When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Russian Tea Room
Why The Russian Tea Room is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Russian Tea Room, located in the heart of Manhattan on West 57th Street, is a storied establishment that has been a cultural icon since its founding in 1927 by members of the Russian Imperial Ballet. Originally a quaint café and chocolate shop serving Russian artists, especially ballet dancers, it evolved into a renowned restaurant favored by celebrities, artists, and intellectuals. What makes The Russian Tea Room a great place to meet up with friends is its blend of rich history, exquisite art-deco décor, and a welcoming atmosphere that balances tradition with contemporary hospitality. The venue is known for its sophisticated afternoon tea service, featuring a generous and impressive menu that leaves guests delighted, and an exceptional selection of vodkas. Its intimate and elegant setting, combined with the historical charm and cultural significance, makes it ideal for celebrations, casual gatherings, or a luxurious dining experience. The Russian Tea Room also stands out as a vibrant cultural hotspot, having hosted luminaries from the worlds of entertainment, fashion, and politics over the decades. Meeting friends here offers an opportunity to enjoy a unique slice of New York City history amid a refined ambiance that is both inviting and memorable.
Here's what people think of The Russian Tea Room
As of recent, The Russian Tea Room holds a 3.9-star rating based on 1749 reviews.
Reviews from patrons of The Russian Tea Room are a mixed but insightful reflection of the experience it offers. Many positive reviews highlight the exceptional quality and generosity of the afternoon tea service, praising the impressive menu and the beautiful, richly decorated interior that creates a captivating ambiance. Reviewers also appreciate the professionalism and efficiency of the staff, along with the relaxed yet elegant dress code that allows guests to feel comfortable while enjoying a distinguished venue. These attributes contribute to an atmosphere that balances sophistication with warmth, making it a favored spot for memorable social occasions. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on disappointment with service inconsistencies, pricing, or personal expectations that were not fully met. A few visitors expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of their experience, cautioning others to consider these elements before visiting. Overall, while The Russian Tea Room maintains its reputation as an iconic and culturally rich destination, the reviews suggest that experiences may vary somewhat. The positive feedback regarding its ambience, menu, and history tends to outweigh the criticisms, supporting its status as a notable meeting place in New York City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kristian Ivanov
We had a really nice experience at The Russian Tea Room. The atmosphere feels like old-school NYC power broker meets imperial Russia — dramatic, nostalgic, and totally unique. The food was excellent, the drinks were high quality and a bit pricey, but the service was top-notch. The staff were warm and professional, which really made the brunch feel special. If you’re looking for a spot that captures a bit of vintage New York glamour with great hospitality, this is it. We’ll absolutely be back.
Meika Goode
This was my first time in the Russian Tea Room but it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed my meal in the famous NYC establishment. The atmosphere is distinctly European which is a breath of fresh air in New York. The food was to die for the RTR Burger has 2 types of beef wagyu and short rib with caramelized onions and Brie cheese that just melts in your mouth. Next we enjoyed the Boef à l Staganoff that comes with a perfectly cooked short ribs of beef with black truffles and noodles that was just the chefs kiss. It is so good. For dessert we had a chocolate mousse that was so creamy and delicious and a Tea Room Blintzes with vanilla ice cream. One Blintzes had cheese and the other one had cheese. They both go perfectly with the vanilla ice cream. The staff was extremely friendly and knowledgeable about the food and also wanted to make our time there enjoyable which they did. I had to have the Russian 75 and I paired it with of course jewel of Russian vodka. Wish was strong just the way I like it.
Анастасия
I came with a coupon from Groupon (Three-Course Pre-Theater Dinner for Two ($110 value)) and had some problems with the administrator, he tried to convince me that I needed two coupons for two, despite the fact that the coupon itself says "for two". Common sense won and we got what we wanted. Our waiter was wonderful, as were the dishes we ate. We were delighted with all the food we tried - borscht and a blinchik with goat cheese, vareniki and especially boeuf à la Stroganoff - I have never eaten such delicious beef! The cheesecake was good, but the medovik was too math dry and I do not recommend it. The Anastasia tea was excellent and I was happy to drink tea from a teapot (rather than tea bags), which is rare in New York City. Overall I had a wonderful experience and will be back again.
G. R.
Not sure about all the negative reviews.. we really enjoyed our beef and mushroom stroganoffs. The selection of art is very impressive and the decor in general is unique and beautiful. There was nothing wrong with our service. Didn't have to wait long. Very attentive with refills, etc.
