Unwind With Free-Flowing Pastries, Rose Wine + More at Grand Hyatt’s Euro-Filipino Afternoon Tea
(SPOT.ph) We know, we know; modern life has us thinking about work and other commitments 25 hours a day and a bajillion days a week, that the thought of pausing in the afternoon for nibbles and a soothing sip has become somewhat of a luxury. But when you do find the freedom—say, this coming weekend—it’s worth taking the time to recharge, and maybe have a go at a classic afternoon tea sesh from one of Manila’s best-known hotels. Here’s one you don’t want to miss, especially if European and Filipino flavors are your cup of, erm, tea: Grand Hyatt Manila’s launching Merienda Cena, their take on afternoon tea taken out for a Filipino-inspired spin that’ll be available every weekend.
Here’s what to try from Grand Hyatt Manila’s hotel buffet on weekend afternoons:
Launching tomorrow, June 17, and available from Fridays to Sundays from 2:30 to 6 p.m., Grand Hyatt Manila’s Merienda Cena (P1,500 net) is the hotel’s take on afternoon tea—the traditional ritual that hails from England—as it features sweet and savory nibbles along with tea and coffee, and you have the option to upgrade to have free-flowing rosé (P1,950 net) to the mix, too. Grand Hyatt’s stands out from the many other versions of afternoon tea available locally; for starters, the food is laid out buffet-style—help yourself to seconds, thirds, and so on, though be mindful to minimize leftovers. Better yet, the menu, courtesy of executive chef Mark Hagan and pastry chef Nicolas Vergnole—ingeniously fuses Filipino elements into European high-tea favorites, with sumptuous results.
You can start off savory with Grand Hyatt’s open-faced sandwiches, with topping combos that include the Lechon Sisig with confit egg yolk and liver pâté, Beef Salpicao with garlic puree and potato strings, and even Pickled Milk Fish cured in beetroot along with sourcream horseradish and atsara. Love seafood? Grand Hyatt’s crafted up light yet flavorful concoctions that include the Tuna Ceviche “Kinilaw na Tuna” with spiced vinegar and crushed pork crackling, and the Shrimp Cocktail with a maria rose sauce—both served in cocktail glasses.
Scones, of course, are an afternoon-tea classic and Grand Hyatt bakes up great versions that are rightfully buttery and tender, served with clotted cream and fruit preserves. Go ahead, treat yourself to a piece or two to pair with your choice of tea (their lineup includes loose-leaf blends and herbal teas!) or coffee (they’ve got classic drinks that include the Americano, Flat White, and more). Should you upgrade to the free-flowing rosé option, your choices include the Sangria Lolea Rosé No.5 and Camille de Labrie Rosé Vin de France—both springy sips that go with the Baked Brie Pithiviers stuffed with brie cheese, red onion, and cranberry.
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