Review: Why Prince Tea House is NYC's Best Hidden Gem

New York City runs on a different internal clock than the rest of the world. It is a city of constant motion, towering ambition, and noise. While the energy is undeniably magnetic, even the most dedicated urbanite eventually craves a moment of stillness. You might be looking for a place to catch up with an old friend, a spot to take your parents when they visit, or simply a quiet corner to read a book while enjoying a sweet treat.

Enter Prince Tea House.

With locations scattered across the boroughs—from the bustling streets of Flushing to the trendy corners of the East Village—Prince Tea House has quietly become a sanctuary for dessert lovers and tea enthusiasts alike. It isn't just a cafe; it is an experience that blends European elegance with Asian tea culture, offering an accessible slice of luxury for everyone. Whether you are planning a solo adventure or a family outing, here is why this charming spot deserves a place on your NYC itinerary.

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The first thing you notice when you walk into any Prince Tea House location is the attention to detail. The aesthetic is distinctively French-Victorian but with a modern, airy twist. We are talking about sparkling chandeliers, plush velvet chairs, fresh floral arrangements, and delicate porcelain teacups that make you feel like royalty.

Despite the upscale decor, the atmosphere remains warm and inviting. It manages to thread the needle between "special occasion" and "casual hang-out." You will see students studying with laptops next to a table of retirees enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea. The soft lighting and gentle background music create a bubble of calm, making it easy to forget the sirens and subway rumbles just outside the door.

For those who love to document their travels on social media, the interior is undeniably photogenic. But unlike some "Instagram traps" where the decor outshines the food, Prince Tea House backs up its visuals with substance.

The menu at Prince Tea House is extensive, specifically regarding the tea selection. If you are used to a simple bag of black tea in hot water, prepare for an upgrade. Their list includes dozens of varieties, ranging from classic British blends to aromatic floral teas and traditional Asian options.

One of the standout categories is their fresh fruit teas. These aren't powered mixes; they are brewed teas served with generous chunks of fresh fruit—strawberries, oranges, apples, and passion fruit—swimming in the pot. The presentation is beautiful, served in clear glass teapots kept warm by a small candle flame underneath. The "Prince Fruit Tea" is a crowd favorite, offering a balance of sweet and tart that is refreshing in the summer and comforting in the winter.

If you prefer something creamier, their milk tea selection is robust. The Hokkaido Milk Tea and the Rose Milk Tea are particularly popular, offering a rich, velvety texture without being overly sugary. For purists, there are plenty of high-quality oolongs, green teas, and herbal infusions.

The staff is generally very helpful if you feel overwhelmed by the choices. They can guide you toward something light and floral or robust and caffeinated, depending on your mood. Plus, for hot tea orders, hot water refills are free, meaning you can linger over your pot for hours without feeling rushed.

While the tea is excellent, the desserts are the real reason locals keep coming back. Prince Tea House creates confections that are not only visually stunning but also sophisticated in flavor. They tend to follow the Asian dessert philosophy: not too sweet, light in texture, and heavily focused on fresh ingredients.

If you only order one thing, let it be a slice of Mille Crepe cake. This French classic consists of many layers of paper-thin crepes stacked with light pastry cream in between. Prince Tea House offers a variety of flavors, but the Green Tea (Matcha) Mille Crepe is the icon. The bitterness of the matcha perfectly cuts through the cream, creating a balanced bite that melts in your mouth. Other popular flavors include Mango, Durian (for the adventurous), and Coconut.

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Molten Lava Cake is a reliable hit, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you are visiting with a group or a hungry family, consider the "Toast Box." This is a massive dessert featuring a hollowed-out loaf of toasted bread filled with ice cream, fruits, and syrup. It is a showstopper when it hits the table and is perfect for sharing.

But our all-time favorite is Tiramisu!

One of the greatest strengths of Prince Tea House is its versatility. It fits effortlessly into various travel itineraries and caters to a wide demographic.

Traveling with a multigenerational group can be tricky. You need a place that accommodates children but is comfortable enough for seniors. Prince Tea House hits this mark perfectly. The seating is comfortable—no backless stools or cramped communal tables here. The environment is safe and clean, and the menu has plenty of options that kids love (like ice cream and sweet teas) while offering traditional pots of tea that grandparents will appreciate. It is a low-stress environment where families can actually hear each other talk.

If you are exploring NYC alone, dining out can sometimes feel intimidating. Here, it is completely normal to see people sitting alone with a book or a laptop. The staff is attentive but unobtrusive. You can order a pot of Rose Tea and a slice of cheesecake and spend an hour recharging your social battery before heading back out to a museum or a Broadway show.

 Looking for a romantic spot that won't break the bank? The dim lighting and elegant glassware make it a lovely spot for a date, especially after dinner. It is also a premier destination for a "Galentine's" celebration or a catch-up with friends. The shared experience of pouring tea for one another and splitting desserts fosters connection. 

New York City is notorious for being expensive. A cocktail at a rooftop bar can easily set you back $25. Prince Tea House offers a luxury feeling at a much more accessible price point. A pot of tea (which yields several cups) typically costs between $8 and $12, and desserts hover around the $10-$12 mark.

You can enjoy a sophisticated afternoon experience for under $25 per person, which is a steal in this city. This budget flexibility allows travelers to save money for other big-ticket attractions like the Empire State Building or theater tickets, without feeling like they are sacrificing quality dining.

Most locations are situated near subway lines, making them easy to reach. Whether you are staying in Manhattan, exploring the authentic food scene in Flushing, Queens, or checking out the neighborhoods of Brooklyn, there is likely a Prince Tea House nearby

As the brand has grown, they have maintained a consistent level of quality across all their outposts. Here are a few key locations to keep on your radar:

• Flushing (Queens): The original vibe. It is located in a bustling Asian food district. Great to visit after grabbing dumplings nearby.
• East Village (Manhattan): Perfect if you are exploring Manhattan. It is smaller and cozier, fitting right into the eclectic vibe of the neighborhood. THIS IS OUR FAVORITE!
• Bensonhurst & Bay Ridge (Brooklyn): These locations are spacious and very family-friendly, often frequented by locals living in these residential neighborhoods.

In a city that prides itself on the "go-go-go" mentality, Prince Tea House offers permission to slow down. It is a reminder that travel isn't just about seeing every landmark; it is about the moments of pleasure you find in between.

Whether you are celebrating a retirement milestone, enjoying a school holiday trip with the kids, or just treating yourself because you deserve it, this tea house delivers a tailor-made experience. It combines the comfort of a living room with the service of a fine dining establishment.

So, next time your feet are tired from walking Central Park or navigating the MoMA, skip the generic coffee chain. Find the nearest Prince Tea House, order a pot of fruit tea, and enjoy a slice of the good life.