Matthieu Giraud
I read some negative experience from some people. On my side I came without a reservation and was able to seat at the bar without any problem. I took a signature Moscow mule and it was the best I ever had! Then I took a Khinkali and a boeuf à la stroganoff. Both were really good. Of course the place is not cheap, but it is not a surprise either. The atmosphere is really nice, incredible decoration.
How to reach The Russian Tea Room
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Why The Russian Tea Room may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Russian Tea Room with your friends?
Gathering at The Russian Tea Room offers an experience that blends rich cultural heritage, exquisite ambiance, and culinary delight, making it an unmatched venue for you and your friends. This iconic New York City establishment, founded in 1927 by members of the Russian Imperial Ballet, carries a storied legacy as a gathering place for artists, intellectuals, and celebrities. From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in its elegant art-deco décor, evoking a timeless charm that transports you to a world of refined indulgence. Sharing a meal or tea here is much more than dining; it’s an immersion in history and culture that sparks conversation and connection among companions. Whether you're meeting after a show near Lincoln Center or just searching for a uniquely sophisticated spot to catch up, The Russian Tea Room offers a dramatic yet cozy setting that encourages conviviality and memorable moments. With a 3.9 rating based on nearly 1,750 reviews, it’s clear that many have treasured the sense of occasion and camaraderie it inspires. This makes it an excellent choice to rally your friends for an outing filled with warmth, elegance, and a touch of artistic flair.
What activities does The Russian Tea Room offer for groups?
The Russian Tea Room provides several activities perfectly suited for group meetups, ensuring that your gathering is lively, engaging, and special. The centerpiece offering is their sophisticated afternoon tea service, which presents a luxurious way to spend quality time together. Guests can indulge in classic tea selections accompanied by a variety of tea sandwiches, pastries, and scones. This experience is ideal for casual yet refined conversations, suitable for celebrations or catching up with family and friends. They cater to various dietary preferences as well, offering vegetarian, gluten-free, and children's menus, which means everyone in your group can participate comfortably. Beyond tea, the restaurant serves a diverse menu of Russian-inspired cuisine including borscht, caviar, and hearty entrees, providing a rich communal dining experience. This combination of cuisine and seating arrangements encourages sharing plates and stories, fostering a sense of community. Additionally, The Russian Tea Room’s extensive vodka selection adds a spirited dimension for those who appreciate premium spirits, making it a venue that can satisfy a range of tastes and preferences in a festive atmosphere.
Why is The Russian Tea Room a perfect place for a group meetup?
The Russian Tea Room’s charm and functionality as a group meetup venue rest in its ability to balance intimacy with grandeur. The restaurant’s historical significance and artistic décor offer an extraordinary backdrop that elevates even routine get-togethers into memorable events. Its location in Midtown Manhattan makes it convenient for groups coming from various parts of the city, especially those attending performances at nearby Lincoln Center or Carnegie Hall, emphasizing its reputation as a cultural hub. The spacious interior accommodates both small groups and larger parties comfortably, with private event options available for celebrations like birthdays, corporate parties, or family milestones. The venue’s commitment to exceptional service means your group can relax and enjoy attentive hospitality without distractions. Moreover, the atmosphere fosters conversation through a lively yet elegant setting, making it suitable for both formal and informal occasions. The combination of historical resonance, culinary variety, atmospheric design, and attentive service collectively creates a welcoming environment where group members feel valued and connected.
What kind of dining experience can we expect at The Russian Tea Room?
Dining at The Russian Tea Room is a journey into the heart of continental fine dining with a distinct Russian flair. The menu cleverly balances traditional Russian dishes with continental influences, offering an extensive variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts to satisfy diverse palates. Popular dishes often include classics like borscht, beef stroganoff, and blinis topped with caviar, all prepared with a focus on authenticity and quality ingredients. The presentation is as polished as the surroundings, emphasizing a fine dining standard that encourages savoring each bite. For tea service, the carefully curated selection of premium loose-leaf teas is complemented by intricate pastries and finger sandwiches, making it a sophisticated choice for day gatherings. Coupled with the availability of an impressive vodka selection and carefully crafted cocktails, meals here become not merely about sustenance but an immersive cultural experience. For groups, the menu’s diversity supports shared plates and tasting opportunities, which enhances interaction and sharing among diners, making the experience communal and engaging.
