A beautiful atmosphere and a delightful selection of teas and snacks. Highly recommend for a smaller size gathering of 2-4, with reservation. They also have a walk-in cafe area that's more casual. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Afternoon tea - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

Usually, I don't expect much from a café attached to a historical site--maybe a pre-packaged sandwich, a cold soda, or a basic cup of coffee. But Hidden Oak Cafe proved me wrong in the best way possible. I was genuinely surprised to find a farm-fresh salad, a great crumb cake, and a deliciously brewed cup of coffee--all at a very reasonable price and served with a smile. If you're visiting the Bayard Cutting Arboretum, do yourself a favor and stop by. The food is genuinely great and the staff is welcoming. There's ample free parking for guests over 62, as part of the New York State Parks perks. The metered fee is $8.00 for the day. And if you've got a little extra time and there's space available, the $15 guided house tour is absolutely worth it--especially if you appreciate Tiffany glass and Gilded Age design. If you like what you read or find the pictures interesting, drop me a comment. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - The best mescaline, feta, walnut, and raspberry vinaigrette salad I have ever had! - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

See all

Nestled inside the Bayard Cutting Arboretum, this cafe has great food at a great price. I am still pleasantly surprised at how reasonable the prices are. I got the Turkey Wrap and a slice of the apple and walnut pie. If you're able to get that pie (I believe they rotate out flavors), get it. It was one of the best pieces of pie I've ever had. The sandwich came with a bag of chips! read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

See all

First time visiting this place and overall it was good but not great. The finger sandwiches were good, I enjoyed the Brie and fig, and turkey croissant. The scone was ok as were the pastries. I feel the pastries didn't look appealing. Almond bread was ok as was pumpkin roll. Tea was yummy and service was good. Probably wouldn't return. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

Visited the Bayard Cutting Arboretum for the first time to tour the grounds and manor, never expecting to find this hidden gem. Expecting to find a small coffee shop (due to the cafe in the name) we were pleasantly surprised to find a full restaurant. The service was very good, professional and friendly. The food was absolutely fresh, delicious and good size servings. The Lobster Bisque has to be one of best I've ever had. My sandwich was the Smoked Salmon served on pumpernickel bread. Everyone else enjoyed their choices as well. Ordered was the BLT, Roast Beef and Brie and the special of the day Roast Beef and Cheddar Cheese served on a baguette. Highly Recommend read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

See all

I'm a huge fan of this brunch-focused cafe at the Bayard Cutting Arboretum. In season, there is an $8 per car parking entry fee. Entry is free with the Empire State Parks pass. The prices are excellent and the savory food that my group of college friends and I had was excellent. Hidden Oak uses fresh ingredients and does not skimp on their portions. With indoor and outdoor seating in a historic mansion, you'll feel transported back in time. The service was friendly and efficient. Let them know in advance if you'd like to enjoy afternoon tea ($50 including tax) for tea, finger sandwiches, scones, crumpets and other tea party goodies. Overall the restaurant (and arboretum) are quaint and lovely. I'll be back for tea. read more

See all

They have a Victorian Tea at the Cafe. We made a reservation for a Saturday afternoon a day before. The Victorian Tea was $42.95 a person plus tax and automatic 20% tip so for 2 people, the bill was $110.49. Each person gets a tea pot. The scone and pistachio cake were good. The decor in the tea room was nice though. We came in a relatively hot day and they had fans out since there was no AC. read more

See all

First time here and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food. I arranged for a large group (20) and everyone had a really great time. The room was lovely and the tea choices were plentiful. My only comment and why I did not give Hidden Oak five stars was the service. Our server was not especially friendly or helpful. For the amount of money, you were paying for the ambiance and food. When you first get your tower of food, it doesn't look like much but it's plenty. The scones were delicious and huge. They were not dry at all, which is always my concern with scones. I wish they were more generous with the clotted cream. Otherwise, an awesome experience and meal. read more

See all

I suggest making reservations more than 24 hours in advance for the tea. I made the mistake of trying exactly a day before, so next time, I will call way in advance. But we were able to enjoy the cafe and the natural surroundings even without reservations. There was no wait since we came after lunchtime. They have different food options, which was great. The menu isn't vast, but it's a cafe, not a full-blown restaurant. The hours that they are opened isn't that long. I believe the cafe closes at 4 pm. Regarding the food, I ordered a sandwich with chips. It wasn't mind-blowing, but the portion size was good. The dessert was good. read more

