Looking for the best, most fun places for afternoon tea (High Tea or less formal) in New York City. Any suggestions? Thanks!

The Plaza is famous for its tea; there are also small tea shops in areas such as the village that are neat,,,do both!
Check zagats..zagat.com

The high tea at the Pierre is wonderful

One of my favorites is Lady Mendl's at the Inn at Irving Place...you'll need a reservation.

Tea & Sympathy in the Village is good for a less formal tea...run by British ex-pats....no reservations but often a line

here's some info:

http://newyork.citysearch.com/profile/7104901/

High tea refers to the very heavy meal that the working class ate during the afternoon. Afternoon tea is the more elegant affair.

How about somethign completely different - go to the Alps teahouse in Chinatown and try "bubble tea" - extremely poular new drink. There's a tehouse a few doors over from Alps that also serves it but has nicer ambiance for sitting in. Bubble tea is not for everyone but has its adherents (I am not among them).

The Essex House near Central Park (59th and CPW) has a wonderful tea that isn't too costly. For a low key tea (no rhyme intended), Alice's Tea House on 73rd? and Columbus is adorable.