Russian Tea Room
New York, NY 10019-3310
Phone: (212) 581-7100
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Between 6th Avenue and 7th Avenue
- Directions:
- B, D; E at 7th Ave; N, R; B, Q at 57th St
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-11pm, Fri 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-11:30pm, Sat 11:30am-2:30pm, 5pm-11:30pm, Sun 11:30am-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Russian Tea Room – by Justin Hartung
In Short
Reopened after a four-year closure, this New York landmark hasn't changed much. Its surreal mix of bohemian quirkiness and slightly garish extravagance remains intact, from Christmas-ornament decorations to samovars to the upstairs dining room's glass bear filled with fish. The menu provides updated takes on old-world classics, including apple wood-smoked duck, borscht with short ribs and cocoa dusted venison loin. To round meals out, the restaurant still offers a massive selection of caviars, vodkas and teas.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
What to DrinkIn addition to its famous list of 40 vodkas, cocktails also fare splendidly. Though it may feel corny to order, the Moscow Mule delivers a gingery kick in the pants.
LunchThe lunch menu includes dishes like sour cream gnocchi ($31) and a caviar omelet ($25).
Where to SitThe booths in the downstairs dining room are perfect for surveying the entire room, as they all face outward. The more elegant upstairs dining room is still closed for renovations.
Fun FactIn the famous movie scene, Dustin Hoffman's "Tootsie" character revealed herself to her agent at table No. 2.
User Reviews for Russian Tea Room
08/28/2008 Posted by HalieLa
My sister was visiting me from out of town, so I decided to show her the infamous glass bear at this NYC “institution.” We'd asked her concierge to make a reservation for us on the second floor because that's where the glass bear is located and the RT confirmed that reservation, but when we arrived we were seated on the first floor and told that there was a private party on the second floor. Later (as in one hour later at 9:00 p.m.), we were the ONLY people left in the entire restaurant (which in my opinion speaks volumes about the RT…what sort of NYC restaurant has only two diners left at 9:00 p.m.) and it was obvious that there was NO party on the second floor, so I asked if they would please show us the glass bear (seriously, that is THE only reason I chose the RT). This time they said that the second floor was locked and that no one had the key and that we must have misunderstood earlier. No, actually they lied earlier and were now switching to another lie. I don't even think it's legal to lock an entire floor of a restaurant and not have access to a key...hello, fire hazard! So, the meal was mediocre at best, especially for a NYC “institution” and with “institution” prices to match. I know that the RT was once wonderful, but those days are long gone. From what I can tell, they are now solely reliant on tourists. Whatever their current customer base, the RT should be treating it’s customers with friendliness and respect. Instead, the RT is taking reservations under false pretenses, lying to customers and serving mediocre meals. If you want a great night out at a NYC institution…look elsewhere and definitely do not expect to see the RT bear no matter what the reservationist promises.
Pros: Interesting Decor
Cons: You will NOT see the Bear...Mediocre Food...Lying and Lazy Staff
05/25/2008 Posted by LadyXoc
The Russian Tea Room with its lavish period decor, warm and attentive service and lovingly prepared food would make any evening special. The bar is a wonderful place to wait after arriving early for a concert; the drinks are imaginative and potent, and despite all the extra attention, not pricier than anywhere else in the neighborhood. In fact, dinner at the Russian Tea Room, although definitely not cheap, is not that much more expensive than the other neighborhood restaurants. I may never eat anywhere else.
Cons: None
