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.
Franchia Vegan Cafe
12 Park Avenue between 34th and 35th Street, Manhattan, (212) 213-1001
Franchia Vegan Cafe, NYC
With its ultra-sleek, ultra-modern and minimalist aesthetic, high tea at Franchia Vegan Cafe is a sophisticated and upscale affair. Since high tea is only offered as part of a pre-planned package, it’s the perfect choice for special occasions. The Royal Tea Tray ($27 per person) offers a fun and unique slant on the traditional service. The service takes place over three hours—plenty of time to celebrate and socialize. It is a total experience, combining activities with the actual tea service. For example, during bridal showers the bride-to-be is dressed in traditional Korean garb and taught the customary way of making tea. Food is also served on large communal trays, so guests are free to munch and mingle as much as they please.
The Royal Tea Tray includes trays of six mini appetizers and two mini desserts. The tea selection includes two unusual options: a white peony tea and Franchia’s famous 1st Picked Korean Wild Green Tea. That’s right—this is wild, handpicked tea (as opposed to cultivated). It’s a significant luxury in the world of tea, just the right touch to make the experience extra special. Packages are available on Saturdays only from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. or from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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.