For most Filipino travelers, Singapore Airlines has always been known as a premium carrier.
From the hot meals to the in-flight entertainment (available in all cabin classes), Singapore Airlines passengers are often treated with a slew of choices when it comes to whiling away time before arriving at their destinations.
Now, Singapore Airlines has upped the ante further: The carrier recently launched Singapore Airlines Café, a specially curated afternoon tea menu inspired by the rich tapestry of global flavors.
The grand reveal itself was notable.
Held at the posh Raffles Hotel in Makati City, the announcement of the Singapore Airline Café was immediately followed by an actual sampling of what the service is all about.
Singapore Ambassador to the Philippines Ambassador Constance See joined business executives and members of the media–both online and print–who all gathered at the Writer’s Bar in Raffles to enjoy a wide range of tea time goodies.
See, along with Singapore Airlines CEO Liwei Tai, and Simon Calasanz, Country Manager, Philippines, Mastercard, and other guests, led the ceremonial toast to start the afternoon tea.
The Writer’s Bar was the perfect backdrop for afternoon tea, and in the words of today’s generation, the place is definitely “Instagrammable.”
The tea was exemplary, at least for us, as it perfectly matched the goodies on the three-tiered stand, which is an indispensable part of afternoon tea.
Speaking of the three-tiered stand, the menu features a sampling of famous entrees from Singapore, New York, Brussels, Paris, and Australia among others.
Singapore Airlines Cafe afternoon tea experience
Tai explained: “Our carefully curated Singapore Airlines Cafe afternoon tea experience at the Writers Bar offers customers a glimpse into exciting flavors from around the world, and invites individuals to visit unique destinations in Singapore Airlines’ extensive network. We look forward to offering customers a world-class travel experience when they travel with us to embark on their next culinary adventure.”
Bernd Schneider, Cluster General Manager, Raffles and Fairmont Makati, added: “Each bite of this meticulously curated teatime set unfolds a narrative inspired by the rich tapestry of global flavors. Raffles Makati is thrilled to collaborate with a world-class brand like Singapore Airlines, creating a unique experience that celebrates culinary artistry and captures the spirit of exploration and adventure.”
Calasanz added: “Mastercard is excited to partner with Singapore Airlines and Raffles Makati to bring people closer to their culinary passion – and each other. At Mastercard, we know that shared experiences matter more than things. This specially curated afternoon tea experience will bring Mastercard cardholders – and their loved ones – on an exploration around the world through food, elevating their culinary experience and creating truly unforgettable memories for them.”
How do you avail of this special menu?
Customers who purchased a Singapore Airlines ticket with their Mastercard debit or credit card during the promotion period can enjoy 50% off the afternoon tea set (full price at P3,200++) when they pay for their culinary experience with a Mastercard card.
KrisFlyer members may also choose to redeem the afternoon tea experience for two with 7,500 KrisFlyer miles. New and existing KrisFlyer members who have not purchased an SIA ticket during the promotional period can also enjoy the experience at P3,200++ using a Mastercard card. The afternoon tea experience will be available daily from 2.00pm to 5.30pm, between September 20 and November 20, 2024.
Afternoon tea fun facts
A social occasion. Here’s a bit of trivia: Did you know that afternoon tea was originally a social occasion for the upper class to gather and socialize? It provided a respite from the heavy midday meal and a way to connect with friends and family.
The Duchess of Bedford. The Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Russell, is credited with popularizing afternoon tea in England in 1840. Historians say the Duchess often felt hungry between lunch and dinner and started the practice of having a light meal of tea, sandwiches, and cakes in the afternoon.
A British tradition. Afternoon tea is deeply ingrained in British culture and tradition. It is often associated with elegance, refinement, and leisurely enjoyment.
The three-tiered stand: The iconic three-tiered stand is used to serve afternoon tea. The bottom tier typically holds savory sandwiches, the middle tier holds scones and cakes, and the top tier holds sweets and pastries.
Tea etiquette. There are specific etiquette rules associated with afternoon tea. For example, it is considered proper to hold the teacup with your index and thumb, and the saucer with the other three fingers. Additionally, the milk is typically poured into the teacup first, and sugar is added after.
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