The dairy grind at the Shang

Hitting the sweet spot has never been this fast, easy and stylish

MANILA, Philippines - How can one resist the call of saccharine decadence when the mere thought of caramel exploding out of a cake intensifies the lure of this sinful indulgence? When the aroma of freshly baked choux pastry weakens our defenses—its coffee accent begging us to give in to such delectable temptation—there’s just no escaping. Almost always, we find ourselves surrendering to these enticingly glazed slices of heaven on earth we fondly call desserts—cupcakes, cookies, puddings, gelatos, doughnuts, brownies, macaroons, smoothies—name it, we love and enjoy eating sweets. It’s probably one of mankind’s most favorite guilty pleasures and it’s plain to see why: sugary eats make people happy. A bite of cinnamon bar or a sip of milk tea can instantly lighten up a bad day.

For most of us, a sugar fix is on the daily agenda, and today’s metropolitan lifestyle requires virtually everything to become “on-the-go.” Convenience has become a major consideration among consumers—even in buying desserts. This is where Shangri-La Plaza comes in; the country’s top lifestyle destination is home to several dessert places, ranging from homey bakeshops to artisan patisseries, that offer exquisite pastries and delicious brews that are perfect for people who are always on the move.

With many individuals embracing the cosmopolitan life who are strapped for time, the portability of handy desserts and beverages makes for a convenient and stylish way to hit the sweet spot on a dairy, I mean, daily basis.

Take me on a sweet escape

Nothing more romantic than a casual date surrounded by exquisite sweets perfect for sharing couples. Rendezvous at Poetry & Prose Patisserie, located at the Streetscape of Shangri-La Plaza Main Wing,  and marvel at the interior’s ethereal beauty while indulging on some classic French pastries.

On the table: coffee profiteroles, Baba au Rhum, Paris caramel tea and Poetry cake.

She’s in a sugar rush

Take a bite of the French tradition while running errands on a busy work day. Wicked’s six-piece assorted chewy Macaron de Paris in a chic box is perfect for the hustling career woman.

Wicked by Cravings is located at Level 5, Shangri-La Plaza East Wing.

Cop a cupcake

Squeeze in a short ‘me-time’ in between meetings; en route to Cupcakes by Sonja, found at Shangri-La Plaza East Wing’s Lower Ground Level, for a taste of lemon drop or vanilla sunshine paired with a tall glass of milkshake.

Quick, grab some ice cream

Take a break and keep your cool. Beat Manila’s year-round tropical heat, Italian style. Order a refreshing scoop of Green Tea gelato at Gelatissimo, located at the Lower Ground Level of the Shangri-La Plaza East Wing.

Sipping in action

Jumpstart your day at Jamba Juice, found at Shangri-La Plaza East Wing’s Lower Ground Level, for a classic fruity smoothie that’ll pump you up to get work done.

More sweets to go

Also in the roster are heavenly dessert places that offer both convenience and experience like Morelli’s Gelato, Bread Talk, Krispy Kreme, Serenitea, Mrs. Field’s Café and La Creperie.

Photos by KAI HUANG, Styled by MICAH LEVIN ISLA, Modeled by SHANE LEE DANIELS  and GABRIELA BARBARA Hair and Makeup by BYRON VELASQUEZ of MAC Clothes and shoes from SAMUEL & KEVIN  and XOXO available at Shangri-La Plaza East Wing, Level 5