Where to Have Afternoon Tea in Metro Manila
We've curated the best spots in the city where you can slow down and catch up with friends over tea.
by Kyla Villena
Published on Jan 15, 2026
In a fast-paced society, a slow afternoon can easily feel like a luxury. Heading out for afternoon tea, for instance, offers an indulgent yet accessible escape—one that no longer needs to be reserved for special occasions, especially with more restaurants now offering their own tea services.
Beyond the pleasure of slowing down, afternoon tea also provides an ideal setting for catching up with friends. Its refined ambiance creates a natural backdrop for conversation, laughter, and unhurried moments. Designed to be savored rather than rushed, afternoon tea encourages you to pause and connect, whether with the delicacies on your plate or the company you keep.
Tea today is more than its perceived benefits; it stands on its own as a thoughtful indulgence. Ahead, discover five places in Metro Manila where you can enjoy afternoon tea at a leisurely pace.
Where to Have Afternoon Tea in Metro Manila
The Lobby Lounge, Starts at P1888 for Two
Enjoy afternoon tea surrounded by Philippine mahogany furniture and elegant chandeliers at The Manila Hotel’s The Lobby Lounge. Suitable for its inviting ambiance is a selection of thoughtfully selected premium teas and coffee beans, together with soup, quiches, and tea sandwiches to mention a few.
Afternoon tea is available from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Lobby Lounge is located at The Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila.
High Street Lounge, Starts at P3200 for Two
High Street Lounge offers a Filipino twist to the English tradition. Their sweets take inspiration from Filipino food, one of them being “kwek-kwek” made using white chocolate mousse and toasted polvoron, topped with mango gel. The experience also includes a welcome cocktail, hand-rolled chocolate truffles, and more.
High Street Lounge is located at the Shangri-La The Fort, 30th Street corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
The Writers Bar, Starts at P3200 for Two
Indulge in sumptuous savories and sweet delicacies with the Heritage Afternoon Tea of The Writers Bar. From crostinis and tartelettes, to macarons and pralines, expect a delightful time that can easily become a weekly ritual.
Afternoon tea is available from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. The Writers Bar is located at Raffles Makati, 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati.
Blackbird at the Nielson Tower, Starts at P980 for One
With an ambiance focusing on the warmth of Filipino hospitality, Blackbird at the Nielson Tower is an ideal location for a slow and relaxing afternoon. Bask in the sunlight as you sip on a warm cup of fine tea, accompanied by assorted finger sandwiches, cakes, and the like.
The Blackbird at the Nielson Tower is located at 6752 Makati Avenue, Makati.
Papillon, Starts at P1400 for Two
The Michelin-selected Papillon takes diners on a Southeast Asian journey with a diverse spread of small, sweet, and savory bites to accompany tea. Brioche kaya toast, brown butter puto bao, and fried chicken tom yum bao are some of the delectable bites that they offer.
Afternoon tea is available from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Papillon is located at the Frabelle Corporate Plaza, 129 Tordesillas Street, Salcedo Village, Makati.
Kyla Villena loves a good lip gloss and a trip to the art gallery. She is Preview's beauty girl, who doubles as a self-proclaimed motivational speaker.
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