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.
Astor Court at the St. Regis Hotel
2 E. 55th Street at Fifth Avenue, Manhattan,
Astor Court at the St. Regis Hotel, NYC
Named after its builder, John Jacob Astor, high tea at the Astor Court at the St. Regis Hotel is a traditional high tea experience without being stuffy. The setting is intimate with much attention given to the details. There are only fifteen linen-topped tables available. The intricately painted walls, plushly cushioned chairs, custom-made china and exquisite, ambient chandeliers all create a sense of timeless luxury. An added bonus: live music often accompanies high tea.
Whereas most high teas serve all edibles at once, high tea at the Astor Court is served in two stages. This emphasizes the slow, leisurely pace that often characterizes high tea, making guests feel that they can truly settle in and enjoy. First, dainty finger sandwiches are served to guests individually, as opposed to on a communal plate. Guests are also served tea individually, each receiving their own tea kettle and pitcher of cream. This is followed by a tiered tray of scones, petit fours and other sweets, such as almond pineapple tea cake. Scones are served with the traditional Devonshire cream and jam, as well as lemon curd, which offers a tart, slightly off-the-beaten path option. Guests can choose from over 20 different types of tea including a St. Regis Blend, which combines Keemun and Ceylon tea with bergamot and blackcurrants. Tea is $55 per person, $70 with a glass of champagne, and is served daily from 3 p.m. to 5 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.