Where to have Afternoon Tea on the Upper East Side Near the 1871 House

For a very special treat, our guests enjoy taking part in the warmth and comfort of the Elegant Old World tradition of taking afternoon formal high tea. Today we give you our ten favorite places for afternoon tea all located close to 1871 House.

Besides world class museums, the Upper East Side has always done traditional afternoon tea spectacularly well. From grand ballrooms and expensive China to whimsical designs, our neighborhood is truly the best when it comes to high tea. 

The Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel

For over 100 years, The Palm Court has been New York City’s iconic destination for afternoon tea. In 2013, Chef Geoffrey Zakarian re-launched the Palm Court to include a grand bar, tea by Palais des Thés, and a new and revised menu featuring inspired American fare from morning through evening. Children will be especially delighted with the Eloise-inspired tea (shown above). Starts at $70 per person. Fifth Avenue at Central Park South. 

The Pembroke Room at The Lowell
Afternoon tea in The Pembroke Room at the Lowell Hotel is an elegant affair. The tea room is tucked away on the second floor of this Upper East Side spot, which has one of the best tea services in town. Dress in your finest – it’s only fitting for sandwiches of sweet Maine lobster salad and smoked salmon and caviar pinwheels. A true gem indeed. Starts at $55 per person. 28 E. 63rd St

Two E Bar/Lounge at The Pierre
Every afternoon The Pierre hotel’s Two E Bar/Lounge hosts a tea service at 3 pm and 5 pm. You have two options from which to choose: the Traditional Tea Service comes with finger sandwiches, scones with Devonshire cream and lemon curd and pastries. The Sweet Tea Service has scones and pastries. The atmosphere tips toward old-world elegance. Starts at $55 per person. 2 E. 61st St.

Arabelle at the Hotel Plaza Athénée
Arabelle’s renowned afternoon tea is served daily amid the elegant surroundings of Bar Seine. Expertly sourced by Le Palais Des Thés from the world’s best producers, the remarkable teas served at Arabelle match the refined environment to create one of New York City’s best afternoon tea experiences. $55 per person. 37 E. 64th St.

BG Restaurant at Bergdorf Goodman

Star Lounge at Ritz Carlton
The classic and stately Ritz Carlton across from Central Park serves an understated afternoon tea in their richly decorated Star Lounge. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and settle in for a relaxing afternoon tea, served daily from 2 – 4 p.m. $65 per person. 50 Central Park South

The Gallery at The Carlyle

The Gallery serves a complete English tea with exotic teas (including Assam, Lapsang Souchang and Verveine), traditional tea sandwiches, scones with authentic Devonshire cream and fresh pastries. Served from 3 to 5:30 p.m. daily. $52 per person. 35 E. 76th St. 

Kings Carriage House
This absolutely charming carriage house is an Upper East Side treasure, offering the equivalent of a country getaway with delightful service and exceptional dining. An affordable menu seals the deal. $24.95 per person 251 E. 82nd St.

Ladurée