Indulge in the Magic of Afternoon Tea in New York City
Table of Contents
- 1. Indulge in the Magic of Afternoon Tea in New York City
- 2. A Century of Elegance: The Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court
- 3. Indulge in the Art of Afternoon Tea in New York City
- 4. Afternoon Tea in New York City: A Delicious Tradition Awaits
- 5. How have different locations in New York City shaped the variety and style of afternoon tea offerings available?
- 6. A Toast to Tradition: Exploring Afternoon Tea in New York City
- 7. Amelia brighton – Tea Author and Enthusiast
- 8. James Chandler – Head Tea Master, The Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court
Imagine sinking into plush velvet seating, surrounded by elegant decor as you sip a delicate cup of tea. This is the essence of afternoon tea, a beloved British tradition that has found a cherished home in the heart of New York City.
the city offers a delightful array of venues where you can experience the charm of this quintessential ritual, from lavish five-star hotels to charming cafes.
A Century of Elegance: The Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court
At the iconic Plaza Hotel, a tradition of excellence reigns supreme. For over a century, the Palm Court has served up an unforgettable afternoon tea experience. Within this stunning atrium, adorned with soaring palm trees, intricate marble columns, and glittering chandeliers, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
A symphony of culinary delights awaits, presented on tiered cake stands laden with exquisite sandwiches, delectable pastries, and scones warmed to perfection. Savour cucumber and smoked salmon sandwiches, decadent pecan tarts, creamy pear cheesecake, and rich hazelnut mousse, all crafted to tantalize your taste buds. And don’t forget the perfect accompaniment – a vast selection of loose leaf teas sourced from around the globe.
“The eager to please staff makes sure to accommodate specific dietary needs,” adding a personal touch to this already remarkable experience.
The Palm Court’s allure extends to the little ones, with a delightful children’s menu featuring miniature peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, grilled cheese, French toast, and beautifully presented chocolate caramel candied apples, all served on thier own three-tiered platter. Pricing for this exquisite culinary journey starts from $120-$145 per person, with a special rate of $95 for children under 12.
The Palm Court is located at The Plaza Hotel, 768 5th Ave., and can be reached at (212) 546-5300.
Indulge in the Art of Afternoon Tea in New York City
Afternoon tea, a beloved British tradition, has found a cozy home in the heart of New York City.Whether you crave dainty finger sandwiches,warm scones with clotted cream,or an assortment of delectable desserts,the city offers a delightful array of experiences.
Nestled within the Crosby Hotel, a Soho haven, awaits a truly authentic afternoon tea.Presented on a beautifully tiered platter, guests can savor a selection of sandwiches, featuring flavors like turkey salad, smoked salmon, truffled egg salad, and cucumber with lemon labneh and za’atar. Sweet treats like ricotta almond lemon cake,chocolate whoopie pies,and eggnog panna cotta complement the savory offerings,alongside warm scones accompanied by lemon curd,cream,and jam. With over 20 teas to choose from, attentive service ensures a truly memorable experience. Prices are set at $75 per person, and dietary adjustments can be made upon request.
For those seeking a similar experience, sister hotels, The Whitby Hotel in Midtown and the recently opened Warren Street Hotel in Tribeca, also offer the same delightful afternoon tea menu at identical prices.
Step into Alice’s Tea Cup, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s whimsical tale, and be transported to a realm of enchantment. Located on both the Upper East side and Upper West Side, this charming café features a gift shop filled with Alice in Wonderland-themed trinkets. Diners can select their preferred sandwiches from a curated menu, ranging from classic cucumber and chive butter to flavorful hummus, egg salad, and chicken salad.
A touch of old-world elegance awaits at the Russian Tea Room, situated just steps from Carnegie Hall. Established in 1927 by members of the Russian Imperial Ballet, this legendary restaurant has long been a favorite among socialites, artists, and celebrities. After enjoying a selection of teas, guests are presented with a silver three-tiered cake plate brimming with finger sandwiches, including sturgeon with dill and sour cream, curried chicken salad, caviar tasting, tuna, warm scones, and an assortment of delectable desserts.Children, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus are also available. Prices range from $75 for children under 12 to $145 for adults, with a Royal Afternoon Tea option for $160, which includes blinis and a glass of sparkling cider, prosecco, or champagne.
immerse yourself in luxury at the Grand Salon, located within the Baccarat Hotel. Surrounded by sparkling crystal, mirrored walls, and plush lounge-style furniture, this elegant venue offers an unforgettable afternoon tea experience. Alex Reeds can indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, featuring Maine lobster and caviar, chicken liver pate, and coronation chicken, alongside freshly baked warm scones, an array of mini desserts, and the finest teas.
