Introduction
Afternoon tea in New York City offers a mix of tradition and charm, providing a magical escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. As a self-proclaimed tea connoisseur, I’ve spent years exploring this cultural experience, and it’s been nothing short of refined and delicious. There’s something uniquely girlish about sitting with a friend, enjoying dainty finger sandwiches, scones smeared with clotted cream and jam, and sipping tea from patterned porcelain cups. It feels like an age-old English tradition, reimagined for the busy city.
The array of charming spots in New York contributes to its thriving afternoon tea scene. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a luxurious tea service or simply taking a break, these places are worth exploring. The best teas combine ambiance, taste, and presentation, creating a moment to savor. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with finding the right spots, and I’ve definitely found them. Each visit feels like a small escape, blending tradition with a touch of modern elegance.
After seven years of exploring NYC, I can say I’ve officially visited every single high tea spot worth your time. The array of charming spots offering afternoon tea in the city is unmatched. This guide, categorized by budget and style, ensures you can find your favourite experience without missing the best. From pictorial guides to updates, every detail is crafted to help you escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city. Whether you’re indulging in dainty sandwiches, scones smeared with clotted cream, or simply enjoying the refined tradition, these places will have you lifting your pinkies with delight.
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What is Afternoon Tea?
Afternoon tea is a cherished British tradition that dates back to the early 19th century, introduced by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. Feeling peckish in the late afternoon, she requested a tray with tea, bread, and cakes in her room to stave off hunger. What began as a simple snack quickly turned into a social event as friends joined her to enjoy light refreshments.
Over time, this practice evolved into a sophisticated ritual featuring fine china, elegant pastries, and an assortment of teas. It’s this blend of history and elegance that makes afternoon tea such a timeless experience. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of light refreshments or the tradition of sharing moments with friends, this ritual continues to bring people together in a refined yet inviting way.
The Best Afternoon Tea in New York City
For those seeking New York’s best afternoon teas, this dazzling list highlights delectable flavors, fragrant teahouses, and refined culinary creations. These are my personal favorite afternoon teas in New York City, offering everything from high-end indulgences to more moderately priced options. Whether you’re looking for sophistication or casual charm, this list, arranged in no particular order, has something for every tea enthusiast.
The Grand Salon at the Baccarat Hotel
Afternoon Tea Price: $85 – $425
The Baccarat Hotel’s Grand Salon defines elegance with its beautiful white and rose-red decorations, accented by glass and chandeliers, creating a classical and royal vibe. The parlor is nothing short of stunning, making it one of the best afternoon tea experiences in New York City. Although expensive, the experience is unparalleled and truly memorable.
The Prince of Wales Afternoon Tea set ($140), crafted under head chef Ashfer Biju, is among my favorites in the city. The teas are superb, perfectly brewed without any bitterness, and the Queen’s Guard blend offers complex flavor notes that are gentle on the palate. The savories are decadent and high-end, featuring ingredients like lobster and caviar in small bites. The thoughtful craftsmanship behind the balance of dessert and savory options ensures nothing is overly sugary, which I greatly appreciated.
If I had to choose a single standout for the best afternoon tea in New York City, the Baccarat Hotel would undoubtedly be my pick!
The Mandarin Oriental, New York
Afternoon Tea Price: $100
The Mandarin Oriental offers a beautiful, high-end afternoon tea experience in an elevated lounge with breathtaking views of Central Park, Billionaire’s Row’s iconic skyscrapers, and Columbus Circle. The staff are incredibly nice, making the experience feel truly special, like being treated as modern royalty. With its luxurious ambiance and gorgeous vistas, it’s easily one of the best afternoon tea spots in New York City.
The standard tea service is priced at $100 per person and includes unlimited tea along with a selection of sweets and savories. The sandwiches are delicious, elegantly cut, and uniquely prepared. The sweets are equally wonderful, and the scones, with their nice crumble, come in delightful varieties like plain, with icing, and berry. The Mandarin Oriental adds a twist by serving lemon curd and clotted cream instead of the more traditional jam, though they also provide strawberry and blueberry jam jars, along with honey, for those who prefer the classic options.
While the tea itself was slightly boring compared to the rest of the excellent service, it was still of good quality. I enjoyed the Earl Grey, my personal favorite, while my friend loved the strawberry tea, which offered a subtle strawberry fragrance paired with the rich flavor of black tea.
