Afternoon Tea with a New York Twist at Writers Bar

A line from a classic children's book pretty much says it all. Nothing like a calming cup of tea to make your day a whole lot better. And at the legendary Writers Bar, the revered English tradition of afternoon tea, or High Tea, is revived with a modern, colorful, and flavorful New York twist. The Writers Bar collaborates with Kate Spade, New York's fashion icon and queen of quirk, for a sumptuous three-course spread of savory finger sandwiches and indulgent desserts inspired by Kate Spade's vibrant signature colors and  playful designs with a selection of the finest teas. 

A tribute to the writers who have stayed at the Raffles Singapore, which include Ernest Hemingway and Somerset Maugham, Writers Bar is an updated reinterpretation of the original bar styled as a library, exuding an old world charm. And there's just no better place to enjoy afternoon tea than at Writers Bar.

Part of the Writers Bar's exclusive "Pret-a-Portea" series, the Kate Spade New York Afternoon Tea at Writers Bar is a first of its kind, blending luxury fashion labels with the afternoon tea tradition for a whole new and unique experience.

The very best teas are offered at Writers Bar, with a wide selection of rich blends from Harney & Sons. Served in elegant china, afternoon tea at Writers Bar relives the classic elegance of a bygone era. Kate Spade adds her own distinct and colorful spin to this tradition, with a selection of savory nibbles and sweets.

Roxanne, our friendly server at Writers Bar, runs us through the extensive selection of tea blends. Choose from eleven exclusive tea blends, from traditional Dorchester Breakfast Tea and Darjeeling to exotic Organic Passion Plum and Ginger Oolong tea. You can enjoy up to three different tea blends, with unlimited refills, to fully enjoy your afternoon tea experience.

I start with Roxanne's recommendation, a dark Sweet Paris, blended with caramel, vanilla, and cinnamon for rich flavors in every sip. The different and distinct notes play in a blend of complex yet subtle and balanced flavors. Simply add a cube or two of brown sugar with a spot of milk to bring out even more flavors.

The rich flavors of Sweet Paris, a fruity black tea, is the perfect start to your afternoon tea experience at Writers Bar, and I go for second cup. Take your time, and just enjoy the moment. This is, after all, what afternoon tea is all about. 

Then, the first course is served, a selection of savory finger sandwiches on an elegant glass tray...

The selection of savory sandwiches include Cream Cheese Smoked Salmon on Mini Bagel, Tomato, Mozzarella, and Pesto on Bruschetta, Turkey Pastrami, Cheddar, and Green Apple on Rye Bread, and Grilled Marinated Bell Peppers on Sun-Dried Tomato Ciabatta. Paired with a cup of Sweet Paris, perfect. 

Following Roxanne's reco, I go for the Mango Fruit blend for my second pot of tea. The tart and sweet notes cleanses the palate, as the next course is served. 

A cup of freshly brewed Mango Fruit tea by my side, the second course is served, an elegant three-tiered course of indulgent desserts. My afternoon tea experience goes into high gear, and some serious restraint is needed. Afternoon tea, after all, is best enjoyed with a slow and unhurried pace. 

Writers Bar offers their take on the classic English scone with their Chocolate Chip Scones, served with a side of strawberry jam and cream. Strawberries and cream, with scones and tea...can't get any more British than this. 

At the top of the three-tiered tray, one can find a colorful Mini-Eclair, Mini Cakes, Mini Chocolate Beau Bag, and Mini Religeuses or French choux pastry filled with cream. The colors are inspired by the latest collection from Kate Spade, with a miniature replica of one of the designer's bags. The Mango Fruit tea blend pairs perfectly with the indulgent desserts, balancing the rich and creamy sweetness with its bold and tart notes. 

On the second tier, you can find a pair of Macarons and Mini-Donuts,  in the distinct and familiar bright colors of the New York designer. 

Finally, the third course is served, Homemade Chocolate, intricate handcrafted little biteswith a variety of fillings. And a red shoe made from chocolate completes your Kate Spade New York Afternoon Tea experience at Writers Bar. 

As you enjoy yet another bite with your tea, a piano player provides that final element for a perfect afternoon tea experience. 

Ricky, our other server, suggested I try the White Vanilla Grapefruit blend for my last round. 

And he was right. The subtle tartness of the grapefruit and the mild, buttery notes of the vanilla are exactly what you need after the savory sandwiches and indulgent desserts. Pour another cup and simply sit back and enjoy. 

The Kate Spade Afternoon Tea at Writers Bar is us priced at P 1,500 good for two, available from 2:30pm to 5:30pm daily, extended until November 30, 2014. You can also add P 1,000 to upgrade your tea with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rose Champagne. The world definitely seems like a much a better place after tea at Writers Bar...

Writers Bar is located at Raffles Hotel, 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati or call +632-555-9840 or email dining.makati@raffles.com for more information.

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