New York City might be famous for its coffee culture, but there is an entire world of tea hidden among the bustling streets. These are the kinds of spots where time slows down, scones are warm, and teapots clink against porcelain. In a city that never sleeps, sometimes the most magical thing you can do is pause for a pot of Earl Grey or a flight of herbal infusions.
Whether you’re searching for a whimsical Alice in Wonderland escape, a classic British tearoom, or a modern spot with curated blends, NYC has something for every tea lover. Below, I’ve rounded up the best tea places in New York that feel comforting, a little magical, and perfect for cozy afternoons.
1. Alice’s Tea Cup
Locations: Upper East Side, Upper West Side
Price Range: $$ (average $25–$40 per person for tea service)
Alice’s Tea Cup feels like stepping straight into Lewis Carroll’s storybook. Each location is decorated with fairy wings, twinkling lights, and whimsical touches that make you feel like you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole. The vibe is cozy and charming without being stuffy, and it’s a favorite for both families and adults who still want a little magic in their afternoon.
The star here is the afternoon tea service. You’ll get a tiered tray filled with warm scones, finger sandwiches, and desserts, all paired with your choice of tea from an extensive list. If you want something truly indulgent, try the pumpkin scone with clotted cream. Alice’s also offers kid-friendly menus, making it a fun place to introduce little ones to the ritual of tea.
It’s one of the pricier tea spots in NYC, but you’re paying for the experience as much as the food. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
2. Tea & Sympathy
Location: Greenwich Village
Price Range: $$ (tea and a meal $20–$35)
If you want an authentic British tearoom in Manhattan, Tea & Sympathy is a beloved classic. The small, cozy café is decorated with British memorabilia and feels like you’ve been transported to London. It’s not polished or overly curated, but that’s exactly what makes it feel so genuine.
The menu goes beyond tea service, offering hearty British comfort foods like shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and sticky toffee pudding. Of course, there’s a proper afternoon tea option with scones, clotted cream, and cucumber sandwiches. Their tea list is traditional, with black teas, Earl Grey, and English breakfast being the most popular choices.
One of the best parts of Tea & Sympathy is the atmosphere. It’s warm, unpretentious, and full of character. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger on a rainy afternoon, sipping tea while the world bustles outside.
3. Prince Tea House
Locations: Multiple across NYC (Queens, Brooklyn, East Village)
Price Range: $ (teas and desserts $10–$25 per person)
Prince Tea House is a modern take on the tea café, with locations across the city. The interiors are elegant yet approachable, with pastel tones and plenty of cozy seating. Unlike some of the more traditional tearooms, Prince Tea House leans heavily into Asian-style teas and desserts.
Their menu includes a huge selection of loose-leaf teas, from oolongs to fruit blends, along with Instagram-worthy desserts like mille crepe cakes and matcha lava cakes. Afternoon tea sets are available, though the atmosphere is more casual than formal.
It’s also one of the more affordable options for a tea outing in NYC, making it a great choice if you want to sip something comforting without spending $50 on a full service.
4. Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon
Location: Gramercy Park
Price Range: $$$ (afternoon tea $65 per person)
If you’re looking for a truly elegant tea experience, Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon is the place. Located inside a historic brownstone, this tearoom feels refined, romantic, and almost like stepping back in time.
The prix fixe afternoon tea menu includes five courses, starting with delicate sandwiches and ending with petits fours and chocolate-covered strawberries. The presentation is impeccable, and the service feels more formal compared to the whimsical energy of places like Alice’s Tea Cup.
This is the spot for special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, bridal shower, or simply an indulgent treat-yourself afternoon, Lady Mendl’s feels like an experience rather than just a meal. Reservations are essential since seating is limited.
5. Té Company
Location: West Village
Price Range: $$ (teas and snacks $15–$40 per person)
Té Company is a hidden gem in the West Village that focuses on Taiwanese oolong teas. The atmosphere is quiet and minimalist, with an emphasis on appreciating the tea itself. If you’re someone who loves the ritual of tea, this is a must-visit.
Their staff is knowledgeable and will guide you through the different teas, offering small snacks like tea-infused cookies or pork buns to pair with your cup. It’s less about the full afternoon tea spread and more about slowing down and savoring each sip.
For tea purists, Té Company is a refreshing break from the more theatrical tearooms. It’s a place where the tea itself is the star.
6. Cha-An Teahouse
Location: East Village
Price Range: $$ (average $15–$30 per person)
Tucked away on a quiet second floor in the East Village, Cha-An Teahouse feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. The Japanese-inspired tearoom has wooden accents, dim lighting, and a peaceful vibe that makes you want to curl up with a pot of tea and stay for hours.
Their menu includes traditional Japanese teas, along with small plates like savory onigiri and sweet mochi. They also offer an afternoon tea set with sandwiches, desserts, and seasonal treats.
Cha-An is especially popular in the evenings, since it feels like the perfect spot for an after-dinner tea and dessert. If you want to avoid crowds, try going during the afternoon.
7. Brooklyn High Low
Location: Prospect Heights, Brooklyn
Price Range: $$–$$$ (afternoon tea $40–$60 per person)
Brooklyn High Low is a cozy, vintage-inspired tea parlor that feels both nostalgic and homey. Their afternoon tea service comes in different levels, from a smaller “Cream Tea” with just scones and tea to a full spread with sandwiches and desserts.
The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with mismatched china and eclectic décor that makes it feel like visiting a friend’s quirky living room. It’s a refreshing alternative to more polished Manhattan spots.
If you’re in Brooklyn and don’t feel like trekking into the city, this is one of the best tea experiences you’ll find.
Final Thoughts
New York City has no shortage of coffee shops, but there’s something uniquely comforting about a tea outing. Whether you want the storybook whimsy of Alice’s Tea Cup, the British charm of Tea & Sympathy, the serene quiet of Cha-An, or the elegance of Lady Mandl’s, there’s a tearoom for every mood.
Prices vary from casual $10 cups to full-on $65 afternoon services, but the experience is always about more than the tea itself. These spots invite you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy a break from the chaos of city life.
Next time you’re craving something cozy, skip the everyday coffee line and step into one of these magical tea spots instead.