Tea at The Carlyle with Madeline and Friends

Every Saturday till December 18, 2010, The Carlyle is hosting a Madeline Tea Party in honor of artist and author Ludwig Bemelmans at Bemelmans Bar, where little ones and their adults can be surrounded by his beautiful murals.

Ludwig Bemelmans, creator of the renowned Madeline children’s books was commissioned in 1947 and received a 18- month stay at The Carlyle in exchange for his magical creations. The artist’s depiction of New York’s Central Park, and his only surviving public commission, has been a beloved landmark for more than half a century. It is here where where this charming event takes place.

Upon settling we were greeted by singer and songwriter Tina de Varon, who immediately captivated the little ones with her songs and piano playing. She invited them to dance and sing with her, and though my boys were initially shy in doing so, her rendition to 12 Days of Christmas, which gave each child a role, warmed them up to the fun.

The brunch ($40 per person/$20 per child under 3) includes little sandwiches, fruit, cakes, mac and cheese, quesadillas, and other bite size treats perfect for tea time. You can also purchase Madeline products, such as a doll, books, and even a tea set.

At night, adult patrons can also enjoy the room as the space serves opens up as a bar to the general public.

I think the event is incredibly well done. I love that the doors of the space are closed and provide the children with the freedom and privacy to enjoy their tea time fun. The bar is open to serve drinks aside from tea, such as coffee, juice, and soft drinks. The staff is polite and incredibly patient with the little ones, and Ms. Tina is magnificent in her craft and ability to wrangle up the kids once she sees them getting hyper or distracted (she’s had her share of wrangling as a mom of teenage boys).

The fact that it’s a Madeline Tea Party didn’t deter me from bringing my boys, and I am glad it didn’t. Though there were mostly little girls in attendance, my boys weren’t the only ones and they had a blast. My youngest especially loved it when the staff sang, along with Ms. Tina, brought him a cupcake with a lit candle and sang Happy Birthday to him. The look on his face: priceless.

I highly recommend a Saturday brunch at The Carlyle’s Madeline Tea Party. Reservations are needed and space is limited. For more information or reservations call (212) 744-1600.

Disclosure: This review is based on complimentary access provided by The Carlyle. I received no other compensation and no requirements that I express a particular point of view.

Your email:

 

Tags: food, hotel, kid friendly
Posted in Good Eats | 3 Comments »