Game, set, match! The Plaza has temporarily transformed its iconic afternoon tea service into a tennis-themed dining experience to celebrate the US Open.
Through a sweeping partnership with Lacoste, the historic hotel has augmented its traditional decor with tennis balls, vintage wooden rackets, and the French brand’s signature crocodile motifs.
Le Café Lacoste at The Palm Court
The hotel’s famous Palm Court is currently operating as Le Café Lacoste. The takeover is immediately visible from the hotel steps, where a green carpet featuring a massive white crocodile leads guests inside. The lobby features elaborate installations constructed from tennis netting, white floral arrangements, and spherical green topiaries surrounding a Club Lacoste New York medallion.
The centerpiece of the activation is a highly stylized afternoon tea service.
The traditional tiered trays now hold a curated selection of French-inspired savory bites, including delicate layered sandwiches, alongside a lineup of custom-designed pastries. The miniature desserts include bright yellow macarons stamped with the cafe’s logo, bright green crocodile-embossed treats, and cakes shaped precisely like a folded Lacoste polo shirt.
The beverage menu has also been customized for the duration of the tennis tournament. Alongside traditional tea service, patrons can order from a selection of specialty mixed drinks that the menu officially titles “c(r)ocktails,” adorned with melon ball garnishes and served in custom glassware.
The tennis-themed takeover at The Plaza, located at 768 5th Ave, runs through September 6.