When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Alice's Tea Cup
Why Alice's Tea Cup is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Alice's Tea Cup, established in 2001 by sisters Haley and Lauren Fox, is a beloved and whimsical tea house in New York City known for delivering a magical dining experience. With over two decades of history, it offers more than just tea—it is a charming spot to socialize with friends, celebrate special occasions like birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, or enjoy a relaxed brunch together. Located primarily on the Upper West Side (Chapter 1), with additional locations on the Upper East Side (Chapter 2) and Brooklyn Heights (takeout), it is renowned for an extensive collection of carefully brewed teas sourced globally, freshly made to order foods including scones and tea sandwiches, and playful, fairy-tale inspired decor that evokes a sense of wonder. This themed ambiance combined with their health-conscious menu options—featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free offerings—makes it an inviting destination for diverse groups. Guests often appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere paired with unique menu choices, making it a memorable spot to meet up and enjoy quality time. Celebrities such as Conan O’Brien, Julia Roberts, and Amy Schumer have been known to visit, adding to its charm and reputation as a New York institution.
Here's what people think of Alice's Tea Cup
As of recent, Alice's Tea Cup holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1735 reviews.
From thousands of reviews, Alice's Tea Cup enjoys a solid 4.3-star rating, reflecting general customer satisfaction with some variability in experience. Many patrons praise the extensive tea selection and the overall whimsical atmosphere that sets the venue apart as a delightful escape from everyday dining. Positive comments frequently highlight the high quality of scones and fresh menu items, as well as the friendly and knowledgeable staff who contribute to the welcoming vibe. The tea brewing process, incorporating double-filtered water heated perfectly, also receives commendations for enhancing the experience. Additionally, the tea house is seen as ideal for special events and casual brunches, with a varied menu that caters to different dietary preferences including gluten-free and vegan options, though some customers express a desire for further enhancements in this area. On the downside, some reviews note inconsistencies such as slow service during quieter periods and the need to refresh the decor in certain locations, suggesting that maintenance and customer service could be improved. A few patrons have expressed disappointment with the baked goods, particularly the scones, indicating that quality may have fluctuated over time. Despite financial challenges the business faced recently, including a significant debt that threatened closure, new ownership has kept all locations open, signaling a commitment to revitalizing the brand. Overall, reviews portray Alice's Tea Cup as a treasured New York City institution with charming ambiance and quality offerings that make it a recommended destination, especially for those seeking an enchanting tea experience with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rita White
While I loved the atmosphere and the scones were very good We also got cake, the banana bread cake was very stodgy and I didn’t eat it. We did mention it to the waitress and she didn’t offer any suggestions. She did take 1 dollar off the bill! We were there at 11 am when they opened but the brunch menu was not available. We asked were there any eggs available? She replied no, just the scones and the lunch menu which had limited items. Overall. It was ok but I’m in no rush back.
Luna Urquizu
✨Great Experience, good time, big selection of tea and delicious food. The place is quite cozy, inspired by the decor and colors of Alice in Wonderland. Get ready to truly enjoy a great selection of delicious teas, a great staff willing to chat and give suggestions. They have a special tea menu with more than 30 combinations that will make you want to try more than one pot, without forgetting the delicious fluffy and moist scones that come with some accompaniments like butter, jelly, and whipped cream (you must try the berry scones). But if you're ready for something more than tea and dessert, they have a very good variety of sandwiches, burritos, salads and soup. This place offers a great time with good deals, like a pot of tea with scones for just $18, or the brunch around $35, plus the specialty teas that change according to the seasons.
Krystal Perez
The tea selection was delicious so many options to choose from. The food options weren't my favorite. Thw curry chicken sandwich was probably the most tasty. The pastries weren't too sweet. I would return just for the tea. You are able to buy the teas by the oz if you wish to go which was a bonus. Service was good. Just wish I enjoyed the food a little more.
Michael Leake
Stopped in for a cupboard tea and some scones. Fun atmosphere, friendly staff and delicious mid-afternoon snack after strilling in Central Park. Conner was welcoming and attentive. It was nice to see some kids wearing the butterfly wings you can purchase up front.
Dungeon Master
A place I've seen often enough, but only recently visited on a Tuesday morning. Nice decor theme, and the food was enjoyable. The only issue I had was the lack of English Breakfast Tea, and the following two choices I made were also out of stock. Other than that, the place is certainly worth a visit. Expect to spend almost $100 for a three-tiered setting with two pots of tea. Well worth the price.
