Russian Tea Room in New York

The Russian Tea Room in New York is a restaurant in Manhattan in Art Deco style, with a long list of famous visitors. And it’s a worthwhile addition to your trip. Escape the bustle of the modern Big Apple and be transported back to the 1920s. When liquor was illegal so tea was served instead. There was class, fine dining, and New York was roaring.

Book your table at the Russian Tea Room here

Eric's Index

1 Fine Dining in the Russian Tea Room
- 1.1 Afternoon tea
2 History and Theatre
3 Interior
- 3.1 Practical Information
4 FAQ

Fine Dining in the Russian Tea Room

Dining at the Russian Tea Room in New York is a night out in itself, but if you have tickets for ballet or opera at the nearby Lincoln Center then the staff will be more that happy to seat you for a ‘Pre-theatre’ arrangement. The dinner includes a classic Russian cuisine 3-course menu. Be sure to also try the traditional way of drinking tea in the 1920’s!

Afternoon tea

The Russian Tea Room is famous for its afternoon tea. Indulge in a traditional high tea featuring sandwiches, authentic Russian blini, all kinds of sweet treats, plus of course a selection of Russian teas. It makes for a nice pre-theatre dining experience, but of course, it’s also a great spot for anyone who simply appreciates a good afternoon tea.

Eric’s Tip: “You should take time to enjoy the Russian Tea Room. I highly recommend the Boeuf à la Stroganoff and a glass of wine to go with it. Everything about the restaurant focuses on the overall experience rather than just dinner. The music, the staff, the food and of course the tea are carefully considered to be part of this.”

Russian Tea Room in New York

History and Theatre

The Russian Tea Room is the place to be for location, history and art. It boasts a number of artworks by Picasso and Matisse. Located in Midtown, the Russian Tea Room is right next to the Carnegie Hall and close to Lincoln Center.

In addition, it was Madonna’s first New York workplace. She supposedly got fired from the coat check after putting her demos in the pockets of influential people. Famous movies have also been filmed at the Russian Tea Room in New York, including scenes in “Sweet Smell of Success”, “Tootsie” and “Manhattan”.

Interior

A lot of the interior is original to the 1927 building, but extensive renovations have kept the ambiance of what it would have been like during the Prohibition (although they do now sell liquor). This 90+ year old institution is a magnet for poets and businessmen, actors and politicians and a perfect place for a romantic dinner.

Practical Information

Location: 150 W 57th Street, Midtown
How to get there: take a yellow cab or one of the rideshares. The closest subway station is the 57 St – 7 Av with lines N Q R W
Dress code: business casual

FAQ

Yes, reservations are highly recommended. You can book your table online in advance. You can try a walk-in; it may be accommodated, but not guaranteed.

I definitely recommend the Boeuf à la Stroganoff. Other must-try dishes include Chicken Kiev, Borscht and caviar service. And don't miss the tea ritual!

Absolutely, it's a great spot to have dinner before a ballet or opera performance! They even offer a three-course pre-theatre dinner. They have the perfect location, next to Carnegie Hall and close to Lincoln Center.

The restaurant has a 'business casual' dress code. Given the elegant setting of the restaurant, dress to impress.