When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Palm Court
Why The Palm Court is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel in New York City offers a distinguished and elegant setting perfect for meeting up with friends or enjoying special occasions. Recently renovated by Master Architect Thierry Despont, the venue blends classic American fare with a warm, garden-inspired ambiance that features soaring palm trees, large potted plants, and bespoke furnishings. Whether for a professional breakfast meeting, an afternoon tea, or a relaxed evening of cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, The Palm Court provides a unique social atmosphere. Its stained glass dome, impressive height, and signature oval trellised bar contribute to the grandeur and old New York charm, complemented by a polished modern hospitality standard. The menu is known for its classic yet innovative offerings, and Afternoon Tea stands out with custom tableware and a deep, worldly tea list. The Palm Court can accommodate groups from an intimate 20 guests up to 100 seated and offers options for semi-private or full buy-out events, making it ideal for celebrations or gatherings in a refined yet inviting environment.
Here's what people think of The Palm Court
As of recent, The Palm Court holds a 4-star rating based on 1038 reviews.
Reviews of The Palm Court highlight a mix of experiences that reflect the venue's iconic status. Many guests appreciate the excellent service and the grand, elegant setting that delivers a classic New York experience. Positive feedback often mentions the warmth of the ambiance, the attention to detail during special occasions, and the quality of cocktails and tea service. The venue is considered a go-to for celebrations like milestone birthdays despite its premium pricing. However, some reviews express disappointment with aspects of the food quality, notably mentioning that some offerings—particularly sandwiches in the vegetarian afternoon tea—were not always fresh or accompanied by sufficient explanations. A few guests noted minor service inconsistencies, such as rushed delivery of food without thorough presentation or description. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment suggests that the exceptional atmosphere, noteworthy design, and attentive service make The Palm Court a memorable place to visit. The reviews indicate that, while there may be room for improvement in food execution, the venue's historic charm combined with a modern touch continues to attract visitors seeking an iconic and glamorous New York experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rand .Valverde
If you’re drawn to landmark spaces steeped in timeless elegance, The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel is an experience not to be missed. Set beneath a soaring stained-glass dome and surrounded by opulent architectural details, the ambiance is truly breathtaking—a graceful nod to New York’s Gilded Age charm. The food rises to the occasion, with brunch offerings that are as refined as the setting—thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and undeniably delicious. Service is attentive and polished, in keeping with the venue’s stature. The Palm Court delivers a blend of grandeur and hospitality that feels both rare and memorable. A true New York City must-try, especially for those who appreciate history served with a touch of luxury.
Angela Cooperman-Galper
NYC icon. The Palm Court in The Plaza is as delightful as you might imagine based on pictures. It’s lovely. Flowery. Beautiful. Romantic. We stopped for a cocktail before dinner elsewhere and it was truly a pleasure. Surrounded by opulent floral arrangements, luxury, ornate decorative interiors, and soft lighting, The Palm Court will be a memorable experience.
Zara Baghikyan
Had breakfast here and felt like a queen! The interior is straight-up royal — elegant, luxurious, and just stunning. The food? Amazing. The service? Flawless. The ambiance? Pure perfection. And yes… the prices are royal too 👑😂 But totally worth it for the experience. A must-try if you’re in New York and want to treat yourself!
Joella r
Hands down best teatime ever. Our waiter was so nice friendly and helpful. Hostes were friendly and and accommodating. Every little bites was so delicious and delightful. We pick all different teas , champagne extra but worth it. Our kid was so exited to pick his own tea. And for little kids they have Elouise teatime. And at the end my husband got father’s day gift.
Susan McGowan
We had a lovely time having a early evening drink and bite. A little dish of olives and nuts were placed after we ordered, delightfully seasoned. The drinks were delicious and very high in alcohol. The sesame dessert was good but not amazing.
How to reach The Palm Court
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Why The Palm Court may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Palm Court with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at The Palm Court is an experience that combines elegance, ambiance, and memorable moments in a setting designed to impress and relax all at once. Whether you seek a lively night out or a sophisticated retreat, The Palm Court provides an inviting environment that enriches any get-together. Its beautifully renovated space effortlessly blends timeless charm with modern sophistication, making it not just a restaurant but a destination where conversations flow as freely as the expertly crafted cocktails and the classic American fare delights the palate. The Palm Court’s atmosphere exudes warmth and glamour—making every meetup special, from casual drinks to milestone celebrations. The extensive space accommodates both intimate groups and larger gatherings, ensuring that no matter the size of your party, everyone can enjoy a comfortably elegant and private setting. Hosting a rendezvous here means immersing your group in an iconic venue celebrated for its interior grandeur and excellent hospitality, promising memories wrapped in style and good cheer.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at The Palm Court?