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The Vintage Tea Parlor
Afternoon Tea Price: $55
The Vintage Tea Parlor on Staten Island offers one of the best afternoon teas in New York City, though it’s a bit of a trek. This special tea parlor is a charming small business run by the lovely Wendy, a true vintage enthusiast. The team has created a wonderful, warm space filled with unique, real vintage items, from embroidered sofas to one-of-one teapots and cups.
With an entire page of fragrant tea options, it’s a dream for tea enthusiasts. What sets the Vintage Tea Parlor apart is the focus on savory over sweet elements on the tea tower, a rarity in the afternoon tea world. The variety of sandwiches left a great impression, especially since many traditional services can feel overwhelming with sugar and scones.
The highlight, however, is the friendly, inviting staff and the cozy, lovingly decorated space. The slow, intimate tea experience feels truly priceless and makes the Vintage Tea Parlor an unforgettable choice for the best afternoon tea in New York City.
The Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel
Afternoon Tea Price: $118 – $128
Afternoon tea at the Plaza Hotel has been a New York icon for over 100 years. Set in the luxurious Palm Court, this experience is all about its opulent decor, including a stunning stained-glass ceiling, lush greenery, and grand columns that create an unforgettable atmosphere.
The tea service features a carefully curated selection of fine teas, ranging from classic blends to exotic options. Alongside typical savory items like smoked salmon and cucumber sandwiches, there are imaginative additions like a savory fig tart served in a sesame seed waffle cone and savory macarons topped with caviar.
While the quantity of food may be smaller than other locations, the flavors are incredibly creative and unique. Every bite offers a flight of unexpected flavor combinations, ensuring no two tastes are the same. The tea itself is delicious, and I happily finished the whole pot! For its bold take, the Plaza Hotel undoubtedly deserves a spot among the best afternoon teas in New York City.
The Parisian Tea Room
Afternoon Tea Price: $69 – $89
The Parisian Tea Room offers a unique take on afternoon tea in New York City by embracing the French style, known as Le Goûter. Unlike the more formal British afternoon tea, the French tea experience is casual and lighter, with a classic service that includes a salad, a croissant sandwich of choice, and a selection of pastries. These are paired with light, fragrant green teas or herbal infusions for a refreshing treat.
The parlor itself is beautifully colored, filled with natural light, and features an understated design with bright pops of color. Though it’s on the smaller side, like the course menu, the light fare and airy flavors make it an enjoyable experience. The tea selection is wonderful, offering options rarely found in other tea parlors, making it a must-visit for tea lovers. if you want to experience 24 hours in venice i recommend you to read my guide on how to spend 24 hours in venice.
Affordable Afternoon Tea in New York City
Finding the perfect afternoon tea in New York City that’s both delicious and affordable can feel like a dream come true. Living in NYC, I totally understand the struggle of wanting to enjoy a classic teatime experience without having to blow over $100—who has that kind of money lying around? Thankfully, there are hidden gems that have become my favorite picks for a budget-friendly indulgence. These places serve up elegance without breaking the bank, offering the charm of a traditional afternoon spread with a touch of New York flair.
Little Hen
Afternoon Tea Price: $38
For the prettiest and most classic afternoon tea in a sun-filled floral parlor, Little Hen is a must-visit. Nestled in New York, this extension of the beloved Miami staple offers a delicious tea experience at a reasonable price point, making it one of the most affordable spots for afternoon tea in NYC. The scones, baked with fruit, are a personal highlight, adding a unique touch to the menu. While the sweet selection is small, the well-made treats like macarons with their perfect texture and the classic sandwiches ensure a fulfilling experience.
What truly elevates the experience is the gorgeous setting of Little Hen, where sunlight filters through onto the beautifully patterned dishware and elegant tables. It’s an enchanting spot where you’ll want to savor every moment and never feel like leaving this unforgettable afternoon tea experience.
Patisserie Chanson
Afternoon Tea Price: $45 – $65
For a sleek, casual, and bright afternoon tea experience, Patisserie Chanson offers a lovely escape in New York. Though the bakery only features two open-air patio seats, grabbing one ensures a charming European sidewalk dining vibe. Their $45 base tea service includes a gorgeous blooming tea of your choice and an assortment of sweets and savories. If you’re feeling indulgent, an extra $25 unlocks prosecco and seasonal juices for unlimited mimosas—a delightful treat for any occasion.
The tea blends, like Heart’s Desire (green tea, rose, and lily blend) and Summer Love (carnation and osmanthus), are as delightful as they sound. Their savory selections are equally impressive—the shrimp louis lettuce cup stood out as a favorite, while the cheese and chive biscuit offered a delicious change from the usual sweet scones. With its unbeatable value, Patisserie Chanson firmly secures its spot as one of the best afternoon teas in the city.
