I recently had the chance to try Raffles Makati’s “Heritage Afternoon Tea” at The Writers Bar, and it was quite the treat! At 3,200 PHP for two, it’s not exactly something one would splurge on every weekend. But is it worth it? In my book, yes. The whole experience was a delicious blend of elegance and indulgence, though I’ll admit, there was a little snag with bike parking that threw me off for a moment.
A Nod to the Past
Walking into The Writers Bar kind of feels like stepping into a different era. You know that cozy yet classy vibe you get from old movies? That’s it. The “Heritage Afternoon Tea” draws inspiration from Raffles Hotels’ tradition, dating back to the early 1900s. The name of the bar is even a tribute to literary greats (like W. Somerset Maugham) who’ve lounged in Raffles spots over the years. So, as I settled in, I couldn’t help but imagine myself scribbling notes alongside those legends, tea in hand. It’s a quirky little daydream that made the moment feel extra special.
Pastries and Tea: The Show Stealers
Here’s the thing—3,200 PHP sounds steep, right? But once you see the spread, you’ll get it. The pastries are plentiful, with this perfect mix of sweet and savory that keeps things interesting. Warm, fluffy scones came with clotted cream and strawberry jam so good I could’ve eaten it with a spoon. The finger sandwiches—the Fresh Vegetable and Red Pepper Hummus Roll Up, the Smoked Chicken Salad Wrapped with Grilled Zucchini Leaf, the refreshing Mini Prawn Cocktail Sandwich, the rich Prosciutto and Manchego Mousse, and the elegant Smoked Salmon Crepe Rolled in Chia Seeds—were delicate but bursting with flavor. And the sweet stuff? The vibrant Tropical Fruit Tartlet, the aromatic Pistachio Tea Cake, the exotic Rose, Cardamom, and Yoghurt Bar, the zesty Lemon Financier, the decadent Peanut Crunch Cake, and the timeless Classic Napoleon—all almost too pretty to touch. Every bite was different, so I took my time, savoring it all.
But the real star? Their silver moon green tea with strawberry and vanilla. I’m not exaggerating when I say it was exquisite. The smell hit me first—fresh strawberries with a whisper of vanilla. Then the taste: smooth, refreshing, with just the right hint of sweetness. It danced with the pastries like they were made for each other. Honestly, I could’ve lingered there all afternoon with that tea alone (which I think I partly did).
A Little Pause in the Hustle
Sitting there, sipping and nibbling, a wave of calmness settles over you. It’s funny how something as simple as tea can feel like a mini-vacation from Manila’s chaos. I felt pampered, like I’d given myself permission to slow down. That’s the magic of a place like this—it’s not just about the food; it’s the whole vibe.
The Bike Parking Snag
Now, let’s talk about my one gripe. I showed up on my bike—because why not?—and discovered there’s no proper bike parking at Raffles Makati. The guards weren’t exactly rolling out the red carpet either. I had to mention that I had a reservation before they finally warmed up and treated me like I belonged. It was a bit of a hassle, and I couldn’t help but think—shouldn’t everyone get the same welcome, whether they’re in a car, on a bike, or strolling in? That said, the staff did take care of my bike after, which I appreciated. Still, it’s something I hope they smooth out for the next two-wheeled guest.
Why It’s Still a Win
Despite that little bump, the experience was a knockout. The Writer’s Bar has this exclusive, tucked-away feel—like you’re in on a secret. The staff were excellent and more importantly, the whole experience felt special, like a treat you’d save for a milestone or a lazy Sunday.
So, is the “Heritage Afternoon Tea” worth 3,200 PHP? Definitely, I would say so. The pastries are a delight, the tea is pure bliss, and the ambiance wraps it all up in a neat, luxurious bow. Sure, the bike experience could’ve been better, but if you’re craving a taste of something extraordinary, this is it. Go on, give it a whirl—you’ll thank me later!
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