Not a 5* restaurant, but it is a 5* café. Their homemade pistachio cake is fresh, moist and delicious- it's a "hidden" treasure. I was told all their dessert pastries are made there, except the scones which come from Brooklyn. My very thick tuna sandwich (with lettuce and tomato) was very good, not too much mayo, but our waitress immediately offered to bring more. In previous visits, I've enjoyed their salads. We've eaten inside and outside, depending on the weather. They don't take reservations for the café, only for the tea room, and we both waited on line about five minutes this time, 15 minutes last time (when we were four). Their decaf coffee is at, or below, diner quality. Of course, the atmosphere is one of the best you can find on Long Island because you have an expansive view of the ever improving Bayard Cutting Arboretum with the Connetquot River in the distance. A long walk before or after lunch at this café is a nice combo for a beautiful day (assuming a mostly sunny day between May and October). read more

See all

Good service by friendly staff. The real gem is a seat on the back porch which has a beautiful view of the great lawn and the water. I ordered the wedding soup and a quiche which was very good. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Great lawn view from back of the restaurant. - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

Likes - beautiful view, great english country decoration - selection desserts - nice service Dislike - quiche was ok read more

See all

This is a tough one to rate, simply because the food is average and overpriced at best, but the atmosphere and the outdoor view is beautiful. So if you don't mind mediocre food in exchange for a gorgeous outside view on a beautiful day, I would highly recommend visiting. Especially if you enjoy well-kept, eye-catching walking trails after your meal. Parking is $8, but free for seniors with a driver's license or NYS ID, I believe. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - View of the café. - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

Will return. This lovely cafe is on the ground floor of Westbrook, which was designed for William Bayard Cutting (1850-1912) in 1886, now Bayard Cutting Arboretum, a state park. The guided tour of the house, $20 pp. I'm reading Cooper's The Vanderbilt (2021) at the moment, so decided to go on a sunny Tuesday. Rm w/a Vu ... (Rooms with a view): there are two small dining halls and outdoor seating, looking out to a beautiful lawn and Connetquot River. We choose the inner room which was the library. They give homey good service, fresh food, large portion... and perhaps forget to jack up the price. We've: - smoked salmon sandwich - spring salad - Moroccan madness tea - pistachio cake They provide strainer but utensils are crappy and thin; different tea saucers (ya I always notice such patty details). Some tables have cloth while others are bare glass top, oh well. Many tables are having 'Afternoon Tea' which you need to reserve 24 hours ahead. Ladies on either side of us have tea, all left with big doggie bags ...  It can be pretty noisy when full. read more

See all

This review is for the Victorian tea. Such a wonderful experience! The inside is a beautiful and elegant tea room, or you can eat outside on the huge wraparound porch overlooking the beautiful grounds of the arboretum. For a set price (which includes the tip), you receive unlimited individual loose leaf teapots from a menu of your choice, and can interchange the flavors when you are ready for a new pot. It's great to be able to try all of the different teas. The food comes on a tier, start from the top and work your way down. We did not finish this at all, and were able to take it home. All fresh and delicious. It's a lovely time and something so nice to do with a friend, mom, daughter, or small group. *Make a reservation at least 24hrs in advance. Tell them about any dietary restrictions and they will 100% accommodate you! They did for me (vegetarian) and my mom who didn't like certain ingredients. read more

See all

I love this place! Great service! Our waitress was such an amazing person! She was funny and really nice. The views are spectacular! The fresh air after the pandemic...just ahhh. Breathing feels so good! It is such a great brunch experience! I would just come here for the cafe! I found my meal so tasty. I'm trying to remember the sandwich I had ordered. I know my husband had the curry salad. We both loved our meals. After reading some reviews, I had no idea they offered "afternoon tea" or "Victorian tea" service, yet I am open to try it. I would love to know when that will return. I agree with some folks that it is noisy inside. It's not the place to work from home or hold a zoom meeting. I agree there are some people who are gifted and can project their voices and yes share their latest drama. So now I get to hear the most entertaining conversation today. Lol. I think that is part of the charm of cafes: the crazy conversations that are held even when it's really loud. That's just me. And yes, I recommend it to others if you don't mind some peripheral noise with your tasty meals. read more