Prince Tea House
Afternoon Tea Price: $26 – $35
Prince Tea House, a local chain with multiple locations in New York, stands out as a great option for affordable afternoon tea. At just $26 per person, their tea set offers an accessible experience that, while it may lack the quality of high-end services on this list, is still good for those planning to gather a large group, bring young children, or enjoy high tea for the first time.
Cha-An Teahouse
Afternoon Tea Price: $40
For a truly unique afternoon tea experience in New York City, you must visit Cha-An, a charming Japanese teahouse renowned for its traditional sweets and cozy, dimly lit environment. Hidden away on the third floor, this secret gem offers a seasonal, Japanese-inspired fall afternoon tea served in beautifully patterned wagashi boxes.
The traditional sweets are incredible—I couldn’t get enough of the ultra-soft, spongy matcha cream roll cake slice. While the savories are somewhat lacking (likely because Cha-An specializes in desserts), the light sweetness of their treats, paired with classic green teas, made this an absolutely unforgettable experience. If there’s a more unique afternoon tea spot in the city, I haven’t found it!
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Lowell Hotel: Afternoon Tea with Old-World Sophistication
A true dessert destination nestled in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the Lowell Hotel offers a quietly posh affair for those who appreciate the elegance of old money charm. While Baccarat screams new money, the Lowell exudes the grace of Chanel and Dior rather than LV or Gucci. Their afternoon tea is textbook perfection, embodying the quintessential English style. If you’re aiming to impress someone—perhaps a mother-in-law—this is an infallible choice.
For alternatives, the Carlyle and St Regis are also exceptional hotels for high tea, each offering a sophisticated ambience. While the Carlyle can feel a bit rowdy due to its location near the Bemelmans Bar, and the business crowd gathers en masse at the St Regis, both capture a similar refined air. If your budget doesn’t stretch to the grandeur of these options, Lady Mendl’s offers a lower-priced yet equally fancifully-decorated experience in a charming brownstone building—a perfect nod to old money sophistication.
Russian Tea Room: A Visual Feast
The Russian Tea Room in Midtown Manhattan is a dessert destination that’s best described as dining inside a Faberge-like egg. This iconic space, which peaked in the 1990s and early 2000s during the reign of Sex and the City as the “it” TV series, remains one of the most uniquely decorated spaces in the city—especially during the Christmas season. However, more than 20 plus years later, the high tea here is, sadly, a disappointing experience. Come for the enchanting atmosphere, but keep your expectations low for the food.
For a similarly cinematic vibe, Tiffany & Co’s renovated flagship store offers a nostalgic 1950s Hollywood movie feel with its high tea experience. Alternatively, try The Cauldron for a Harry Potter-esque wonderland, especially during the Halloween season. As with the Russian Tea Room, these options are all about the experience, rather than the food.
Whitby Hotel: Trendy Afternoon Tea for Casual Occasions
The Whitby Hotel, a charming dessert destination in Midtown Manhattan, is ideal for casual high tea occasions like an engagement party or baby shower. Alongside its downtown sibling, the Crosby Hotel, it attracts a younger, trendier crowd compared to venues like the Lowell or Carlyle Hotel. Both spots are perfect for an afternoon of chatting with the girl gang over delectable desserts.
For alternative mid-range high tea options in NYC, consider Bluebird or Brooklyn High Low. Bluebird, perched above Columbus Circle in the Upper West Side, offers great window seats and an irresistible sticky date pudding—a reason to return for lunch or dinner. Brooklyn High Low is a bit of a trek near Prospect Park, but it delivers a delightful tea experience worth the journey.
Mariebelle: A Chocolate Lover’s High Tea in Soho
For a chocolate-centric dessert destination in Soho, Manhattan, Mariebelle stands out as a romantic European-style shop perfect for indulging in high tea. Known as one of NYC’s favourite chocolate shops, it’s also a go-to for beautifully-packaged gifts. In the winter, their high tea experience is elevated by a steaming mug of decadent hot chocolate, offering a soothing delight. After countless repeated stopovers following shopping trips, Mariebelle remains a top choice for a cozy, chocolate-filled retreat.
For an alternative dessert shop high tea in NYC, try AnnTremet in the West Village. This patisserie features a seasonally changing menu and is currently one of the cheapest options in the city. Despite its affordability, it offers incredible value, with exquisitely crafted mousse cakes that rival the creations of expensive hotel high teas.
