Typically, Thursdays are one of the busiest days of our week, but not this one. Dressed casually with my newly designed red dress, friends and social colleagues are gathered together, for an afternoon of tit and tat, thanks to our gracious host – the Connect Lounge at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila.
It’s been a good year for us with Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, as they recently gained their 5-star ratings from Forbes Travel Guide for the 2nd year, beating the other players in the industry, and this celebration continues.
For the ladies who know how to juggle career, social and family life – nothing makes sit more relaxing than having an afternoon tea with your friends. If you are a fan of Downton Abbey, or maybe Marie Antoinette, then you would understand the language of high tea.
And remember the main rule: Never dunk your biscuits/scones in your tea.
But for us urban women, a new rule must apply – we should stay away with our phones and have a really lovely conversation over tea.
Okay, I am guilty of this, so I digress.
Truly, I sometimes fancy being in a Paris café and partake in tasting many cakes and desserts or be in the best restaurant in Shanghai to taste their best dim sum in town. But why linger that feeling if Connect Lounge can take me there?
Served in a 3 tier stand, guests can enjoy a wide array of selections such as cakes and mini sandwiches, with coffee or tea. Drinks can opt for an upgrade to a glass of champagne, smoothie, or iced tea. Witness an open kitchen in the bar counter where all food items will be set up and guests can request their preferred taste. This sanctuary comes with a relaxing view of the East, which will surely make catching up with friends even more enjoyable.
Marco Polo Asian set with Steamed Dim Sums, Vegetable Dumpling, and Prawn Ha Kaw, or have it baked or fried with Shrimp and Vegetable Spring Rolls, Char Siew Chicken Egg Tart, and the all-time favorite Flaky Sweet Pork Bun.
Marco Polo Traditional English set featuring a wide array of healthy sandwiches - Smoked Salmon Finger Sandwich, Cucumber and Egg Mayonnaise Finger Sandwich, Open-faced Tomato and Mozarella Sandwich, and Open-faced Ham and Mango Relish Sandwich
The Tea-Etiquette
Afternoon tea service is a great British tradition that is laced with rules. For those of us who didn’t grow up with a spot as part of our regular schedule, it can certainly get confusing.
Well aside from What You Must Wear for the Afternoon Tea Party!
So to avoid some confusion, I’ve taken the liberty to dig some of these tips to help you be guided when you are invited for a relaxed afternoon tea.
First, learn the proper terminology. Do take note that not all teas are created equal.
“Afternoon tea” is typically a social affair intended to help fill the gap between lunch and dinner. And “high tea” which is often confused as an afternoon tea – was originally a more substantial evening meal with a savory dish or two consumes by the working classes after a long day at work. To complicate matters further, “cream tea” is a variation of afternoon tea that includes scones, cream, jam, and tea.
Ready to enjoy a pot of tea?
Afternoon tea service is a great British tradition that is laced with rules. For those of us who didn’t grow up with a spot as part of our regular schedule, it can certainly get confusing.
Well aside from What You Must Wear for the Afternoon Tea Party!
So to avoid some confusion, I’ve taken the liberty to dig some of these tips to help you be guided when you are invited for a relaxed afternoon tea.
First, learn the proper terminology. Do take note that not all teas are created equal.
“Afternoon tea” is typically a social affair intended to help fill the gap between lunch and dinner. And “high tea” which is often confused as an afternoon tea – was originally a more substantial evening meal with a savory dish or two consumes by the working classes after a long day at work. To complicate matters further, “cream tea” is a variation of afternoon tea that includes scones, cream, jam, and tea.
Ready to enjoy a pot of tea?
The Dos:
1. Do use clotted cream, preferably Cornish style, under the jam. Both the Cornish and Devonshire people lay claim to the invention of the cream tea and each has a view on the order of the toppings. The Devon tradition is cream first with jam spread on top, while the Cornish tradition is to slather the jam on top it off with clotted cream.
2. Always use loose tea. It tastes so much better.
3. Do let the tea steep as long as you like. If it is not to your taste, ask for a fresh pot. Tea should be replenished regularly.
4. Feel free to request different milk.
5. Do stir the tea delicately. If cracks appear in the fine china, perhaps you have been a dash overzealous.
6. Eat the finger sandwiches with your hands. They are designed for and named after their purpose. Cakes tend to be more delicate and require at least a fork. A scone with cream and jam needs a guiding hand.
7. Do enjoy at a leisurely pace. Afternoon tea is made to enjoy, so do not in a hurry.
1. Do use clotted cream, preferably Cornish style, under the jam. Both the Cornish and Devonshire people lay claim to the invention of the cream tea and each has a view on the order of the toppings. The Devon tradition is cream first with jam spread on top, while the Cornish tradition is to slather the jam on top it off with clotted cream.