Afternoon Tea in New York City: A Delicious Tradition Awaits
Afternoon tea,that quintessential British tradition,has found a special place in the heart of New York City. Here, classic elegance meets modern flair, offering a range of experiences that cater to every taste and budget.
from historic brownstones to luxurious hotels, there’s a perfect spot to indulge in this delightful ritual. Imagine savoring delicate finger sandwiches,warm scones with clotted cream,and an assortment of sweet treats,all while sipping a pot of fragrant tea.
For those seeking a touch of fairytale magic, the Blue Box Café at Tiffany & Co. offers a truly unforgettable experience. Situated on the sixth floor of the iconic flagship store, this charming café evokes the glamour and sophistication of Audrey Hepburn’s iconic “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” The menu features a selection of delectable pastries and teas, creating a truly memorable afternoon.
Another enchanting option is the Inn at Irving Place. Nestled in the heart of Gramercy Park, this historic brownstone houses a beautifully appointed parlor where a sumptuous five-course afternoon tea is served.Surrounded by antiques and opulent furnishings, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The menu features a delectable array of savories, scones, and dainty petit fours, accompanied by a pot of freshly brewed tea. Don’t miss their signature crepe cake—a true culinary delight.
If you’re looking for a touch of classic elegance,then The Gallery at the Carlyle Hotel is the perfect choice. Located on the Upper East Side, this refined space offers a superb afternoon tea experience. Indulge in a selection of premium teas, exquisitely prepared sandwiches, including smoked salmon, chicken salad, and cucumber, as well as traditional and apple cinnamon scones. Finish your experience with an assortment of petit fours. For an extra special touch, you can add a glass of champagne to your afternoon tea.
How have different locations in New York City shaped the variety and style of afternoon tea offerings available?
A Toast to Tradition: Exploring Afternoon Tea in New York City
Afternoon tea, that timeless ritual of delicate sandwiches, warm scones, and fragrant teas, has firmly established itself in the heart of New York City. To delve into this delightful tradition, we spoke with Amelia Brighton, a tea enthusiast and author of the blog “Tea & Tales,” and James Chandler, the Head Tea Master at the renowned Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court.
Tea truly transcends mere beverage; it’s an experience, a moment of pause in our bustling lives. What first drew you to afternoon tea?
“for me,it’s the history and the ritual. There’s something so comforting about the tradition of gathering around a beautifully set table, enjoying delicate bites and good company over conversation and tea. It’s a tangible connection to a bygone era when life moved at a slower pace.
How do you think afternoon tea has evolved in New York City?
“Afternoon tea in NYC is wonderfully diverse. We have everything from classic, elegant traditions like the Palm Court or The Russian Tea Room to more modern interpretations with unique twists on the classic menu. What ties them all together is that undeniable sense of luxury and indulgence. ”
What advice would you give someone looking to experience afternoon tea for the first time in New York?
“My advice? Don’t think too much! Just go with an open mind and have fun! Embrace the experience—pay attention to the little details, savour each bite, and enjoy the ambiance. And of course,” she adds with a smile, “try a new tea you haven’t had before! ”
James Chandler – Head Tea Master, The Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court
James, you’ve presided over the Palm Court’s afternoon tea for many years. What makes its offering so special?
“The Palm Court is steeped in history,” James explains, his eyes gleaming. “Since 1906, we’ve been creating a magnificent atmosphere for our guests to enjoy this beloved tradition. our focus is on quality – from the freshest ingredients to the finest teas sourced from around the world. “
How do you curate the menu to appeal to a diverse clientele while maintaining the essence of afternoon tea?
” It’s a balancing act,” he nods. “We want to showcase both classic English treats and modern culinary creations. Our signature scones, for exmaple, are made with the finest butter and baked fresh throughout the day. We also offer vegan and gluten-free options to cater to our guests’ dietary needs.It’s all about offering something for everyone while preserving the elegance and refinement of afternoon tea.
What makes the Palm Court experience truly unforgettable?
“The whole ensemble,” James assures. “It’s the stunning atrium, the soaring palm trees, the elegant decor, the impeccable service – it’s a symphony of sensory delights. And, of course, the tea itself! Our tea connoisseurs are dedicated to guiding guests through a wide selection of flavors, helping them discover their new favorites.”
