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.
Alice’s Tea Cup
156 E. 64th Street at Lexington Avenue, Manhattan, (212) 486-9200
Alice’s Tea Cup, NYC
What makes Alice’s Tea Cup memorable is its standout decor. Every detail, from the wording of the menus to the butterflies on the walls, is inspired by Lewis Carroll’s iconic novels. And it’s not just the decor that’s exceptional. This is my favorite NYC place for scones, which are large, crumbly and dense. Flavors rotate daily, and there’s always at least one vegan option (often two). If you’re partial to a particular scone, be sure to take your tea early, as they often sell out of certain flavors by the afternoon, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. The tea list is also quite versatile, offering many herbal and caffeine-free options. My favorite is the Herbal Chai, which is super spicy and flavorful without any caffeine.
Alice’s Tea Cup offers four main choices for high tea: The Nibble, the Mad Hatter, the Jabberwocky and the Wee Tea. The Nibble ($25) is for one person only and includes one pot of tea, a choice of one scone, one sandwich and assorted mini cookies. The Mad Hatter ($37) includes a pot of tea, a choice of two scones and two sandwiches, plus mini cookies and your choice of one dessert. You can upgrade the Mad Hatter for two ($45), which includes another pot of tea as well as another choice of scone. The Jabberwocky ($60) comes with one pot of tea, unlimited scones and sandwiches, mini cookies and your choice of dessert. For each person sharing the Jabberwocky there is a $20 surcharge that includes an extra pot of tea. The Wee Tee is $20 per child. It includes a small pot of fruit or herbal tea, a scone, a choice of item from the “Menu for the Small” plus White Rabbit dark chocolate mousse. Alice’s Tea Cup is a truly magical place, and I highly recommend it as THE destination spot for you and your wee one. Tea service is available from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and reservations are only accepted at least 24 hours in advance.
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.