We had a lovely time at this cafe yesterday. Our server was friendly and accommodating to us and our child, who is under the age of one. We reserved for the Victorian tea and the experience is truly enjoyable and delightful. Victorian tea is served with tasty sandwiches, pastries and desserts. The tea selection is interesting and they also have decaf. The menu is short, sweet and not complicated Everything is clean and beautifully decorated. The prices are decent. Reservations are needed for the Victorian tea at least 24 hours before. A few suggestions: Tea should be hotter There should more samples of sandwiches on the menu included on the stand to accompany the tea. Scones should be warmed up because they were a bit stiff, but still tasty. We will definitely be coming back for more. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

See all

Enjoyed amazing tea and sandwiches here! Must make a reservation to have tea here. The 3 layered presentation of food included top layer with huge scone, second layer with 3 different sandwiches, and bottom layer with 4 different very sweet desserts... so much food that you do get to take what you could not eat home! They had so many different teas... maybe 25... and as I tried a couple of them I had 2 cups per tea pot. Excellent service! Beautiful historic place to walk around as it is part of the Bayard Cutting Arboretum. read more

See all

Today for my BD my daughter treated me to a delightful Victorian Tea at the Hidden Oak Cafe . What a lovely experience surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the arboretum . We sat outside on the back porch and was served a variety of steeped teas of our choice with scones , finger sandwiches and sweet cakes . Our server Katie was wonderful, so sweet and friendly , she explained everything to us . There are a variety of teas to choose from and you can try as many as you like . My daughter and I loved the Monks Blend tea , which had a hint of cherry flavor followed by the Peach apricot , Jasmine with Flowers which was light and delicate and the Vanilla Cream .We also tried the Moroccan Madness which has a strong peppermint taste . The raisin scones with jam and creamy butter were sensational ! As were each and every finger sandwich . We had hummus with sprouts , mozzarella and roasted peppers, cucumber and dill and turkey with cranberry dressing. After tasting all the teas and enjoying the finger sandwiches we were pretty full so we took our sweet cakes home but did taste their Magic Bar filled with coconut and chocolate chips, so , so very good ! It was a fun and enjoyable afternoon . I highly recommend it whether you are a tea lover or not ! You do have to make reservations in advance . Also they will accommodate you if you are a vegetarian or have any other food requests.It was a reasonable price of $ 37 which included gratuity and tax , it was well worth it for the high quality of the food , atmosphere and service! read more

See all

Cafe at the hidden gem of Long Island - Bayard Cutting Arboretum. Food is very good and reasonably priced. Why go elsewhere when you can have a delicious lunch on the grand porch of the 1886 Manor House. Eat while looking out on the Great Lawn stretching down to the Connetquot River. read more

Like something out of a dream. The appropriately named Hidden Oak Cafe is hidden in the beautiful Bayard Cutting Arboretum. If you're going by car, you'll need to pay a $8 parking fee just to enter the Arboretum, but it is a small price to pay. On a sunny day, the Hidden Oak Cafe becomes a visual marvel, overlooking both the lake and the arboretum, creating a scenic view worth admission alone. Hidden Oak Cafe has a modest menu of lunch staples. Sandwiches, soups, salads, and the like are what you'll expect. Meals will be light, but the portions are huge, giving you ample time to eat at your own pace while enjoying the sounds, smells, and sights of nature. During my last trip, I sampled the Tuna Salad Sandwich, the Smoked Salmon Sandwich, and the seasonal Lobster Bisque. The Lobster Bisque is thick and bursting with creamy lobster flavor, making it hands-down the best lobster soup I've ever had. The tuna salad in the Tuna Salad Sandwich was delicious and piled high, but the overall sandwich was a bit dry and missed some bite. A bit more mayo or other spreadable on the bread and some onions would make it a top tier sandwich. Similarly, the Smoked Salmon Sandwich was bursting with salmon, but needed a bit more flavor. I'd have added some red onions or kippers. While not explicitly on the menu, Hidden Oak Cafe has an extensive tea menu. Nothing tops sitting outdoors, a light meal in front of you while sipping some delicious tea. If they have it in stock, I highly recommend their peach black tea. Hidden Oak Cafe is the ultimate Victorian style lunch spot that will blow you away with delicious food and a wonderous atmosphere. read more

