Europeans have been in on the secret for years: Tea and business mix rather well. Talk of quarterly profits simply flows more smoothly with a cup of fragrant Earl Grey or smoky Lapsong Souchong, and an array of savory finger sandwiches and dainty, buttery pastries.

At last, the British-inspired ritual has caught on among American business people, who are leaving their boardrooms behind in exchange for the comforts of tearooms like Gotham Lounge in The Peninsula New York.

At Gotham Lounge, patrons of all stripes (including the briefcase-toting sort) indulge in classically delicate sandwiches like smoked chicken and asparagus, and luscious sweets like Devonshire cream-slathered scones and mini fruit tartlets. The timing (mid-business day, 2:30 to 5:00 p.m.) is ideal, and the price ($35/person, or $47 with a glass of Brut champagne) is just right.