Afternoon Tea Shows Off Ritzy Manhattan
N E W Y O R K, Feb. 12 -- Teatime in Manhattan is much more than sconesand finger sandwiches. Afternoon tea not only serves as a tonic forweary sightseers, but it can also help you experience aspects ofthe city you might otherwise miss.
A budget traveler who could never afford a luxury hotel can usethe hotel's $30 afternoon tea as a window into that high-classworld. A tourist who's spent the day waiting on line at crowdedlandmarks may relish the chance to sit in a friendly neighborhoodcafe. And if you don't have time for the decorative artscollections at the city's museums, afternoon tea showcases manyeveryday objects made beautiful — silver tea strainers, bone-chinacups and teapots shaped like castles.
If you're downtown, try the exquisite Lady Mendl's, where you'llbe charmed by Gramercy Park's streetscapes; Tea & Sympathy, a cozyBritish cafe in Greenwich Village; or the trendy T Salon near theFlatiron Building. Uptown, a Japanese-themed tea awaits atTakashimaya; Alice's Tea Cup pays tribute to Lewis Carroll; and themother of all teas, at the Plaza Hotel, features elegance andEloise.
THE PLAZA HOTEL'S PALM COURT: From the harpist in her glittering gown to the waiters' impeccable service, from the gilt-edged marblecolumns to the crystal chandeliers, from the towering palm trees tothe pink azaleas blooming in winter, the setting is magical andopulent.
The Plaza is the city's only hotel on the National Register ofHistoric Landmarks, and as you pass the limos parked outside,you're walking in the footsteps of Vanderbilts and movie stars.Films shot here range from North by Northwest to Home AloneII. Inside, take the hall on your left to visit the portrait ofEloise, from the famous children's book, and the restrooms; eventhe bathroom ceilings are trimmed in gold.
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