High Tea at The Plaza: Is the Holiday Tea Worth $150?
High Tea at The Plaza: Is the Holiday Tea Worth $150?
The “Eloise” Fantasy: A Brutally Honest Review of NYC’s Most Famous Afternoon Tea
There is perhaps no hotel more synonymous with Christmas in New York than **The Plaza**. It is the setting of *Home Alone 2* and the home of the fictional *Eloise*. During the holidays, The Palm Court—the hotel’s iconic, stained-glass domed restaurant—transforms into a temple of greenery, baubles, and scones.
But prestige comes with a price tag. The “Holiday Tea” costs nearly $150 per person (before tax and tip). Is it a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience, or an overpriced tourist trap?
” The Verdict: You are paying for the *room*. The Palm Court is arguably the most beautiful dining room in NYC. If you want to feel like a Gilded Age millionaire for 90 minutes, it is worth it. If you are just hungry, go elsewhere.”
🫖 The “Holiday Tea” Experience
Here is what $150 actually gets you:
- The Setting: You sit under a massive stained-glass dome surrounded by palm trees and holiday garlands. A live harpist or pianist plays Christmas carols.
- The Menu: A three-tiered tower featuring finger sandwiches (cucumber, truffle egg salad), warm scones with Devonshire cream, and intricate holiday pastries (often shaped like ornaments or Santa hats).
- The Tea: A selection of loose-leaf blends, including a custom “Plaza Holiday Blend.”
- The Champagne: Usually *not* included in the base price. Adding a glass of Veuve Clicquot pushes the bill closer to $190/pp.
🚨 Booking Strategy: The 30-Day Rule
Reservations for The Palm Court open on OpenTable exactly 30 days in advance at midnight. During December, they vanish in minutes. If you can’t get a table, try for a late seating (8:30 PM) or check for last-minute cancellations 24 hours prior.
| Dining & Drinking | Visuals & Lights |
|---|---|
| Plaza High Tea Guide (You are here) | Best NYC Christmas Trees |
| Best Hot Chocolate NYC | Saks Light Show Guide |
| Romantic Date Spots | Holiday Windows Guide |
The Alternatives: 3 Other Luxury Teas
Can’t get into The Plaza? These options are just as luxurious (and often have better food).
1. Bergdorf Goodman (BG Restaurant)
Location: 7th Floor of the Department Store (5th Ave).
The Vibe: Fashion Insider.
Why It Wins: The view. You are sitting *above* Fifth Avenue, looking directly at Central Park and The Plaza. The food is chic and lighter.
Best For: A post-shopping break.
2. The St. Regis (Astor Court)
Location: 55th St & 5th Ave.
The Vibe: Old Money Silence.
Why It Wins: It is far quieter and more intimate than The Plaza. The service is impeccable (white glove). It feels like a private club.
Best For: Serious conversation and traditionalists.
3. The Whitby Hotel (The Orangery)
Location: Midtown (56th St).
The Vibe: Contemporary British.
Why It Wins: The design. It is colorful, modern, and fun. The tea service is authentic (the hotel is British-owned) and significantly cheaper than The Plaza.
Best For: Design lovers.
Comparison: The Tea Index
Where should you spend your afternoon?
| Venue | Price (Approx.) | Ambiance | Booking Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Plaza | $150++ | Iconic / Busy | Extreme (30 days out) |
| St. Regis | $110++ | Quiet / Elegant | High |
| Bergdorf’s | $95++ | Chic / Fashion | Medium |
| Alice’s Tea Cup | $40++ | Whimsical / Casual | Low (Walk-ins possible) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a dress code for The Plaza?
Yes. The dress code is “Smart Casual.” While you don’t need a tuxedo, shorts, flip-flops, and athletic wear are frowned upon (and you might feel out of place). Most guests dress up for the occasion (dresses, jackets).
Can I share a tea service?
Generally, no. During the holiday season, The Plaza (and most high-end venues) requires a “per person” charge. You cannot order one tower for two people.
Is the “Eloise Tea” different?
Yes. The Plaza offers a specific “Eloise Tea” for children (usually under 12). It features kid-friendly sandwiches (like PB&J or ham and cheese), pink lemonade, and cotton candy. It is slightly cheaper than the adult version.
Keywords for your next internet searches
The Plaza Hotel Afternoon Tea Reservations, Best High Tea NYC Christmas, Palm Court Dress Code, Eloise at The Plaza Tea, Bergdorf Goodman Restaurant Reservations, St. Regis NYC Tea, NYC Holiday Tea Prices.
🇧🇷 Love Coffee & Tea? Discover São Paulo’s Best
São Paulo has a rich coffee culture and elegant tea rooms. Visit our partners at Comércio São Paulo:
🔗 Explore the Full Christmas Special
We’ve organized all our itineraries below for easy navigation:
Christmas Special (Index):
Dining & Drinking Itinerary:
The Ultimate Guide to Christmas in NYC 2025
