The New York Book of Tea: Where to Take Tea and Buy Tea and Teaware

This is a guide to the best spots in New York City to have afternoon tea. The book has a distinct Manhattan focus. It is available both in hardcover and in paperback. Either way, the book is small enough to fit easily in a purse or briefcase. The guidebook is divided into 6 chapters: Hotel Teas, Restaurant and Teahouse Teas, Asian Tea Experience, Department Store Teas, Museum Teas and Where to Shop for Tea and Paraphernelia. The book lists dozens of hotels, shops, restaurants and cafes which host a fine tea experience. Each listing includes the address, a succinct description of the decor, a sample menu (afternoon tea fare generally includes tea, fruit and/or pastry, but can include more elaborate offerings such as dessert wines, caviars and cheese trays), prices, hours when afternoon tea is served, and other useful tidbits of information. One to two pages are devoted to describing each tea spot. I found that the amount of information provided served my needs just right. I can confirm that the book's descriptions of tea at the Algonquin and the Plaza Hotels are accurate. After reading this book, I've made notes of half a dozen more places to visit the next time I'm in Manhattan. In addition, the book features a tea glossary and provides instructions for how to brew the perfect cup of tea, depending upon the type of tea (the directions differ drastically between grean, white and black teas). The index is the most outstanding feature of this guidebook. Instead of listing tea spots alphabetically, the places that serve afternoon teas are listed by neighborhood. The beauty of this arrangement is that a party whose time is limited can know instantaneously which options are available within easy walking distance. If you are entertaining clients, if you have children or older people with you, or even if you just prefer walking to the subway, this feature is a godsend. I recommend this book for 1) tea aficionados who are visiting New York and 2) law firms or other businesses located in NYC who entertain clients during afternoon hours.