Today we visited Hidden Oak Cafe and I immediately knew I needed to write a review. I can't say enough good things about the entire experience. The entire wait staff was so kind, and attentive. The food was delicious. Our waitress recommended the turkey wrap (turkey, greens and cranberry mayo) with a side of horseradish; it was fresh and delicious. For dessert, we had the pistachio cake; which we thoroughly enjoyed. We were seated outside and the view of the lawn was beautiful. Highly recommend stopping at Hidden Oak Cafe and taking a stroll around the arboretum! read more

WOW. Today was my first visit to the Hidden Oak Cafe. I've always admired it from afar during my Bayard Cutting Arboretum walks. But I had to finally give it a try. I'm vegetarian so I was SO happy to see they had some vegetarian options. I tried the Hummus wrap, and added goat cheese to it. Out comes this huge wrap! They do not skimp on the portions here. I can honestly say it was one of, if not, the best hummus wrap I've ever had. I also ordered a pot of tea. They come out with these beautifully mismatched teacups, with these perfect little tea leaf filters. I went with the Moroccan tea. I wish I would have ordered 2 teapots of it. SO. GOOD. We sat outside (by choice). It was a bit chilly and breezy but it was gorgeous and so relaxing. It looks like the kind of place I'd like to have my wedding at. All I have to do it find someone to marry me! I can't wait to come back again. Thanks! read more

See all

It was nice enough to try once but I don't know if we feel compelled to come back. Rustic vibe but kind of drab. Menu was a bit boring. The grilled cheese sandwich was super basic for the price. The spinach quiche special was very good. Soups were piping hot and a huge portion, but we probably would have preferred a regular sized soup for a more reasonable price. The pistachio cake was fine. Service was satisfactory, but they brought out the hot soups and the sandwiches all at once. I guess we didn't specify we would prefer the soups first. It just seems like the cafe can probably run as a order at the window/counter type place then needing table service. Soda's are from a can, plastic cups etc. read more

Our second visit to this Victorian Style cafe in an old manor house on the grounds of the Bayard Cutting Arboreum in Oakdale, NY.. a truly unique experience on Long Island to be able to sit on a grand porch overlooking g a rolling lawn studded with Adirondack chairs facing the water some 500 feet away. The cafe has a very nice menu of salads and sandwiches, soft drinks and tea/coffee. Inside I saw ornate tea cups while out on the porch it's to go cups. The porch can be very chilly and breezy depending on the weather, Lee and I always prefer outdoor seating, especially with a view, so was know to bring a jacket. In general, on a brisk day it's even cooler here on the open water. My advise would be to arrive early or late and the seating process is not exactly swift... be patient as the food and and setting is worth the unique time to sit back and relax. The Arboretum itself is absolutely magical.. follow the path around to the Cornell Lab area to see gorgeous chickens and meander around the grounds and river, look up now and then to catch an Osprey nest or Eagles nesting. We love it here, they accept the Empire Pass or for NYS residents over age 62, the park is free M-F with a drivers license. Otherwise, parking for the park is 8.00, unsure about the restaurant alone. read more

Fantastic crumb cake. Arrived with my mom, grandma and daughter. It was so crowded in the cafe area that we decided to take our food to go and enjoy it looking at the beautiful scenery of Bayard. Can't wait to come back and try the Victorian Tea. read more

A hefty slice of pistachio cake and a pot of vanilla tea - that's what life is all about. I love relaxing at this cafe hidden in one of the most beautiful arboretums on Long Island. Whether solo or in a group, you'd thoroughly enjoy indulging on the many goodies at the Hidden Oak Cafe. read more

We came here to grab a quick snack while visiting the Bayard Cutting Arboretum. The café is located inside the mansion, and you can walk around and look at all the antique décor. There's also a nice outdoor patio where you can relax and watch the beautiful view. We had the Kahlua cake and the Caramel Apple cake. They were really delicious and I'm glad that we ordered both instead of settling for one. The coffee was good too. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

See all

Hidden Oak Café is a hidden gem on the south shore. Their location is picture perfect, with seating inside the historic house or on the patio overlooking the lawn straight down to the water. Everything I've ate or drank here is nothing short of perfect. I usually drink my coffee black, so I can tell pretty quickly the quality of it. Their coffee here is delicious. I've also tried their hot chocolate in the winter and it's so creamy and rich. I've only tried one or two of their teas and need to come back for more. For a long time I drooled over their desserts but didn't see any gluten free options. Yesterday I noticed a gluten free treat and it was nothing short of spectacular. I wish I bought more to bring home. I also noticed they have gluten free bread (according to the employee they had it for ~1 year now so I'm a little late to the game on this one). I can't wait to go for lunch one day and give their sandwiches a shot. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Looked better before traveling for a half hour, but it was DELICIOUS. - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

