These Are the Best Places for Afternoon Tea in NYC
Afternoon tea is a staple English practice consisting of delicious tea sandwiches, sweet pastries, and, my favorite, clotted cream and jams. Despite its English origins, New York City boasts several tea experiences that will offer a sense of peace and tranquility during your busy city day. From 3-tier pastry platters to boozy teapots, here are some of my favorite NYC tea spots.
Prince Tea House (several NYC locations)
Prince Tea house is an awesome pick that has multiple locations in the northeast. The cozy ambiance and affordable prices make it the perfect place to enjoy afternoon tea. Each location has a wide array of teapots to choose from, but take note that only several locations offer their 3-tier afternoon tea experience. Check their website for bottomless tea options at each location before you go!
Website: https://www.princeteahouse.com/
Alice’s Tea Cup (both I and II locations)
Alice’s Tea Cup has a cozy ambiance inspired by Alice in Wonderland. A little on the pricier side, the restaurant offers a 3-tier tea experience in addition to a regular restaurant menu. This is also one of the only tea spots that allow its patrons to upgrade to "Tipsy Tea" (+$11.00) for the perfect fun brunch experience.
The Williamsburg Hotel
The Williamsburg Hotel Tea experience (available only Sat-Sun/12 pm-5 pm) is perfect for people who love high-tea but enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere. The hotel is super trendy, clean, and their tea is delicious. You definitely won't be in a heavily trafficked environment, as the restaurant is located by the subdued hotel lobby bar, so it's the perfect place to catch up with a friend or get some work done. Also, the venue is decorated incredibly so get your camera ready to take some photos!
Website: https://www.thewilliamsburghotel.com/eat-drink/the-restaurant-menu
Kitsby Dessert Bar
This is one of my spots located in Brooklyn! Kitsby Dessert Bar serves an amazing Asian American-inspired tea experience featuring a collection of sweets and savories for your enjoyment. For $39 you get 10 bite-sized sweets/savory pastries and 1 main course alongside delicious tea. They also have an awesome a la carte menu of delicious homemade desserts, bubble teas, and more all homemade in-house! I recommend their egg sandwich, its amazing.
Afternoon tea tray at Kitsby Dessert Bar.
Angelina Paris NYC
Angelina Paris is a Parisian tea room located near the historic Bryant Park. Its central NYC location makes it the perfect meet-up spot for groups, and they have several tea options that everyone can enjoy. The ambiance is very luxurious and they're known for their pastries. The options for high-tea start at $26, so definitely check out the menu to see which options best suit you and your budget. Pro Tip: Try Mont-Blanc-- their signature pastry!
The Palm Court
The Palm Court is a restaurant at The Plaza, one of NYC's most iconic hotels. This is the most expensive afternoon tea on the list, so if you're going here you like the finer things and luxurious experiences. Afternoon tea starts at $99 per person and gives you a wide array of tea sandwiches, pastries, and tea options. I'd recommend this location for a special occasion only as there are others on the list that are pretty comparable for half the price. Tea is served daily from 10:30 am - 5:00 pm.
Website: https://www.theplazany.com/dining/the-palm-court/
Mariebelle
Walk to the back of this luxurious chocolate store to experience a lovely afternoon tea experience. Start off with a drink of choice, (mimosa, champagne, bellini) while eating delicious small bites from their 3-tier appetizer spread, and end with your choice of tea, hot chocolate, or coffee. Pro Tip: Book your experience online through FEVER and get $29 off per person!
Mariebelle in NYC
