Birthday Celebration at Shangri-La’s High Street Cafe: An Affair To Remember

Backgrounder:

The Shangri-La Hotel group is a renowned luxury hotel chains based in Hong Kong, known for its upscale hotels, resorts, dining restaurants, and spas. Incidentally, we have been fortunate enough to have been billeted at the Island Shangrila in Hongkong (our room fronting the bay view/area) in the past when we attended an Asian Investment conference to showcase some of the major government corporations slated for privatization via other modes such PSP, PPP, and the like. The said conference was sponsored by one of the leading investment banks in the world, in collaboration with other private sector partners. Our experience in the said hotel was superb with high-quality accommodation, exceptional service, thus creating memorable experiences for us.

As far as dining and culinary are concerned, Shangri-La hotels are often associated with restaurants known for offering a diverse range of culinary options. However, just like other luxury hotel dining, the prices at Shangri-la’s restaurants are on the higher side (however, could be surprisingly affordable to some) vis-a-vis average dining establishments.

In Metro Manila, there are three Shangri-La hotels and one of its newest creation is the Shangri-La The Fort, located in a vibrant lifestyle district at the heart of the Bonifacio Global Center (BGC). Among others, one of its main dining venues is the High Street Cafe which is situated at the hotel’s lobby lounge. As featured in Shang’s website, High Street Café is a modern food hall offering buffet specialties served through a colorful variety of quality cuisines from around the world.

High Street Cafe’s savor selection ranges from “Western, Pan-Asian, Chinese, Japanese, Mediterranean and rotisserie dishes”, each exquisitely presented and delicious options from the seafood bar, salad bar, and dessert station.

The Birthday Surprise:

A surprise announcement resonated through one of our family’s weekly prayer gathering, revealing that our loving eldest sister extends a warm invitation to all for a birthday bash at High Street Cafe.

While a visit to the said cafe is not unfamiliar to us, having recently bid farewell (despedida) to a sister-in-law at the same venue, the prospect of gathering with our beloved sister amplified our excitement. The anticipation was heightened by the opportunity to savor diverse culinary delights that our taste buds weren’t able to explore before, given the buffet set up.

The Big Day!

The big day came and three of us were the early birds. Thus, we got the chance to browse the surroundings and purchased our favorite dark chocolate bar at the “Bake House”. Being there before others allowed us to observe the hotel’s facilities, and to take picture-perfect photos and all.

Ambiance: High Street Cafe sets the stage for a refined and comfortable dining experience from the moment you step in. The ambiance is upscale, with perfect lighting that offers a picturesque view of the surrounding buildings. The infusion of soft natural light enhances the brightness of the room, complementing the carefully curated decor that contributes to an overall enjoyable atmosphere.

Food: With an extensive array of cuisines, High Street Cafe excels in delivering a diverse and delectable dining menu. The food selection is impeccable, boasting a delightful array of flavors that are expertly balanced, never overpowering. One standout dish is the chicken (or duck) coconut soup, which mysteriously soothes the palate and proves to be a nourishing delight. The salad bar is a highlight, featuring organic greens that are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. While the Japanese station showcases beautifully displayed sushis and sashimis, the absence of my favorite tempura was noted. The buffet caters to all tastes, offering roasted lamb, beef, butter-flavored grilled shrimps, and salmon. The dessert bar is nearly complete, featuring a tempting assortment of cakes, ice creams, tropical fruits, and local treats like halo-halo and rice cakes. The buffet includes complimentary coffee and tea, accompanied by small slices of bread and cheese spread. Unfortunately, the French macaroons and the whole shebang were left unexplored during this visit!

Service: The staff at High Street Cafe exemplify attentiveness and enthusiasm in ensuring guests are well-cared for. A special mention is deserved for the dedicated team that served us on that day. Our thanks and appreciation go to them for their exceptional service and kind gestures. Their willingness to cater to our needs with a smile and prompt assistance enhanced the overall dining experience.

Some must-do points for consideration: The Hotel and High Street Cafe should extend a complimentary parking for guests in their restaurant. For guests, do not presume that there will always be available tables for you, even if they accept walk ins. Simply call in for reservations to get a readily available table. .

MUTC’s Birthday Wishes and Greetings: To our dearest eldest sister, Ate Marlinita, we wish you the happiest of birthdays! You are an incredible, loving, and responsible sister anyone could ask for! On this special day, we want to take a moment to celebrate not just the passing of another year but the beautiful soul that you are.

Well, birthdays aren’t just celebrated; they’re experiences, creating memories that linger like the perfect aftertaste, a special day and an affair to remember. Surrounded by the warmth of family, this birthday of yours is another chapter of your life, another milestone and opportunity to reflect on life’s journey.

Ate, your beauty isn’t just skin deep; it radiates from within. Your caring heart and nurturing spirit have created a haven for all of us, your siblings. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, providing guidance, or simply being there with a comforting presence, you’ve been our rock! From the moment you graduated from college with the course in psychology, you’ve been the pillar of strength and support for all seven of us. Your kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love have guided us through both the sunny days and stormy nights. Your selflessness knows no bounds, and your actions speak louder than words. We are endlessly grateful for the countless ways you’ve helped shape our lives.

As you add another candle to your cake, may your day be filled with joy, love, and the warmth that you bring into our lives. May this year be a reflection of the countless blessings you’ve bestowed upon us.

Here’s to celebrating you – a remarkable Mom, a loving sister and aunt, a dear and trusted friend, and a beautiful soul inside and out. May your birthday be as extraordinary as you are! May our Lord God continue to bless you with good health, long good life and happiness.

.Note: Photos shown in this blog is exclusively for My Useful Tips only. Thank you.