian Tea Room
For those who like high glitz with their high tea. Be bedazzled by the colourful, crystal-heavy decor as you tuck into caviar blinis and petit fours at this famous NY institution.
US$60 or US$85 with champagne. Daily, 2pm-4.30pm. 150 West 57th St.
A post shared by The Russian Tea Room (@russiantearoom) on Jun 21, 2016 at 3:03pm PDT
3. Royal Tea Service at Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon
Get a taste for the Victorian era at this charming tearoom in one of the city’s historic townhouses. This five-course classic tea, served on beautiful vintage china, is made to be savoured at leisure.
US$59 Wednesday to Friday, 1-4pm and US$59 Saturday to Sunday, 12-5pm. 54 Irving Pl.
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4. Afternoon Tea at Mandarin Oriental
Head up to the Lobby Lounge for some posh nosh and fine views of the Manhattan skyline. Think black truffle brioche, smoked salmon eclairs and pumpkin roulade, with fine teas.
US$48 per person. Daily, 2.30pm-4.30pm. 80 Columbus Circle at 60th St.
5. Children’s Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula
The Gotham Lounge’s kids menu is sure to make adults nostalgic. There’s peanut butter and banana sandwiches, M&M cookies and rice crispy treats, all knocked back with bottomless cups of hot chocolate.
US$35 per child. Daily, 11am-6pm. 700 Fifth Ave at 55th St.
6. Chef’s Tea Service at Bosie Tea Parlour
Get together with a friend or loved one to enjoy this epic epicurean feast, with 24 seasonal canapes, four of the chef’s uniquely flavoured macarons (like 25-year aceto balsamico) and much, much more.
US$120 for two. Reserve 48 hours in advance. 10 Morton St.
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7. English Tea at Alice’s Tea Cup
Calling all Alice in Wonderland fans. Unite with other mad hatters over a whimsical tea at one of three locations inspired by Lewis Caroll’s magical books. Tip: the original, Chapter I, has the biggest shop full of Alice goodies.
Various. Daily. Chapter I, 102 West 73rd St.
SEE ALSO: Brunch: 10 of the best in New York, USA
8. Afternoon Tea for One at Tea & Sympathy
This Greenwich Village hangout is an homage to all things British – ideal for serious anglophiles. Scoff your finger sandwiches, tea and scones in the restaurant, then pick up more tasty Brit bites in the adjoining store, from Cadbury’s Milk Tray to Angel Delight.
US$35. During regular restaurant hours. 108 Greenwich Ave.
– TEXT BY HANNAH STUART-LEACH
This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.
