2001
3
$795,000
$35,000
$134,000
No
Alice's Tea Cup is a charming, whimsical tea room that transports guests into a world inspired by Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland. Founded in 2001 by sisters Haley and Lauren Fox in New York City, the establishment quickly became a beloved destination, known for its enchanting decor, fairy dust rituals, and a menu brimming with freshly brewed teas, scones, and tiered tea sandwiches.
The franchise offers a unique blend of nostalgia and culinary delight, making it an ideal setting for family gatherings, bridal showers, and casual tea parties. With its focus on quality ingredients and a magical atmosphere, Alice's Tea Cup has cultivated a loyal following and is poised for expansion across the United States.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Themed Experience: An immersive "Alice in Wonderland" ambiance that appeals to all ages.
Diverse Menu: A wide selection of over 100 teas, gourmet scones, and light fare.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Interactive elements like fairy dusting create memorable experiences.
Established Brand: A recognized name in New York City with a strong local following.
Online Retail: Sales of proprietary teas and merchandise enhance revenue streams.
Growing Tea Culture: Increasing interest in specialty teas and afternoon tea experiences.
Health-Conscious Dining: A shift towards healthier, lighter dining options aligns with Alice's menu offerings.
Experiential Dining: Consumers seek unique dining experiences, making themed restaurants appealing.
With the recent acquisition by a new ownership group, Alice's Tea Cup is poised for expansion beyond its current New York City locations. The brand's strong local presence and unique concept position it well for franchising opportunities across the United States. Franchisees can capitalize on the growing demand for specialty tea experiences and the brand's established reputation.
Established Year: 2001
Current Franchise Units: As of August 2025, Alice’s Tea Cup operates three company-owned locations in New York City:
Chapter I – 102 West 73rd Street, Upper West Side
Chapter II – 156 East 64th Street, Upper East Side
To-Go Spot – 43 Hicks Street, Brooklyn Heights
The brand began franchising in 2016 and is actively seeking expansion across the United States. While no specific number of franchise units is publicly reported, the company is accepting new franchisees for both restaurant and kiosk formats.
Founders: Lauren and Haley Fox
Ownership: In July 2024, the original founders sold the business to a new ownership group led by Jeni He. Despite facing financial challenges, including a $230,000 debt primarily owed to the Small Business Administration, the new ownership is committed to maintaining the brand's core concepts and expanding its presence beyond the current locations.
Industry Category: Specialty Tea House / Themed Café
Market Presence in the USA: Currently, all locations are in New York City, with plans for national expansion.
Company History: Alice’s Tea Cup began as a dream to create a whimsical, health-conscious tea room inspired by "Alice in Wonderland." Over the years, it has become a beloved destination for tea enthusiasts and families, offering a unique experience with a wide assortment of teas and freshly made menu items.
Franchise Opportunity: The company is actively seeking new franchisees to expand the brand's presence. Prospective franchisees can learn more or begin the
application process on the official Alice’s Tea Cup Franchising page.
Alice's Tea Cup offers comprehensive support to franchisees, including:
Pre-Launch Assistance: Site selection, lease negotiation, and store design tailored to the brand's aesthetic.
Operational Training: In-depth training covering kitchen operations, tea preparation, and customer service standards.
Marketing Support: Access to branded materials, promotional strategies, and guidance on local marketing initiatives.
Ongoing Assistance: Regular operational reviews, staff training updates, and continuous support to ensure brand consistency and success.
The ideal franchisee for Alice's Tea Cup:
Passion for Hospitality: A genuine love for providing exceptional customer experiences.
Business Acumen: Experience in retail or foodservice management is advantageous.
Community Engagement: Ability to connect with the local community and build a loyal customer base.
Investment Capability: Adequate capital to meet the financial requirements and sustain operations.
Location Preference: Interest in establishing a location in a community with a strong affinity for unique dining experiences.
| Investment Category | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment Required | $134,000 |
| Maximum Investment Required | $795,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Estimated Infrastructure Cost | $100,000 – $300,000 |
| Marketing Budget | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of Gross Revenue |
| Advertising Fees | 2% of Gross Revenue |
| Break-even Time | 18 – 24 months |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% annually |
