Feb 23 - 24: ILLUSTRATOR TEA AT DOWLING’S AT THE CARLYLE
- Upstairs NYC
- Feb 22
- 2 min read
Your portrait, served with tea. ☕️🎨✨
Practical Info
Date & Time: Monday Feb 23, 2pm-4:30pm, Tuesday Feb 24, 2pm-4:30pm
Location: Dowling’s at The Carlyle 35 East 76th Street, New York, NY (map)
Overview:
The legendary Afternoon Tea at The Carlyle reaches new heights of elegance as Izak Zenou extends his Artist-in-Residence tenure through 2026. Zenou, the visionary behind the iconic Henri Bendel windows for over two decades, brings his signature style to Dowling’s. As guests indulge in a traditional tea ritual, Zenou creates live, fluid sketches in real-time, capturing the silhouettes and spirit of those in attendance. It is a rare fusion of fine dining, performance art, and fashion illustration.
Key Takeaways:
Live Illustration: Watch Izak Zenou transform the dining room into a studio, sketching guests with his world-renowned expressive lines.
A Timeless Keepsake: Guests depart not just with memories, but with a personal, tangible work of art reflecting their style.
Immersive Hospitality: A reimagined tea ritual that prioritizes a "slow down" philosophy, focusing on connection and observation.
Iconic Setting: Experience the sophisticated, unhurried atmosphere of Dowling’s within one of NYC’s most storied hotels.
An Insider’s Tip:
Reservations via Resy are essential, as this is one of the most sought-after tea experiences in the city. When booking, try to request a table with a good view of the room to watch Zenou’s creative process unfold—it’s as much a meditation as it is a performance.
A Note for Our Inner Circle:
While the tea is refined, don't be afraid to showcase your personal style. Zenou’s sketches thrive on capturing "fleeting gestures and silhouettes," so wearing something that makes you feel confident will only add to the magic of your custom portrait.
Who You May Spot: Fashion editors, Upper East Side icons, international travelers with an eye for art, and those seeking a quintessential "New York moment" far from the midtown hustle.