Duo Cafe and Sarisa Cafe: Asian-Inspired Afternoon Teas
Two standout dessert destinations in Manhattan, Duo Cafe in the East Village and Sarisa Cafe in Midtown, bring a unique and flavorful twist to afternoon teas, blending Asian flavors with refined dessert techniques. Opening just last year, both cafes have quickly risen to fame for their distinct offerings.
At Duo Cafe, you’ll find modern Chinese desserts paired with rare Chinese teas in a sleek minimalist space. Meanwhile, Sarisa Cafe presents a high tea infused with Thai flavors, featuring a setting reminiscent of a field of pretty flowers and a platter of trompe l’oeil fruits. We absolutely love both spots and are excited to see more variations of afternoon tea desserts inspired by the diverse countries of Asia.
Alice’s Tea Cup and Tea & Sympathy: The Scone Specialists
When it comes to dessert destinations in Manhattan, Alice’s Tea Cup (with various locations uptown) and Tea & Sympathy in the West Village are two budget-friendly high tea spots ($$) that truly shine in one category: scones. While most NYC tea spots struggle to bake a proper English scone—offering overwhelmingly hard, dry, lumpy, misshapen nuggets—these two places serve some of the better renditions. A proper scone, in our mind, should be a pillowy puff about half the height of a coffee mug, and both locations meet that standard.
However, be prepared to close one eye to the dismal service at both spots, as the scones are the true highlight.
Lillie’s: A Festive Afternoon Tea Wonderland
If you’re seeking a dessert destination with over-the-top Christmas decorations, Lillie’s in Gramercy, Manhattan, is your go-to. Inspired by Rolf’s in the East Village, known for its Amazonian forest of lights (though it doesn’t serve high tea 😦), Lillie’s offers a little bit of high tea paired with a crazy festive atmosphere. The food itself is average, but nothing says festive season quite like spending an afternoon in a cavernous space, where the ceiling is covered in lights, tinsel, and Santa toys, and the sounds of Christmas music blare from giant soundboxes as patrons crash pints of beer to celebrate the end of the year.
For alternative Christmas high teas in NYC, consider Bluebird, the Russian Tea Room, Plaza Hotel, Carlyle Hotel, or AnnTremet Patisserie. While these venues are not as exuberantly decorated as Lillie’s, they cater to a wide spectrum of budgets and special occasions.
Unique Afternoon Tea Experiences for Every Occasion
If you’re visiting NYC to celebrate a special moment like a friend’s college graduation, and want to experience high tea with a touch of something unconventional, there are plenty of amazing options to choose from. With a budget of $50-$130 pp, you can enjoy everything from delicious tea snacks to elegant settings.
For a casual and charming vibe, Alice’s Tea Cup is a go-to tea house, known for its variety of snacks and whimsical atmosphere. If you’re a Benedict gal, you’ll love their selection of benedicts. For something more bougie, The Plaza, Russian Tea Room, or the Blue Box at Tiffany’s offer iconic settings.
For those who want a classic tea experience, Lady Mendl’s and Bergdorf Goodman (with its $75 option and Central Park views) are perfect choices. Looking for something quirky? Try AnnTremet in Chelsea for its creative cheesecakes shaped like bunnies. For a luxurious touch, St. Regis and Baccarat provide fancy and traditional experiences, though Baccarat is noted for its pricey ambiance.
If you’re a foodie, consider Genesis House at Chelsea Market, with its fine dining pavilion vibe, offering Michelin-inspired bites and tisanes. Their Black Sesame Crème Brûlée and Japanese parfait are absolute must-tries. For a scenic retreat, Wave Hill in Riverdale offers afternoon tea in a mansion with gardens, Hudson views, and ingredients sourced from local farms.
Lastly, for a mix of tradition and uniqueness, Oscar Wilde or Brooklyn High Low deliver a unique atmosphere and creative approaches to afternoon tea, making them excellent choices for both locals and visitors alike.
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Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like indulging in the elegant ambiance of an afternoon tea experience in New York City. It has become one of my favorite hobbies, with its delicious tea, beautifully crafted spread of pastries, and delightful sandwiches. I’m always exploring and chasing the best tea experiences both locally and across the world, adding new spots to my list to keep my midday activity fresh and exciting.
If you’re planning to explore some unique tea spots, here are the places I can’t wait to review next: Laduree Soho, BG at Bergdorf’s, Angelina Paris, Lillie’s Victorian, St. Regis New York, Mariebelle, and Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon. Each of these promises to bring something special, from Parisian-inspired charm to Victorian-era elegance. Make sure to save these recommendations as you begin your own journey of discovering the city’s most memorable tea experiences.