New York City
Our 10 Favorite Places for High Tea in NYC
From vegan and gluten-free high teas, to traditionally luxurious, New York has it all.
Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon
56 Irving Place between 17th and 18th Street, Manhattan, (212) 533-4600
Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon, NYC
Tucked away on a quiet block off of Union Square, high tea at Lady Mendl’s is classy but low-key, sophisticated yet unassuming. It is the quintessential spot for high tea in NYC, and it is also a great choice for events. There’s a variety of rooms available at Lady Mendl’s. What they all have in common is that they’re super girly. Think pink walls, ambient candles, floral wallpaper. Try to sit at the center table in the main dining room. It’s flanked with leather couches and next to the fireplace. Simply divine!
High tea at Lady Mendl’s is a drawn-out, five-course affair. You’ll start out with an amuse bouche (mini appetizer), followed by tea sandwiches such as curried chicken salad on pumpernickel. Next, you’ll enjoy scones with Devonshire clotted cream and preserves plus a slice of Lady Mendl’s signature cake. This is THE cake of crepes and custard that made Lady Mendl’s famous. It’s fabulous and unlike any cake you’ve had before. If your sweet tooth can handle it, you’ll then indulge in a plate of assorted cookies and chocolate covered strawberries. Tea service is $55 per person and is available Wednesday through Sunday only from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Gluten-free high tea is available upon request for a small surcharge. Reservations are accepted and recommended.
Kellie
Seriously thinking of this for my girl, but only one place offered gluten free? TY!
Rebecca
The only spot with a gluten-free option on the list has a note on its website saying they no longer offer gluten-free options. Any new ones you know of? I’d really love to take my girls out for tea when we visit NYC in a couple of weeks!
Gabriella Tooma
Hello!
I am trying to find a great, classy, brunch for my 21st birthday with my best friend. I love high tea, but also a boozy brunch would be awesome! I love dressing up classy and love to stare at a great view. Do you have anything you recommend?
Thanks so much love your blog!
Hilary Rowland
Absolutely! We published an article about the best places to have brunch in NYC: urbanette.com/6-best-brunch-spots-nyc/ Enjoy!
Chris Naselli
Whenever I’m uptown, I always try to have meetings at a fancy tea room because they’re just so glamorous and elegant.
Pearlsbounce
Love this! Will definitely be trying a few on my next trip!
Tami Winbush
Next time I'm in the city I will have to make sure to try Hotel Plaza Athenee. I'm quite enamored by the dark ,warm colors. Tea would be delightful and cozy there.
Zenab Bello-Osagie
I'm not really a tea person but I will definitely try one of these places just for the delicious snacks! I love macaroons!! yum.
Auriane Desombre
Great list! I definitely want to try Bosie Tea Parlor.