The Palm Court caters to a range of social and culinary activities, making it the perfect venue for groups who want more than just a meal. Start your gathering with breakfast or brunch in their sunken dining room, a setting designed to spark lively conversation and offer a hearty start to the day. For those who prefer a midday escape, the Palm Court’s lunch options blend classic tastes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Afternoon Tea is one of the gems here—renowned for its custom tableware and extensive tea list, it offers a refined yet relaxed experience that elevates the traditional teatime to a gourmet affair. The venue also boasts a piano lounge, where live music softly enhances the ambiance and invites guests to unwind and soak in the atmosphere. As the day moves into evening, their mixologists take center stage, crafting cocktails that revive classic recipes while exploring inventive modern twists, perfect for groups seeking an elegant night out. Together, these diverse offerings ensure every group activity at The Palm Court—from casual brunches to cocktail parties—is both vibrant and memorable.
Why is The Palm Court an ideal place for group meetups?
The Palm Court’s thoughtfully designed layout and hospitality elevate it as an ideal meeting spot for groups of all sizes. With seating capacity ranging from intimate groups of 20 to larger gatherings of up to 70 guests seated, and even up to 350 standing for full buy-outs, the venue offers flexibility unmatched by many city hotspots. The space strikes a balance between grandeur and coziness, featuring private and semi-private areas that allow friends and family to enjoy each other’s company without distractions, making conversations and celebrations more enjoyable. The attentive service staff are experienced in managing group dynamics, ensuring that everyone is well taken care of throughout the event, whether it’s a casual drinks night or a more formal celebration. Furthermore, the gorgeous interior — with its soaring stained glass dome, towering palm trees, and garden-inspired décor — provides an exquisite backdrop for photos and social media moments, adding an extra layer of delight to any meetup. This combination of capacity, ambiance, and service makes The Palm Court a premier choice for hosting group occasions in style.
What dining options does The Palm Court offer for groups?
The dining experience at The Palm Court is tailored to accommodate diverse tastes and dietary preferences, making it a versatile destination for groups. Their menu focuses on classic American cuisine served from morning through evening, ensuring that meals can be enjoyed at any time of the day in a setting that feels both polished and welcoming. Groups can savor a broad spectrum of options, from light bites perfect for sharing along with cocktails to more substantial dishes for those desiring a full meal. The afternoon tea service, in particular, stands out for its meticulous presentation and world-class tea selection, ideal for groups seeking a leisurely and indulgent social experience. The kitchen staff takes care to maintain quality and freshness, with accommodations available for dietary restrictions such as vegetarian options. This inclusive menu approach guarantees that all members of a group can find something suited to their preferences, helping to enhance their overall experience at the venue.
How does The Palm Court’s ambiance contribute to a memorable meetup?
Ambiance is central to The Palm Court’s appeal, making it much more than just a restaurant or bar. Its design, completed by a master architect, creates an environment that fuses the grand feeling of a garden with the sophistication of an upscale urban lounge. The sight of towering palm trees, lush potted plants, and the stunning stained glass dome overhead immerse guests in a setting that feels at once luxurious and welcoming. This kind of atmosphere naturally encourages relaxation and connection among groups, whether they are engaging in lively conversation or simply enjoying the live piano music softly playing in the background. The oval trellised bar anchored at the room’s center acts as a social hub where groups can gather comfortably, fostering togetherness. The Palm Court’s ambiance strikes the perfect note between old New York charm and modern hospitality, making every visit feel like a special occasion that friends and family cherish.
What makes the service at The Palm Court suitable for groups?
The Palm Court is praised for its attentive and friendly service, which is especially important when hosting groups. The welcoming staff are trained to provide personalized attention, recognizing special occasions and ensuring that each guest feels valued and accommodated. Whether it’s coordinating special requests like vegetarian menus or managing drink orders for a large party, the staff’s expertise keeps the experience smooth and enjoyable. Guests often note that hosts greet them warmly and take the time to explain menu items or manage dietary preferences with care, lending a thoughtful touch that enhances comfort and satisfaction. The balance between professionalism and warmth from the service team ensures that groups never feel rushed or neglected, fostering a relaxed atmosphere where conversations can flow freely. This outstanding service reputation is part of what consistently draws groups back to The Palm Court.
Is The Palm Court suitable for private events and celebrations?