A hidden gem. We came here back in September. After a beautiful walk through the arboretum we came here for lunch. The service was understaffed but still good. Despite them clearly being very busy, they were friendly and professional. I remember eating a salad and having a piece of pie. Both were great. However, I also remember being a little let down from the lack of choices on the menu for someone that doesn't eat pork. I also wasn't in the mood for tuna. Overall though, everyone enjoyed their meal. The desserts were very impressive. I'd definitely come back! read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Blueberry pie - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

See all

We enjoyed our lunch on the back porch. High recommend to eat outside on the porch- the view of the water and gardens is pretty special! We had the daily quiche, Greek salad, tuna salad and summer salad. Couldn't leave without some bakery items- scones and Kailua cake . Everything was reasonably priced and well made. Looking forward to another opportunity to visit again. read more

Excellent ambiance, although entrance to the park and parking is not the greatest (long line to get in and limited parking). Once inside the restaurant, we were able to sit outside with a view of the park and lake. Service is excellent, wait staff is very attentive and friendly. Unusual for NY, lol. Although Food is limited to sandwiches, they are extremely good offers various varieties. Tea selection is excellent. read more

Had the best time with my family! Loved the food and experience. My grandmother in law and mother in law were so happy. Everything was delicious! read more

Highly highly recommend the Victorian tea here which you have to book 24 hours in advance. So good and so worth it. I don't think many other places do it on Long Island, and you can walk around the arboretum before/after. They have an amazing tea selection and the scones are to die for. read more

See all

We came here guided by other helpers. What a mistake. The blandest, no flavor whatsoever, soup and sandwiches I've ever had. Butternut squash and apple soup tasted Like boiled and puréed butternut squash. Curried chicken salad, dry white meat with mayo and some curry flavor sprinkled on on a cold limp tasteless baguette. Cappuccino totally watered down with no coffee flavor. The truth, does this restaurant have a flavor zapper machine in the kitchen? Seriously tastes like premade food. Not good people, just not good. read more

The park itself is a pretty awesome experience and can be enjoyed by the masses. The cafe is quaint, quiet and an interesting experience. I the teas and incredible and so are the pastries. I particularly loved the pistachio cake. Definitely a sweet time if you've always wanted to tea time with family or friends as everything is served with tea cups, saucers, etc. read more

I decided to stop in for food after my walk. It was much bigger than I thought. I sat outside and my waitress was very nice and attentive. I had the BLT which was excellent. My coffee was also pretty good. Great view outside and very nice inside. I definitely want to come back to try the Victorian tea spread ! read more

The Hidden Oak Cafe is a gem of a place nestled in the Bayard Cutting mansion at the Arboretum of the same name. We enjoyed the curry chicken sandwich and the roasted red pepper wrap. They were both fresh and flavorful. Our waitress was attentive and personable. As a tea drinker I love the expansive assortment of teas offered. My husband prefers coffee; it was a rich flavorful blend. And then there are the desserts! We highly recommend making time to visit, sit on either the outdoor veranda or in the historic dining room and stroll through the gardens. read more

Update 2018... I have been to Hidden Oak Cafe for The Afternoon Tea Service a total of 3 times (once during a bridal shower). The service was impeccable during my last visit, I absolutely LOVE the food & tea, and think that my last visit was truly flawless!! Great Job Hidden Oak, can't wait to come again. read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Tea Menu for the Victorian Tea - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York

See all

Came back again and it was much less crowded than the last time I came, and was able to sit inside. I got the same thing I got last time and also an orange cranberry cookie and a hot apple cider, both of which were amazing! The cookie was very fresh, and the apple cider was very hot and fresh as well. I am very impressed with this place. It's in an amazing location and the food is good too. When I go back to the arboretum I will definitely come back, and I recommend that everyone check it out too. Thanks again! read more

Hidden Oak Cafe - Butternut Squash with Apple Soup, Grilled Cheese with Chips and Raisin Scone - Desserts Near Me - Great River, New York