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Gramercy Park Tea & Talk

I've lived in New York for many years and this remains one of my favorite outings. Whether it's to celebrate a special occasion with a close girlfriend or catchup with friends visiting from out of town, it's a perfect relaxed and beautiful afternoon. Lady Mendl's is a real hidden gem, delicious tea served in a beautiful classic New York townhome. Gramercy Park is a great neighborhood for a stroll afterward and I always enjoy seeing what art is on exhibit at SVA. Enjoy!

Emily R.

Emily is a singer, teacher and mother who knows Manhattan. There are few things she enjoys more than spending a fall day in Central Park with her family. A close second is a tall coffee and a Brooklyn Blackout from Two Little Red Hens.

Lady Mendl's Tea Salon

Traditional high tea | Victorian townhome @ Inn at Irving Place

$$$

(212) 533-4600 website

56 Irving Pl, New York, NY 10003

Lady Mendl's is a traditional tea salon serving high tea in a classic New York brownstone decorated in Victorian style. It's the perfect location to gather for an intimate lunch with girlfriends whether your are celebrating a special occasion or just catching up. The setting is beautiful, the food is delicious and the service is very accommodating! If you are someone that enjoys history, you will also appreciate Lady Mendl herself, known by her full name Elise de Wolfe. Many credit her with creating the modern day profession of interior decorating. She designed spaces for many of the wealthiest industry barons and magnets of the time and was a fixture in New York society.

School of Visual Arts Gramercy Gallery

Student Art Gallery

Free

(212) 592-2145 website

209 East 23rd Street

A short walk from Lady Mendl's north along Irving Place and around Gramercy Park will take you to 23rd street and one of the School of Visual Arts buildings. The Gramercy Gallery at SVA is a great place to stroll and chat and take in the latest student exhibition on display. It is one of SVA’s three galleries across New York City, and hosts an array of exhibitions all year long. Check out their website to see what they are showing currently. Enjoy!