7 Luxurious Spots for Afternoon High Tea in New York

The hustle and bustle of Manhattan can take a toll on anyone, and when it does, there’s no better (and hauter) way to unwind than afternoon tea. So for those extra stressful days, or times you want to gather with friends, consider a relaxing, elegant and calm hour of tea, scones and sandwiches. To make things easier, Haute Living has carefully crafted the ultimate guide to afternoon tea in The Big Apple.

The Plaza Hotel
768 5th Avenue
(212) 546-5300

Photo Credit: New York Family

Known for its unparalleled splendor, The Plaza only offers the crème de la crème, especially when it comes to their high tea at The Palm Court. Choose from their set menus, like The New Yorker and Eloise Tea, for savory snacks and sweet treats to accompany their premium loose-leaf teas.

The Pierre
2 E 61st Street
(212) 838-8000

Photo Credit: Angelina Jolin

Sip on the off-menu “Warm Sunrise”—a harmonious blend of chamomile, cinnamon, fresh lemon and orange, and honey—while you sample their delicious caviar-topped blini, caramel eclairs, lemon meringues, and smoked trout sandwiches.

The Ritz-Carlton
50 Central Park South
(212) 308-9100

Photo Credit: Luxury Blackbook

Make your reservations today for an elegant afternoon of high tea at the famed Ritz-Carlton. Pair specialty teas with petit fours and black truffle sandwiches at the Star Lounge for an upscale version of R&R.

The Russian Tea Room
150 W 57th Street
(212) 581-7100

Photo Credit: The Russian Tea Room

When it comes to afternoon high tea, The Russian Tea Room is the ultimate Manhattan go-to. Opt for the Royal Afternoon Tea menu and indulge in the gourmet blinis, seasonal scones, and of course, loose leaf teas.

Mandarin Oriental
80 Columbus Circle
(212) 805-8800

Photo Credit: PR Web

What better view for afternoon high tea than that of the Mandarin Oriental’s 35th floor? The luxurious hotel serves house-made marmalade with its sugar scones, edamame hummus, carrot cake, Asian chicken salad and more—including its renowned tea, of course.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée
37 E 64th Street
(212) 734-9100

Photo Credit: Oh How Civilized

For a French twist on high tea, head over to Hôtel Athénée and pamper yourself with luxury teas from Le Palais Des Thés, homemade scones and clotted cream and of course, miniature pastries. Don’t forget to add the champagne!

The Lowell
28 E 63rd Street
(212) 838-1400

Photo Credit: Lowell Hotel

Tucked away in The Pembroke Room, this Upper East Side high tea spot offers a personalized experience with waiters who pair loose leaf teas with scrumptious meals, including Maine lobster salad, caviar pinwheels and specialty scones.