Cheers From the Plaza Hotel's Afternoon Tea

One of New York's most intriguing and stylish addresses continues to offer a window into the past with a knack for keeping things firmly rooted in the present and future: The Plaza Hotel. Afternoon tea is a time-honored tradition for those who enjoy a bit of a respite during the day and recognize the importance of taking the time to enjoy the surprises ready to be discovered in some of the worlds finest teas. All this is only steps away from the chaos of what I have come to love about the city that never sleeps.

The Plaza's Afternoon Tea service is an opportunity to embrace your love of food, formality and a mix of innovation (the menu) with service (bordering on perfection) at a destination that holds history by the short-hairs with a grace and ease that only the Plaza could master.

Tea service is set in the Palm Court, where you might catch a glimpse the elusive Eloise, who is rumored to still grace the hotel with her precocious, girlish charm. What could be better than some of the world's best champagnes, teas and a seemingly endless array of tiny sandwiches and sweets?

I highly recommend setting aside at least two hours to fully experience this delight. Some of the culinary standouts are the Curried Lobster Salad and Pate de Fruit with Gin Rickey Sugar.

The entire tea menu -- under the watchful and inventive eyes of Executive Chef, Willis Loughhead and Pastry Chef, Jasmina Bojic -- combines the traditional with the modern, creating a flawless fusion of style and flavor with the help of a staff that offers uncompromising service. All this engenders a sense of indulgence and decadence that is truly unforgettable.

Note: In the spirit of full disclosure, I have no commercial affiliation with the Plaza Hotel nor was I paid for my review.