MANILA, Philippines - Last March 6, The Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts Philippine Properties recently feted media friends in an intimate cocktail and dinner at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila. The special themed event dubbed, “The Latin Circle”, celebrated the romantic Latin cultures of the world. The concept was inspired by the hotel group’s food and beverage loyalty program, The Table, by Golden Circle which rewards guests with signature food experiences, exclusive events and unique surprises.
Guests were welcomed through the gates of Manila’s only CHI, The Spa, and to the hotel’s poolside where a Latin American cocktail party mood was set. Shangri-La Fort’s head mixologist Ulysse Joaunneaud prepared special tropical concoctions for the occasion, paired with black bean enchiladas in red pepper tuiles, presented Cuban cigar-style, by Edsa Shanrgi-La’s executive sous chef Christine Zarandin.
Revelers were then ushered to dinner at CHI, The Spa’s outer sanctum, where a bespoke Golden Circle table was created especially for the thanksgiving event. The tables cape consisted of exquisite blooms by event stylist extraordinaire, Teddy Manuel, and breathtaking Italian glass sculptures by Murano. The samba band, Guaraná, and the talented Eileen Sison provided the evening’s live entertainment, with various fiery Latin dance performances to introduce the mood of each course.?
After dinner, guests were led to the cigar lounge by the pool, where port, cognac and sherry were poured. Edsa Shangri-La executive pastry chef Martin Frowd showcased various pastries inspired by the hotel’s urban oasis persona. Photos by Joey viduya