How to reach Alice's Tea Cup
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Why Alice's Tea Cup may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Alice's Tea Cup with your friends? Alice's Tea Cup offers a unique blend of charm, comfort, and culinary delight that makes it an exceptional destination for social gatherings. With a strong rating of 4.3 from over 1,700 reviews, this beloved New York City tea house has crafted an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing, celebrating, or simply enjoying quality time. The venues, inspired by "Alice in Wonderland," immerse guests in a whimsical, cozy environment where tea and conversation flow freely. Whether you're planning an intimate afternoon tea or a lively group meetup, Alice’s Tea Cup invites you into a world of flavorful teas, freshly baked goodies, and creative menus that cater to varied tastes and dietary needs. Its multiple locations, including spacious and well-appointed sitting areas, ensure groups of all sizes feel welcome. The attentive, friendly service adds a layer of warmth, making every visit memorable. Thus, it’s not just about sipping tea but about creating shared experiences that linger in memory, making it a perfect rally point for friends and family looking to connect in a charming setting.
What activities can you enjoy at Alice's Tea Cup? Alice's Tea Cup is not just a place to drink tea—it offers a comprehensive experience centered on culinary craftsmanship and social enjoyment. First, the core activity is the traditional tea service featuring a wide selection of teas brewed to perfection, often complemented by delightful scones served with clotted cream and preserves. The menu goes beyond classic tea, embracing modern tastes with tea-infused cocktails and savory sandwiches, including popular options like curried and tarragon chicken. For gatherings, Alice's Tea Cup caters with specially designed group menus such as the "Tea for Two" or the extravagantly named "The Madhatter," which combines a variety of teas, scones, sandwiches, and desserts. This variety ensures that every guest can find something to enjoy, making it ideal for groups with diverse preferences. Additionally, the original and larger Chapter I location offers the opportunity to shop Alice-themed merchandise, adding a fun and whimsical retail experience to your outing. Friendly, knowledgeable staff enhance the experience by providing personalized recommendations and ensuring seamless service, making each visit enjoyable regardless of group size.
Why is Alice's Tea Cup the perfect place for a group meetup? Alice’s Tea Cup shines as an exceptional venue for group meetups thanks to its thoughtful design, welcoming atmosphere, and accommodating service. The Chapter II location on East 64th Street boasts ample space for private events, allowing groups to gather comfortably without feeling cramped. The intimate yet spacious surroundings give friends and families ample room to chat, relax, and linger over their tea service. Moreover, the variety in seating arrangements—from cozy nooks to larger group tables—means it can adapt to different group sizes and dynamics. The combination of high-quality food and drink, including freshly baked pastries, innovative tea cocktails, and classic offerings, means there’s something to please everyone’s palate, which is often a critical aspect of successful group outings. The staff's attentiveness ensures that group needs are met efficiently, while the whimsical Alice in Wonderland theme adds a layer of playful charm that encourages fun, memorable interactions. Proximity to popular New York City sites like Central Park also makes it convenient for groups to combine their tea time with other social or leisure activities, enhancing the overall experience.
How can the menu at Alice's Tea Cup enhance your social gathering? The menu at Alice's Tea Cup is thoughtfully crafted to elevate any social gathering. It champions traditional tea culture while incorporating casual elegance and creative flair, making it appealing to both tea aficionados and casual visitors. Core menu items include expertly brewed teas served in charming three-cup pots, paired with freshly baked scones topped with clotted cream and seasonal preserves—a quintessential tea time experience. For groups, the "Tea for Two" or larger options like "Tea for Three" provide a ready-made, balanced selection of teas, scones, sandwiches, and decadent desserts such as chocolate mousse and mini cookies. The sandwiches, noted for quality bread and flavorful fillings including curried chicken, provide savory balance to the sweet offerings. Additionally, Alice’s Tea Cup offers vegan options and tea cocktails, catering to a range of dietary preferences and interests, making the menu inclusive and versatile. This thoughtful diversity in food and drink encourages sharing and sampling, enhancing the communal feel of any gathering while ensuring that each guest finds something delicious to enjoy.
What makes the atmosphere at Alice's Tea Cup conducive to memorable meetups? The atmosphere at Alice's Tea Cup is carefully designed to blend whimsy with comfort, making it ideal for warm, memorable gatherings. Inspired by the magical world of Alice in Wonderland, the décor features charming details that evoke a sense of playful escapism, inviting guests to step out of the everyday and into a cozy, storybook setting. This ambiance encourages relaxed conversation and shared laughter, providing a perfect backdrop for bonding with friends or family. The lighting and seating arrangements are designed to cater to both intimate chats and larger group celebrations, ensuring personal space alongside communal warmth. Guest reviews highlight the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, whose welcoming demeanor makes visitors feel special and well cared for. This unique combination of thematic enchantment, comfortable surroundings, and personable service creates an environment where social interactions thrive, making every meetup at Alice’s Tea Cup not just an outing, but a treasured event.