How does the atmosphere add to the meetup experience at The Russian Tea Room?
The atmosphere at The Russian Tea Room is one of its most compelling draws for groups seeking an extraordinary meetup location. The interior is richly decorated with art-deco elegance, featuring intricate woodwork, plush upholstery, and distinctive Russian artistry that creates a luxurious yet welcoming environment. This aesthetic richness invites guests to step away from everyday routines and enter a world where every detail invites admiration and discussion. The lighting and acoustics are carefully curated to maintain a balance between lively conversation and subtle ambiance, preserving intimacy without sacrificing the vibrant energy of a social gathering. Combined with the history of the place, which has hosted luminaries from entertainment, politics, and the arts, the setting inspires a sense of occasion that elevates the mood of any event. Groups find themselves enveloped not just in comfort but in a narrative that connects them to decades of cultural artistry and social exchange, which many venues cannot replicate.
What makes The Russian Tea Room suitable for private events and special occasions?
The Russian Tea Room excels as a venue for private events due to its unique blend of historical prestige, elegant design, and versatile space. Whether you are planning a wedding reception, a corporate dinner, a birthday celebration, or a rehearsal dinner, the restaurant’s private event offerings can be tailored to your group’s size and preferences. Their dedicated events team works closely with clients to customize menus, seating arrangements, and special touches that ensure your gathering is seamless and memorable. The grandeur of the surroundings naturally lends itself to high-impact photo opportunities and an atmosphere of celebration. The rich cultural environment also provides a talking point and a backdrop that elevates even the most straightforward events. Moreover, The Russian Tea Room’s reputation for attentive service and meticulous attention to detail means hosts and guests alike can enjoy the occasion with confidence in every aspect of the event’s execution.
How does The Russian Tea Room blend tradition with modern hospitality?
The Russian Tea Room is a testament to the successful melding of venerable tradition with contemporary hospitality standards, creating a space that honors its past while embracing today’s expectations. Since its founding, it has maintained its dedication to Russian cultural authenticity, evident in both its menu offerings and atmospheric design inspired by Russian art-deco aesthetics. Yet, it simultaneously ensures modern comforts and services, such as accommodating dietary restrictions with vegetarian and gluten-free options, convenient online reservations, and accommodating private group needs. This blend means guests enjoy a polished experience that respects history but is not stuck in time. The restaurant continues to innovate subtly in service and menu curation, keeping the atmosphere fresh and relevant while still grounded in legacy. For groups and meetups, this balance means they can savor something genuinely unique yet comfortably current—a hallmark of an outstanding and enduring gathering place.
What do reviewers say about hosting meetups at The Russian Tea Room?
With 3.9 stars out of around 1,750 reviews, The Russian Tea Room’s reputation reflects a mix of appreciation for its historical charm and occasional notes on its high price point or service variability. Many guests praise it as a memorable venue that elevates social gatherings through its unique ambiance and rich menu options. Groups often highlight the joy of sharing the traditional afternoon tea or sampling Russian specialties together, praising the environment for creating a convivial mood perfect for conversation. However, some reviews do point out that the experience may come with expectations of a premium price and occasionally a busy atmosphere, common in a landmark location. Despite this, the consensus acknowledges the venue’s ability to turn a simple meetup into an event with cultural resonance and sophisticated flair. For those who prioritize atmosphere and tradition alongside their group activities, The Russian Tea Room remains a favored choice in New York City.
What practical tips can help maximize your meetup at The Russian Tea Room?
To make your group meetup at The Russian Tea Room as enjoyable as possible, it’s wise to plan ahead. Because it’s a popular and upscale venue, reserving a table or private space online in advance guarantees your group has a dedicated spot, especially for larger parties or special occasions. Consider exploring their afternoon tea service for a daytime gathering, which offers a structured yet relaxing way to encounter the venue’s signature hospitality. For evening or dinner meetups, coordinating orders to share appetizers or tasting plates can enhance the communal spirit and let everyone sample a diversity of flavors. Since some menu items cater to specific dietary needs, notifying the staff ahead of time ensures all guests are comfortable and accommodated. Lastly, arrive with an appreciation for the restaurant’s rich history and ambiance—embracing this immersive atmosphere can elevate the mood and encourage deeper engagement among your group, turning a simple meal into a memorable cultural outing.