Tea sandwiches, with their delicate textures and intricate flavor profiles, are a quintessential part of the culinary scene in New York City. These delightful morsels, often served during afternoon tea or as elegant hors d’oeuvres, can be found in various neighborhoods, each offering a unique twist on the classic recipe. From artisanal bakeries to high-end tea salons, New York’s diverse neighborhoods showcase an array of tea sandwiches that reflect both tradition and innovation. Here’s a curated list of ten exceptional tea sandwiches to seek out in the city, complete with addresses, contact information, and websites for your convenience.
1. Lady Mendl’s Tea Room
Address: 56 Irving Place, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 477-2020
Website: www.ladymendl.com
The charming Lady Mendl’s encapsulates the essence of a traditional tea service. Their cucumber tea sandwiches, made with freshly baked bread and lightly salted butter, are the epitome of refinement. Alongside this staple, expect an innovative smoked salmon rendition adorned with herbed cream cheese that elevates the palate.
2. The Bergdorf Goodman Café
Address: 754 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 753-7300
Website: www.bergdorfgoodman.com
Nestled within the luxurious Bergdorf Goodman, this café serves an exquisite, seasonal selection. Their lobster tea sandwich, presented delicately on brioche with a citrus aioli, is both opulent and surprising. Dine here to enjoy an aesthetic ambiance while indulging in their artisan flavors.
3. Alice’s Tea Cup
Address: 102 West 73rd Street, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (212) 799-0442
Website: www.alicesteacup.com
Alice’s Tea Cup is whimsical and enchanting, echoing the spirit of Lewis Carroll. Their “Happily Ever After” sandwich combines savory chicken salad with cranberries and pecans, nestled between slices of whole-grain bread. The whimsical decor adds to the overall experience, making it a must-visit for families and tea enthusiasts alike.
4. The Rotunda at The St. Regis
Address: 2 East 55th Street at Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 753-4500
Website: www.stregis.com
Regal and sophisticated, The Rotunda offers a classic afternoon tea experience. Their unique tea sandwiches feature chicken and tarragon on a buttery croissant, delighting visitors with each bite. The opulent surroundings and impeccable service guarantee a memorable afternoon.
5. Petrossian Boutique & Café
Address: 182 West 58th Street, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 582-7200
Website: www.petrossian.com
Known for its luxurious caviar and gourmet provisions, Petrossian’s tea sandwiches are equally exquisite. Their foie gras mousse sandwich, artfully disguised beneath layers of delicate bread, exemplifies extravagance. Visiting this establishment is a gastronomic journey filled with sumptuous flavors.
6. Tea & Sympathy
Address: 108 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 929-2020
Website: www.teaandsympathy.com
This cozy spot is a slice of British charm in the heart of Manhattan. Their classic egg salad tea sandwich, crafted with a hint of watercress and seasoned perfectly, showcases the essence of British comfort food. Here, the nostalgia of British tea time is infused into every bite.
7. The Greenwich Hotel – Locanda Verde
Address: 377 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 941-3900
Website: www.thegreenwichhotel.com
Renowned for its farm-to-table ethos, Locanda Verde presents an Italian twist on traditional tea sandwiches. Their prosciutto and fig jam sandwich, paired with creamy ricotta, offers a surprising fusion of flavors that will ignite your taste buds.
8. The Peninsula New York – The Lobby
Address: 700 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 956-2888
Website: www.peninsula.com
The Peninsula’s Lobby provides a luxurious afternoon tea experience, serving exquisite finger sandwiches that include roasted beets with goat cheese. The optimized ambiance and attentive service provide an opulent backdrop for tea lovers seeking tranquility.
9. T2 Tea
Address: 243 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 675-1460
Website: www.t2tea.com
Bringing a vibrant touch to tea culture, T2 Tea specializes in contemporary sandwiches to complement their eclectic tea selections. Their spicy tuna sandwich, coupled with wasabi mayo, marries tradition with a modern twist that excites the palate of adventurous eaters.
10. Café Sabarsky
Address: 1048 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Contact: (212) 288-0665
Website: www.neuegalerie.org
Embodying the spirit of Viennese café culture, Café Sabarsky offers delightful open-faced sandwiches. Their classic smoked trout offers an impeccable balance of flavors, served with a dill and caper garnish. This authentic experience radiates the charm of European patisserie.
In summary, New York City’s tea sandwiches provide a delightful exploration of flavors, textures, and culinary creativity across various neighborhoods. Whether you’re in search of a traditional experience or eager to discover innovative twists, the diverse offerings from these ten establishments will not disappoint. Each bite of their meticulous creations serves not only as a culinary delight but also a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the ambiance and charm that NYC has to offer. So gather your friends or indulge solo, as each of these eateries promises an exquisite adventure through the world of tea sandwiches.
