Get Kate Middleton Vibes with Afternoon Tea at Connect Lounge, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila
Who doesn’t want to feel like a Princess, even just for a few hours? Unfortunately, not everyone can be Royal. Don’t worry, there’s a way to enjoy the same luxuries that the Royals are envied for, even while living in the middle of a bustling Asian metropolis like Manila.
Introducing, Afternoon Tea at the Connect Lounge of the Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas Center, Metro Manila. The lounge is at the 24th floor of the building. Luckily, the hotel’s location on the edges of the business district allows it to have sweeping views of the city without being obstructed by the skyscrapers on the other side.
I know that the tradition of having afternoon tea is distinctly British and not restricted to members of the Royal Family. However, the tradition was indeed popularized by Royals and other high society types. So, forgive my flight of fancy when I say that sitting for tea and a plate of scones makes me feel like a princess.
For only Php 788.00, you and your chosen companion can enjoy tea or coffee alongside an elegant three-tiered stand filled with a selection of mini cakes, sandwiches and classic English scones served with jam and clotted cream. You can choose from their wide selection of tea varieties:
If like me, you need a refreshing cold drink to escape the stifling heat of the city, there is an option to upgrade. You can choose to have a glass of champagne, a smoothie or iced tea.
I chose to go for the hotel’s signature Earl Grape Iced Tea. It’s an elegant drink made out of earl grey tea, elderflower syrup and garnished with seedless green grapes.
There’s nothing plain or simple about the selection of snacks either. The tea set comes with an assortment of bruschetta made out of colorful flavored baguettes. They are baked in-house and flavored with parsley (green), tomato (red), plain, squid ink (black) and corn (yellow):
These beautiful baguettes are cut up into rounds and topped with ham, salami, shrimps, salmon and fresh greens. these may seem small but they don’t scrimp on the toppings. You’ll find that it’s quite substantial for two people.
Boring cucumber sandwiches are a thing of the past when you come to the Connect Lounge for afternoon tea. Apart from the colourful baguettes, there’s also a selection of freshly baked pastries. I particularly enjoyed the sausage rolls. I’m never one to say no to anything that’s made out of puff pastry.
Of course, afternoon tea isn’t complete without an assortment of sweet treats. We had strawberry cheesecake, a chocolate tart as well as strawberry and chocolate mousse. The grand finale was a decadent, warm lava cake. What a strong finish!
Here’s the elegant presentation in a modern, three-tiered stand:
It’s a veritable feast for the senses. The rich colors of the cakes and pastries and the muted tones of the tea and surroundings makes for a wonderful setting for a nice, relaxing afternoon. Here’s another look at the amazing spread:
Afternoon Tea at Connect Lounge is available from 2:00PM-6:00PM daily for Php 788.00 (good for two).
Read Also: Unlimited Wine and Appetizer Buffet at Vu’s Sky Bar Marco Polo Ortigas Manila
Connect Lounge is at the 24th floor of the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila along Meralco Ave., Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
They also serve an extensive menu of food and drinks if you wish to visit during other meal times. Check out the full menu and bar list on Zomato: