This winter, Whittard of Chelsea, the 140‑year‑old London tea brand, will collaborate with the Empire State Building’s STATE Grill & Bar to introduce a Bridgerton‑themed English Afternoon Tea. Running from 20 January to 13 February 2026, the event marks the return of the popular television series with a culinary experience that combines elements of British tradition and New York dining.

Hosted at the Art Deco‑inspired STATE Grill & Bar, the afternoon tea will take place in a contemporary setting featuring warm wood finishes, geometric glass elements and a golden hue reminiscent of 1930s Manhattan. The design is intended to complement Bridgerton’s Regency-era aesthetic while offering a modern backdrop.

The afternoon tea, open to restaurant guests and available as an optional add-on for visitors to the Empire State Building Observatory, will feature Whittard of Chelsea teas alongside a curated menu created by Executive Chef Morgan Jarrett.

The menu includes a selection of sandwiches such as Coronation Chicken Salad and Truffled Local King Mushroom, as well as traditional scones served with Devonshire cream and house-made market fruit jam. Desserts will include Strawberries & Cream Choux, Valrhona Chocolate Mousse Tulips and Sticky Toffee Pudding. Signature teas featured will include English Rose, Earl Grey and Chelsea Breakfast.

Guests may also opt for cocktails and Champagnes. Among the offerings is The Elizabeth, a rose-petal gin and English rose tea tonic, as well as selections such as Piper-Heidsieck Brut and Veuve Clicquot Rosé Brut.

The event coincides with the upcoming season of Bridgerton, scheduled to premiere in January 2026. Known for its period setting, romantic storylines and modern production style, the series continues to attract a broad international audience.

Nicola Coughlan visits The Empire State Building on January 25, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

The initiative also reflects Whittard of Chelsea’s ongoing expansion in the United States. Following a winter pop-up at Macy’s in New York, the brand is increasing its visibility in American markets, introducing its tea products and afternoon tea culture to new consumers.

Interest in British afternoon tea has risen in the US, with search volume increasing by nearly 80% since 2022 (SevenRooms, 2024), suggesting a growing engagement with this tradition across American audiences.

The Bridgerton Afternoon Tea will be priced at $60.00 per person and available by reservation or as an addition to the Empire State Building Observatory Experience. Bookings can be made through STATE Grill & Bar or esbnyc.com.

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