2. Always use loose tea. It tastes so much better.
3. Do let the tea steep as long as you like. If it is not to your taste, ask for a fresh pot. Tea should be replenished regularly.
4. Feel free to request different milk.
5. Do stir the tea delicately. If cracks appear in the fine china, perhaps you have been a dash overzealous.
6. Eat the finger sandwiches with your hands. They are designed for and named after their purpose. Cakes tend to be more delicate and require at least a fork. A scone with cream and jam needs a guiding hand.
7. Do enjoy at a leisurely pace. Afternoon tea is made to enjoy, so do not in a hurry.
1. Don’t add the milk first. Milk should be added after the tea so you can properly gauge how much you need to balance the strength of the brew. Though this is one of the most hotly debated of all the tea-related enigmas!
2. Don’t forget the strainer over your cup.
3. Don’t serve white tea, green tea, and infusions with milk. Black tea, however, is suitable with milk.
4. Don’t extend your pinky finger. It’s tacky.
5. Don’t pronounce the long “o” in “scone.” It is properly pronounced as “scon.”
6. Don’t dunk your biscuits.
7. Don’t plan a big dinner afterward. You will likely regret it.
8. Don’t wear sportswear or sneakers
9. Afternoon tea is a much more relaxed affair these days, but you should still look smart, or lady-like.
Connect Lounge serves an Afternoon Tea with its wide array of choices ranging from delights for those who have a sweet tooth, to fresh sandwiches with colorful baguettes for bread lovers. Catch up with friends with these savories over coffee or tea, the perfect drinks to have with good company.
Located at the 24th-floor sky lobby, Connect Lounge is one of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s signature outlets, which continues to innovate its offerings to guests. From coffee to wines, the lounge also has menus for small items that bring a luxury feel every time a guest dines. Wait for the check-in or out, or chitchat with old friends over good drinks, Connect Lounge brings the finest selections of food and beverage.
Enjoy an afternoon tea in high style at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s Connect Lounge, from 2:00PM to 5:00PM on Mondays through Fridays, and from 2:00Pm to 6:00PM on Saturdays and Sundays at Php 888, for two persons.
To know more about the hotel, visit www.marcopolohotels.com. Follow the Hotel in Facebook at facebook.com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila or @MarcoPoloManila on Twitter or Instagram.
Comes and let’s have tea!
xoxo, Blair
This fusion East-west tea-time menu looks interesting. It's incidentally tea time right here in Malaysia and I am hungry already just looking at this luxurious meal!!
ReplyDeleteOh you must enjoy every moment of it Emily :D
Deletei love these kind of hang out! and those high tea set looks really delish!
ReplyDeleteI agree, they are so delicious I ate a lot, and have not took my dinner, LOL
DeleteThe place look so peacefull and nice for us to relax and cat with friends
ReplyDeleteI agree, and the view of the Manila is gorgeous!
DeleteAll of the menu nyummy!!! Now I am hungry after look your delicious pic of menu.
ReplyDeleteHahaha thanks babe!
DeleteI love high tea! I haven't had swans like those pastries since 2013 in the Grand Floridian tea room! I'm so glad you had a delicious time!
ReplyDeleteI am actually having hesitation at first to eat those swan pastries coz they are too cute!
DeleteSo many new things I need to come check out in the Philippines! I love high tea. Looks so fun and elegant!
ReplyDeleteLAKATWOMAN.com
Their pastries are also excellent!
DeleteI love taking a afternoon and enjoying high tea. Dunking is a big no no.
ReplyDeleteHahaha so true! I can only do dunking of cookies and bread with my coffee during breakfast! My old folks do that and its enjoyable but only when we eat at home.
DeleteI wish more people did this every day. I love a good leisurely tea. Everyone is in a hurry now.
ReplyDeleteI agree! They all in a hurry, and what they do not realized is that they are missing the little things that are fun and enjoyable. I like fast services, but not all.
DeleteThe food looks delicious! And i really like your pictures and how you describe your experience. And the layout of your website is amazing!
ReplyDeleteOooh I love their cake trays! They are quite different! Looks lovely there!
ReplyDeletedeb
www.bookinspiredplay.com
It is nice to take our time and enjoy every seconds of it. I will definitely coming back!
DeleteMilk should be added after the tea... Interesting! Still can get to learn about drinking tea. Lolz
ReplyDeleteRacheal
You'll get used to it Racheal :D
DeleteThat is the English tea etiquette. But for us Asians, we do have our own way. I will make an article soon!
I absolutely love going to high tea with my girlfriends. Your outfit is super cute on you, and the spread is so beautiful!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Annie
Thank you Annie! This dress is one of my latest creation :D
DeleteThose sandwiches look wonderful. I'd love to try this out. I love the fact that you addressed the dress code, something that is often overlooked in reviews. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI know right!
