Inspired by fond memories of her mother, Chef Margarita Forés launches an elegant and sumptuous afternoon tea service at Lusso.
“I’ve always wanted to serve a proper afternoon tea at Lusso,” Margarita Forés, chef patron and owner of Lusso, declares. “Afternoon tea conjures memories of my mother and I sitting in the lobby of The Peninsula in Hong Kong, leisurely sipping tea and eating perfectly sliced sandwiches and bite-sized cakes and pastries while enjoying the sights and sounds of the bustling lobby.”
To celebrate her mother Baby Araneta-Forés’s birthday, Afternoon Tea will be offered at both Lusso by Margarita Forés in Greenbelt and Rockwell. Afternoon tea service at Lusso represents Margarita’s long-cherished desire, featuring her unique take on this timeless tradition.
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Afternoon tea is a British tradition that blends elegance and indulgence, creating a social occasion and a moment of relaxation that evokes a sense of refinement and leisure. This quintessentially British practice has captivated people worldwide with its elegance and leisurely pace. This ritual began in the early 19th century and is often credited to the Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Russell. She started having a pot of tea and a light snack, such as bread and butter, due to the long gap between lunch and dinner. Although her role as the originator of afternoon tea is debated, her practice soon became a social event, fostering a sense of community.
By the late 19th century, afternoon tea had spread among Britain’s upper and middle classes. It featured delicate sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, and tea. This period also saw the rise of tea rooms and gardens, making the tradition more accessible to a broader audience. These establishments provided a venue for people, especially women, to socialize outside the home in a respectable setting.
Today, afternoon tea remains a beloved tradition around the world. It has evolved to include various teas and an expanded menu featuring international influences. High-end hotels and restaurants frequently offer luxurious afternoon tea experiences with champagne and exotic ingredients. The essence of afternoon tea — a time to relax, enjoy good company, and indulge in delicious treats — remains unchanged.
Service begins with tea freshly brewed from classic to exotic herbal blends. It is followed by scones served with clotted cream and jam, a selection of finger sandwiches, and an assortment of pastries and cakes. These are served on Lusso afternoon tea trays, elegantly arranged across three tiers. Each level is designed to balance savory and sweet, creating a well-rounded and delightful experience.
The journey starts at the bottom tier with classic scones. Freshly baked, Lusso scones come with clotted cream, strawberry jam, and unsalted French butter, adding a rich and sweet contrast to their tender crumb. They are a perfect beginning to an afternoon tea experience. In Devon, the scones are split in two and topped with cream followed by jam, while in Cornwall scones are topped with jam and then cream.
The next level features a selection of savory delights. The finger sandwiches include delectable fillings such as goat cheese and cucumber; deviled egg and watercress; tuna with homemade mayonnaise and potato crisps; and pancetta, lettuce, and tomato. These bite-sized sandwiches provide a satisfyingly savory experience.
The top tier is a sweet finale. It features an array of desserts, including a mocha sans rival, pecorino cheesecake with fresh strawberries, strawberry Prosecco tiramisù, and a trio of fruit tarts finished with whipped cream.
Margarita shares “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, these are perfect occasions for our Afternoon Tea at Lusso.”
Afternoon tea will be served at Lusso Greenbelt 5 and Lusso Balmori Suites, Monday to Friday, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. For reservations, please call Lusso Greenbelt at +63 0917 700 5893 or Lusso Balmori Suites at +63 0917 180 5893.
Photos courtesy of Lusso.
