Shanghai Saloon brings one beautiful afternoon dining experience

When one thinks of high tea, scenes from the movie “Marie Antoinette” come to mind. It is pretty much the artistic standard, presenting women in lavish garbs in a lush green garden enjoying a spread of confectionery creations in all kinds of pastel colors to match their specially brewed tea. It is one of the best ways to spend the afternoon. But in this restaurant in Mandaluyong City, high tea becomes a contemporary dining affair and gets an oriental twist. After all, before it made its way to the West, tea started its history in Asia.

Inside The Podium in Ortigas Center, Shanghai Saloon has been the go-to place for anyone wanting to savor elevated Chinese cuisine. But apart from the treasures that are crafted in its kitchen, restaurateur Grace Lee prides on the overall experience diners get when they eat at the restaurant. Much like her Korean fried chicken chain, Kko Kko, which brings a piece of Seoul in the country, customers are transported to modern China through Shanghai Saloon. Its store design is the perfect mix of East and West with its Chinese marque sign in laser red and hanging duck window display coupled with the finery that comes from its plush seatings, mirrored walls, 1920s art deco lines, and crystals chandeliers.

That same fusion is what one gets from its latest high tea offering. Call it a gastronomic journey because that is what it truly is. With three plates placed on a beautiful set, Shanghai Saloon takes one from Asia to Europe by curating some of its signature eats.

Dim sums like Hakao, Foie Gras Dumplings, Ham Sui Gok made more appealing with elegant tones of and gold black, red, tangerine start the culinary travel. An introduction to pastry is the second plate with its mix of sweet and savory through the glossy egg tart filled with strawberries and a juicy pork barbecue is a bun. Wrapping the experience is a variety of tiny bakes that packs wonderful flavors. China is represented by the slightly tangy Cream and Mango Mochi. Japan’s fluffy sponge cake Castella becomes more dreamy with whipped cream and fresh blueberry topping. And a detour to Italy is served with a slice of Tiramisu.

@mbfoodies

Must-try: ShanghaiSaloon High Tea with MoetChandon MBFoodies foodtokph foodietokph fyp

original sound - Tony Tran

Complementing these eats are brewed cups courtesy of Shanghai Saloon’s array of premium Chinese teas, from the bold Black Oolong and Puer Ripe to the floral ones like Osmanthus, White Peony, and Rose Petals. Hyping its luxury feel is a flute filled with Moët et Chandon champagne.

“Moet does bring prestige that comes with the brand,” Grace says. “So we work hand in hand to make sure our food is up to standards.”

Shanghai Saloon’s High Tea starts at P600+ per person (minimum of two pax). While its Champagne High Tea costs P1,300+ per person and comes with a glass of Moët et Chandon champagne. Check out @shanghaisaloonph on Instagram to learn how to book a reservation.