DeleteWell I've seen many faux pas, and I always try my best to dress-up for the occasion. It is my way of giving respect to the host.
I'm British now living in the U.S and still love my afternoon tea but unforchantly I break every rule LOL. iF at one of the fancy places though I practice good etiquette
ReplyDeleteHello Tina,
DeleteGlad you are a fan of high tea. Yeah no one is perfect (unless we are a member of royal family which is expected) but at least we don't commit more faux pas.
I always love great places to hang out with good food. And I love the tips on tea etiquette.
ReplyDeleteThank you Cornelius!
DeleteI love going to high tea! I try to go to one tea spot in each city I visit. The spread at Marco Polo Ortiga's looks phenomenal.
ReplyDeleteThank you Michele. And Marco Polo's high tea is unique combining the popular pastries and finger foods from east and west.
DeleteI love Marco Polo Ortigas! It’s one of my favorite hotel chains. Afternoon tea is definitely a must! I hope you can tag me along next time.
ReplyDeleteHello Emmanuel,
DeleteYes sure, I'll ask the PR team :D
The high tea experience looks so lush! I personally love high teas so will definitely head to Marco Polo Ortigas when I visit Manila
ReplyDeleteThat will be great! Let me know when you are here in Manila :D
DeleteThat place looks beautiful and the food looks amazing. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYou're always welcome Kim!
DeleteI've been to Marco Polo a few times but mostly we dine at Cucina and Vu's Skybar and Lounge. I was not aware really of what the Connect Lounge offer. I might have a staycation there this year I'm gonna check it out.
ReplyDeleteThank is fantastic Roselle! I bet you will enjoy Connect Lounge as well.
DeleteHave never done a high tea. Sounds like such a fun thing to do with girlfriends. Love the no dunking rule haha. Super cute dress too!
ReplyDeleteYou should try it Steph!
DeleteIt looks like you had a lovely time. The tea room looks really relaxing and chic.
ReplyDeleteI like their jasmine tea. It is very soothing :D
DeleteI'm drooling over those pastries! And I miss Manila! Be safe on your travels! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you KC!
DeleteYou should travel here in Manila soon! You've been missing a lot, babe.
Good tips on the Do's and Dont's. Wish I could have a relaxing afternoon tea like you.
ReplyDeleteIf you can't have it in your favorite hotel, you can have it at home in you little quiet place.
DeleteI love high tea time. This place looks divine. xo, Suzanne
ReplyDeleteThank you Suzanne! What is your favorite tea?
DeleteI have not been able to have high tea yet, but I REALLY want to! Your pictures juts make me want it more! It is so lovely and tasty looking. *heart eyes*
ReplyDeleteThank you! Hope next time they will have a wine-tasting event. I would be so thrilled to join if there's any :D
DeleteWhen I go visit Manila again, I will definitely have to check this place out! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYou are always welcome here Katriza :D
DeleteI didn't know there are so much to consider for an afternoon tea. haha. But I learned so much and loves reading this.
ReplyDeleteThank you for visiting Hannah. I am happy that you pick-up something :D
DeleteThis place is beautiful! Would love to have more hang out areas like this near me!
ReplyDeleteThat will be great, share it with us soon!
DeleteThose high tea set looks yummy and pretty! How I wish I can travel to Manila.
ReplyDeleteYou'll gonna enjoy it here!
DeleteLooks like a great place!! Their food looks very delicious too!
ReplyDeleteThe hightea set looks amazing and yummy! I would want to go for some high tea session too, to chill and chit chat with friends =)
ReplyDeleteinvite your girlfriends and organize a fabulous tea party!
DeleteGreat review. Definitely would love to visit this place when I go back to the Philippines for a vacation.
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a lovely place. Very chic! The food also looks really good. I've always wanted to try a place that had 'tea service'.
ReplyDeleteHaving a tea service makes everything luxe, right? :D
DeleteI've learned a lot of things in my time. But I never learned "Tea Etiquette" which surprising because tea is what I drink more than anything. This was an interesting post, the pastries looked amazing. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome dear!
DeleteI will also share the Asian tea etiquette soon!
This looks like such a cool tea. I know that my daughter would really love this. I would actually love this. All the food looks amazing and it sounds like it would be so fun.
ReplyDeleteI can't deny how pretty they presented these pastries and dim sums!
DeleteThere is definitely nothing more relaxing then going out to a place like this with friends. The food looks like it is so delicious.
ReplyDeleteThank you Bobbi!
DeleteThose pastries look so delish! I love how relaxing everything seems at this place.
ReplyDeleteThank you Cassandra :D
Delete