Takashimaya, New York City

It closed… I was looking forward to it too. The legend of Takashimaya will live on.

I always go to Takashimia when in NYC once or twice a year. We found it looking for places in NYC that sell tea - and now often have lunch there. It is a unique experience and I have told many friends that go to NYC who now also always go in.

The bottom floor of the NY store houses the most wonderful selection of tea ware. Bowls of loose tea, beautiful tea sets, cups and mini tatami mats fill the room. The employees are helpful, eloquent and know what they are talking about. I was recommended a wonderful matchatori sen cha blend for only $12 (around �7!!). A typical tea cup will cost around $18 and upwards, with tea pots around $100. They are worth it though as you will never find such authentic and beautiful pottery outside of Japan

I've been fortunate enough to travel most of the world, and yet the constantly stunning Takashimaya Store remains at, or near the top of my list! To browse, perchance to buy and /or be inspired, this oasis of refinement never fails to amaze every one of my senses. I have never been in NYC and left without at least one visit to this wonderous emporium of exquisite taste.

Great place to hang out with your girlfriends. Pricey for nibbles but not ridiculous and stays under control because it's an all-in price. Very lady-like.

This is the most consistently unique boutique department store in New York. The first floor features a flower department that crafts hand-tied stick sculptures that assemble into architectural structures for holding plants upright. The first floor accessories department features many one-of-a-kind items from $15 to $150 (although higher prices are also in the mix. Visit every floor for high-end products that include Japanese antiques and furniture, clothing (small sizes plentiful), and cosmetics. Make a luncheon reservation for their tea room for an authentic luxury experience within a reasonable budget.