As a certified trentahin, I’ve noticed that catching up with friends now looks a little different.
Instead of loud nights out, I find myself gravitating toward slower, more refined experiences, and afternoon tea is a perfect example.
So when Lusso and Max Mara teamed up for a luxurious High Tea Experience, I couldn't wait to try it for myself.
Officially launched on October 6, 2026, at Lusso's Greenbelt 5 branch, the collaboration brings together elegant fashion and indulgent dining, making it the perfect afternoon treat for anyone embracing their tita era in style.
LUSSO X MAX MARA: HIGH TEA MENU + HOW MUCH?
The Lusso x Max Mara high-tea experience exclusive three-tier set features a selection of sweet and savory treats inspired by the elegance and craftsmanship associated with both brands.
Guests can satisfy their sweet tooth with the Nut Trio Tart Mont Blanc, made with hazelnut, walnut, pecan, and chestnut cream; Honey Panna Cotta topped with organic honey and sugar tuile; Espresso Macaron with espresso buttercream and chocolate ganache; and a specially made Max Mara Sugar Cookie.
For savory bites, the menu includes an Egg & Espelette Pepper Sandwich with egg salad on milk bread, a Truffle Prosciutto Bikini with truffle mayonnaise, prosciutto, and Asiago cheese, and a Prawn Mayonnaise Brioche flavored with tarragon.
Rounding out the set are freshly baked Brown Butter Scones served with strawberry jam and mascarpone.
The High Tea experience also comes with a choice of Mariage Frères tea flavors, including Marco Polo, Earl Grey Impérial, Rouge Pleine Lune, English Breakfast Tea, and Vert Provence. Coffee lovers may opt for an Americano, Espresso, Caffè Latte, Cappuccino, or Caffè Mocha instead.
The High Tea set is priced at PHP2,650 for two persons, with guests also given the option to elevate the experience with a glass of Prosecco for an additional PHP490.
Guests who purchase the High Tea experience at Lusso will receive a voucher redeemable at Max Mara, while shoppers who make a qualifying purchase at Max Mara will be given a voucher redeemable for the High Tea experience at Lusso.
THE VERDICT
My personal favorites from the set were the savory selections.
As an egg sandwich lover, the Egg & Espelette Pepper Sandwich was a standout. The creamy egg salad paired with soft milk bread made for a simple yet satisfying bite.
I also enjoyed the Truffle Prosciutto Bikini, which combined truffle mayonnaise, prosciutto, and Asiago cheese. It leaned a little on the salty side for my taste, but it was still flavorful.
The Prawn Mayonnaise Brioche complemented my iced latte perfectly, with the sweetness balancing the coffee's bold flavors without overpowering it.
The savory selections were so good that we ended up asking for a second round. I'm not sure if refills are typically offered during regular service, but guests were treated to additional servings during the launch.
On the sweet side, the Nut Trio Tart Mont Blanc was a pleasant surprise. It wasn't overly sweet.
The Espresso Macaron had just the right amount of sweetness, avoiding the cloying taste that macarons can sometimes have.
I can easily see it pairing well with tea.
Alongside coffee, the espresso notes can feel a bit too similar and intense.
I'm personally not a big fan of sugar cookies, but the Max Mara Sugar Cookie was still an enjoyable treat. Although a little drier than I prefer, it made up for it with its subtle sweetness.
Paired with my iced latte, it worked surprisingly well, balancing the coffee's bold, slightly bitter notes without being overpowering.
Rating: 3.9/5
CELEBRITIES SPOTTED
PEP joined a stylish crowd of celebrities, influencers, and tastemakers at the launch of the Lusso x Max Mara High Tea Experience.
Lifestyle and travel personality Steph Zubiri served as host, sharing stories from her food and travel adventures that perfectly complemented the collaboration between the luxury fashion house and the iconic restaurant.
Among those spotted at the event were Gretchen Fragada, Princess Legaspi, Rima Ostwani, Lui Diongco, Treisha Vanns, Marilou Koa, Kelly Misa, Chelsea Robato, Marie Lozano, Cat Arambulo, and Adela-Mae Marshall, who gathered to celebrate the elegant partnership over an afternoon of fashion, food, and conversation.
Check out photos from the event below:
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