How accessible are the Alice's Tea Cup locations for group gatherings? Alice’s Tea Cup offers multiple accessible locations throughout New York City, enhancing its appeal for group meetups by providing convenience and variety. The original location at 102 West 73rd Street on the Upper West Side is easily reachable via multiple subway lines (1, 2, 3, B, C), and it offers the largest dining area along with an in-house store featuring Alice-themed merchandise. The Chapter II venue on the Upper East Side (156 East 64th Street) is similarly well-connected by public transit (6, N, Q, R, F trains) and is notable for its ample seating and capacity for private events, providing more flexibility for larger parties. For those seeking a quicker or more casual experience, Alice’s To Go in Brooklyn offers fresh pastries and coffee with a fast-service format, ideal for casual meetups on the move. These multiple options ensure groups can pick a location best suited to their neighborhood, group size, and event style, making Alice’s Tea Cup remarkably convenient and versatile for various social occasions.
What customer experiences highlight why Alice’s Tea Cup is beloved? Customer reviews frequently praise Alice’s Tea Cup for consistent quality, warm service, and delightful atmosphere—key reasons why it remains a favored spot for gatherings. Many reviewers mention the exceptional friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, who make guests feel both welcomed and valued, crucial for creating a relaxed and enjoyable group experience. The food receives positive notes particularly for its fresh and flavorful scones, thoughtfully curated sandwiches, and the quality of the teas served. Some visitors celebrate annual traditions of visiting the tea house for special occasions, reflecting the lasting impression it leaves. While a few reviews note that food quality might be surpassed elsewhere, the overall consensus values the unique blend of ambiance, service, and menu that supports lingering and connection. This combination positions Alice’s Tea Cup as not only a restaurant but a cherished space for forging meaningful social memories.
What can you expect when booking an event or a private gathering at Alice’s Tea Cup? Alice’s Tea Cup accommodates private events and larger groups, especially at its Chapter II location, which offers ample space and specialized event hosting options. Guests looking to book a gathering can expect a warm, dedicated service experience, with staff tailoring arrangements to group size and preferences. The venue’s whimsical décor provides a festive and inviting environment for celebrations ranging from birthday parties to casual reunions. The diverse menu can be adapted into set packages such as themed high teas or cocktail-infused tea experiences, simplifying planning while ensuring a memorable culinary journey. Reservations can be made easily through their website, with options to specify guest counts and preferences, enabling smooth coordination. This level of detail and flexibility makes Alice’s Tea Cup a reliable and enchanting choice for event planners and social organizers aiming to impress their guests.
How does Alice’s Tea Cup blend tradition with modern trends in tea culture? Alice’s Tea Cup skillfully blends the timeless rituals of afternoon tea with contemporary tastes and trends, creating a dynamic outing for modern groups. The traditional scones, cream, and pot-brewed teas honor the classic tea experience cherished worldwide. Yet, the menu innovates by introducing tea-infused cocktails and adventurous sandwich fillings, appealing to a broad and diverse customer base. This fusion respects tea’s heritage while ensuring relevance in a fast-evolving culinary landscape. The décor and branding further complement this balance, nodding to nostalgic storytelling while integrating comfortable, current design aesthetics. For groups, this means a sophisticated yet approachable venue where multiple generations or tastes can come together and enjoy something uniquely fresh yet warmly familiar, facilitating shared cultural experiences through tea. This thoughtful synthesis is a key factor in Alice’s Tea Cup's ongoing popularity and appeal.
What additional experiences make Alice’s Tea Cup stand out for meetups? Beyond tea and food, Alice’s Tea Cup offers additional touches that enhance the social experience, making meetups even more enjoyable. For instance, the original location features an Alice-themed retail shop, allowing groups to browse and purchase whimsical souvenirs that extend the fun beyond the table. Seasonal and holiday-themed offerings, such as pumpkin caramel scones or special dessert treats, bring a festive feel that invigorates regular visits with fresh excitement. The venue’s community vibe and reputation as a “go-to” spot for tea lovers and casual socializers alike mean you often find friendly conversations blending with your own group’s enjoyment. Moreover, the thoughtful layout and friendly staff create an inclusive environment where different ages and interests are embraced, from kids to tea aficionados. These extras, combined with the core offerings, make Alice’s Tea Cup not just a place to eat, but a vibrant social hub for memorable gatherings.
Why should you make a reservation for your group at Alice’s Tea Cup? Making a reservation at Alice’s Tea Cup ensures that your group can enjoy the best possible experience without the stress of waiting or uncertainty. Given its popularity and limited seating during peak times, booking ahead secures your preferred time slot, table size, and seating preferences. It allows the staff to prepare for your arrival, potentially setting up special menu arrangements or accommodating dietary needs ahead of time. The reservation system accommodates groups of various sizes, from intimate pairs to larger parties, providing flexibility and peace of mind. This foresight contributes to a smooth, relaxed visit where your focus can remain on conversation and enjoyment rather than logistics. For meetups that celebrate special occasions or reunions, reservations also ensure your group feels prioritized and valued, reinforcing the high-quality experience that defines Alice’s Tea Cup.