Afternoon Tea Etiquette & My Favorite Tea Services in NYC
The History
Tea was introduced to Europe from the east in 1570, first advertised in England in 1658, and taxed since 1660, so the story goes. It was not until the very late 1800s when the idea of afternoon tea began, and we can thank Anna Russel for this. Anna was the 7th Duchess of Bedford. When she found herself hungry between lunch and dinner (which was served after 8pm), she would request tea, bread with butter, and cake later in the afternoon. Eventually, Anna would invite her friends to join her. Well, it is safe to say Anna was quite the trend setter as taking time in the afternoon to enjoy tea became a common daily practice in high society in the late 1800s. The afternoon tea services we all enjoy here in the U.S. and many places around the world are definitely more done up and commercialized than what afternoon tea originally looked like, but they are still a special way to slow down, indulge, and celebrate life with the people we love, nonetheless.
Afternoon Tea vs. High Tea
In today’s blog post, I am going to share some of my favorite afternoon tea etiquette tips whether you are hosting a tea or attending a tea, as well as a few places I enjoy visiting for afternoon tea in New York City. Before we jump into that, I want to clear up a common mistake that I see on social media and even at certain venues offering a tea service: calling afternoon tea “high tea” when they are in fact different! Firstly, afternoon tea is typically served around 3-4pm where high tea is served later in the day around 5-7pm. The second point of distinction has to do with the food served. Afternoon tea consists of scones, light finger sandwiches, and dainty pastries where as high tea includes a true meal with foods such as meat, vegetables, pasta or potatoes.
Afternoon Tea Etiquette Tips
While it is more customary to be served or serve lose leaf tea, if. you are served a tea bag, ensure the tea bag is removed from the pot or teacup before enjoying it.
Tea is most commonly served with cold milk (not cream), lemon, sugar, or other artificial sweetener. It is most appropriate to add the accompaniments after the tea has been poured.
Hosts should pour their guests tea and allow their guests to add their own accompaniments. Don’t forget to serve your guests first!
When pouring tea from a tea pot, hold the handle with your dominant hand, and place your pointer and middle finger from other hand on the finial.
Teacups should be held by pinching the handle with your pointer finger and thumb, and resting your middle finger for support.
We do not stir our tea in a circular motion creating a whirlpool, but rather in a 12 o'clock-6 o’clock motion.
Be sure to look into your teacup when taking a sip.
Saucers stay glued to the table as long as you are seated at the table. If you are taking tea with you around a room, or you are seated very far from a low-set table, you may hold both the saucer and the teacup together.
We do not put our pinkies up contrary to popular belief! The history of this is that people put their pinkies up to signify that they were of a certain class. This snobbery is pretty much the opposite of what modern etiquette stands for!
When navigating the three-tier tray, the correct order of serving and enjoying is savory to sweet: sandwiches, scones, and sweets. Remember to put everything on your plate first before enjoying.
Dress to impress! Although there is no required dress code for afternoon tea, the venue serving the tea may suggest or require a dress code.
My Favorite Places for Afternoon Tea in NYC
The Plaza ($$): My top choice for quality, ambiance, price, and overall experience. Simply my favorite! Plus, it doesn’t get more iconic than here. I highly recommend going during the holiday season!
The Carlyle ($$$): A truly beautiful experience in another NYC landmark, but it is a bit pricey for what is provided during the service.
Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon ($$): Another one of my top picks for the value of this tea experience. This is a traditional tea house with a whimsical ambiance. Their tea sandwiches are some of my favorites.
The Baccarat ($$$): Certainly a splurge, but you won’t find caviar and lobster tea sandwiches at many other places.
Bergdorf Goodman($$): Beautiful views of Central Park, and a lovely way to break up your shopping day. It is not necessarily a destination for afternoon tea, but I would not pass it up if I was there! The Plaza is right across the street, so I would probably recommend going there instead if you had the option.
Tea and Sympathy ($): A more casual atmosphere with a nod to English tradition. They also have a full brunch menu. It is tiny inside, but you will feel like you were transported to England!
The Blue Box Cafe ($$): Tea at Tiffany’s will surely be something you remember forever. Chef Daniel Boulud and his team created a magnificent menu for you to enjoy. This one requires a reservation well in advance!
The King’s Carriage House ($): A great choice if you are looking to enjoy traditional afternoon tea in a cozy atmosphere, on a budget.
