The Russian Tea Room is one of the landmark restaurants of New York. It began life in 1926 when members of the Russian Imperial Ballet, who had fled to America after the Russian Revolution, needed a place where the members of the troupe could socialize and meet with other Russian emigres. Today the interior of the restaurant is like a Christmas tree, decorated in green, red, and gold, with a collection of fascinating Russian art and objects. The Russian Tea Room is still a favorite meeting place for people of the theatre. Kebabs are one of the specialties of the restaurant.