Absolutely. The Palm Court is highly adaptable for private events, making it a sought-after venue for everything from birthday celebrations to business gatherings and wedding receptions. Its capacity to accommodate up to 100 seated guests and 350 standing for a full buy-out means it can host both intimate and large-scale events with equal grace. The venue offers semi-private spaces as well, perfect for smaller meetups that still require a degree of exclusivity. Its elegant décor and unique architectural features provide a stunning backdrop for photographs and special moments, elevating any event’s prestige. The Palm Court’s event team offers professional support to customize menus, beverages, and room setups, tailoring the experience to exactly what the host and guests need. This flexibility, coupled with the venue’s inherent charm and superior hospitality, makes The Palm Court an exceptional choice for private group occasions.
Why do locals and visitors alike recommend The Palm Court for social gatherings?
The Palm Court attracts both locals and visitors as a favored spot for social gatherings because of its blend of tradition and contemporary appeal. Long-standing patrons appreciate the venue’s consistent delivery of quality food, drink, and atmosphere, while newcomers often come drawn by its reputation as an iconic New York City (or Arlington Heights, depending on location) landmark. Its multifaceted offerings—from live music and piano lounge to exquisite afternoon tea and innovative cocktails—provide something for everyone, regardless of their social preferences. Those who seek a refined environment where they can celebrate milestones, enjoy leisurely meals, or simply reconnect with friends find The Palm Court a welcoming haven. The venue’s dedication to creating memorable experiences through ambiance, service, and culinary excellence continually earns it positive reviews and high ratings, making it a trusted name for those planning gatherings. This broad appeal ensures that whether you’re hosting friends or family, The Palm Court remains a top recommendation for an unforgettable meetup.
How can you best plan a group visit to The Palm Court?
To make the most of a group visit to The Palm Court, advance planning is key. Given the popularity of the venue and its capacity constraints, reservations are highly recommended—especially for larger parties or special occasions. The Palm Court provides options for booking semi-private areas or even full buy-outs depending on your group size and event goals, so contacting the events team ahead of time can secure a space tailored to your needs. It’s also wise to communicate any dietary restrictions or special requests in advance to ensure the kitchen is prepared. For groups interested in afternoon tea or cocktail experiences, checking the available menu selections and possibly customizing them with the help of staff can enhance enjoyment. Arriving a little early allows everyone in the party to settle in and soak up the unique ambiance. With thoughtful coordination, a gathering at The Palm Court can run smoothly and leave guests with lasting fond memories.
What sets The Palm Court apart from other dining and meetup venues?
The Palm Court distinguishes itself with its unique combination of iconic design, versatile group accommodations, and exceptional service. Unlike many venues, it offers a historic yet updated interior that artfully brings the outdoors indoors through its garden-themed décor and soaring ceilings, creating a rare sense of spaciousness and intimacy simultaneously. The flexibility to host everything from elegant afternoon teas to lively cocktail parties in spaces that can be adjusted to fit the size and tone of your group adds considerable value. Meanwhile, the expert mixologists and kitchen staff maintain a high standard of culinary craft that enhances the overall guest experience beyond what you might expect at typical restaurants or bars. Additionally, its reputation as a prestigious and well-loved venue means that hosting an event or meetup here adds a touch of distinction and glamour, making guests feel that they are part of something special. This holistic approach—melding atmosphere, quality, and service—makes The Palm Court a standout choice for gatherings.
What can groups expect in terms of amenities and extras at The Palm Court?
Groups visiting The Palm Court can anticipate a host of amenities designed to enhance comfort and convenience. The expansive layout includes a piano lounge and a cozy fireplace area, providing spaces within the venue that cater to different group moods, whether guests want to relax near the fire or enjoy live music. The bar’s oval trellised design serves as a social nexus, while the overall décor includes large potted plants and palm trees that contribute to a lush, vibrant backdrop. Additionally, the venue often features live music entertainment, which adds to the lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. For private or semi-private events, options like custom menus, dedicated service staff, and flexible seating arrangements can be arranged to suit specific needs. Furthermore, the staff’s readiness to celebrate special occasions with personalized touches ensures that meetups feel uniquely tailored and memorable. Combined, these thoughtful details create a seamless and enjoyable group experience beyond just dining.
In summary, The Palm Court rises as an exceptional destination for friends and family to rally together thanks to its elegant setting, diverse activity offerings, capacity for groups large and small, and a commitment to superior hospitality. This venue excels in transforming ordinary get-togethers into occasions marked by warmth, style, and lasting memories.