MANILA, Philippines – “I’ve always wanted to serve a proper afternoon tea at Lusso,” said Chef Margarita Forés, inspired by cherished memories with her mother at the lobby of The Peninsula, Hong Kong.
“I remember leisurely sipping tea and eating perfectly sliced sandwiches and bite-sized cakes and pastries while enjoying the sights and sounds of the bustling lobby,” she said.
Forés has brought her dream to life at Lusso’s two branches in Balmori Suites, Rockwell, and Greenbelt 5, Makati City. Lusso launched the Afternoon Tea set last July 28, to celebrate the birthday of Forés’ mother Baby Araneta-Forés, through an intimate and elegant dining and social experience that merges Forés’ nostalgia with British tradition.
A tea-riffic time
Lusso’s Rockwell branch offers an intimate setting, reminiscent of a dainty yet lavish home, adorned with golden accents, white floor curtains, and plush sofas; perfect for an afternoon of “spilling the tea” with a friend or treating your mother to a surprise. The relaxed atmosphere — and small size — make the branch comfortable for just a few guests at a time.
The attentive service adds to the refined experience. Lusso’s waiters will serve you your choice of fine-quality teas in a ceramic pot alongside a timer to ensure perfect steeping.
Afternoon tea originated in the early 19th century, introduced by the Duchess of Bedford to curb hunger between lunch and dinner – similar to the Pinoy merienda. The British tradition soon became a social occasion, pairing delicate sandwiches, scones, and pastries with fine tea.
Lusso’s Afternoon Tea is served in three tiers: scones, sandwiches, and pastries. The freshly baked scones are among the best I’ve had — soft, buttery, and slightly dense, with a delicate sweetness from a sprinkle of sugar. Paired with clotted cream, strawberry jam, and unsalted French butter, they melt in your mouth and set the stage for the savory and sweet treats that follow.
“I wanted to recreate the perfect afternoon tea with all the little details that make it indulgent,” Asia’s Best Female Chef for 2016 said.
The middle tier features savory bite-sized sandwiches, starting with the light and refreshing Pan De Mie made from cucumber and goat cheese, and the Tuna and French Butter with potato crisps inside to add a subtle crunch.
The Egg Salad with deviled egg and watercress provides mild flavors, while the PLT — artisanal pancetta, lettuce, and tomato — takes the spotlight with its salty pancetta balanced by creamy mayo and toasted buttered bread.
The top tier delivers a sweet finale, featuring Mocha Sans Rival, Pecorino Cheesecake, Strawberry Prosecco Tiramisu, and pecan tarts. The moist Strawberry Tiramisu is a must for strawberry lovers, and the Sans Rival is more for chocoholics. The Pecorino Cheesecake offers a savory richness.
“I created Lusso as a jewel box fashioned by my childhood memories. Whether it’s a mother-son, mother-daughter, father-son, or father-daughter date, a gathering for family and friends, ladies who lunch, or merienda…afternoon tea is a moment to relax and indulge. It’s the perfect occasion to reconnect over a meal,” shared Cibo’s founder.
Lusso’s Afternoon Tea is priced at P1,550+ for one guest and P2,950+ for two, with champagne available at an additional cost. It is offered daily from 2 pm to 5 pm.
For reservations, you can check out Lusso’s Instagram. – Rappler.com