Founded in 1927 by members of the Russian Imperial Ballet, the Russian Tea Room has long been a haven for members of the entertainment industry and has hosted scenes not only from Woody Allen’s movie, Manhattan, but also from Nora Ephron’s film, When Harry Met Sally, as well as Dustin Hoffman’s unforgettable Tootsie.

It has been frequented by the likes of Ayn Rand and Madonna as well as by many members of the NY entertainment industry. Relatively recent renovations have resulted in a rich, elegant updated version of Old World Russian ambiance, but the food is as much continental as it is Russian.

While the Russian Tea Room serves 4 types of Afternoon Tea (Classic, Gluten-free, Vegetarian and Children’s), we went there for their 3-course pre-theater menu.

Denis and I both ordered a flight of Vodka and began with blini topped with sour cream and fish roe.

Blini topped with sour cream and trout, salmon and white fish roes

Denis continued with Boeuf Stroganoff and a Chocolate Pyramid (bittersweet chocolate with a raspberry filling) while I selected 2 more appetizers for our 3-course meal, Borscht and a goat cheese and wild mushroom Blinchik (Russian crepe).

Boeuf a la Stroganoff

I enjoyed all 3 of the Vodkas – Jewel of Russia, Stolichnaya, and Jewel of Russia Wild Berry – while Denis left the unflavored Jewel of Russia for me to finish … not a problem!

Red Borscht with Pierogi

He preferred the Stroganoff he ate last summer in St. Petersburg to that of the Russian Tea Room, and I found the borscht there lacking a bit in flavor but I very much enjoyed the crepe, which paired perfectly with the somewhat sweet Jewel of Russia Wild Berry vodka.

Crepe filled with wild mushrooms, goat cheese, onions and lingonberries

Visit the Russian Tea Room more for a memorable than a gourmet experience.