Beyond the Macaron: Ladurée Introduces a Century-Old French Tea Culture to Manila’s Modern Cafe Scene

Exterior view of the Ladurée Salon de Thé, featuring an elegant sign with 'Ladurée Paris', a beautifully decorated interior with chandeliers and colorful pastries displayed on shelves.

Paris has officially arrived in Ortigas—gracefully, sweetly, and with a touch of gold. Ladurée has opened its first full-service Salon de Thé in the Philippines, offering more than just its famous pastel-hued macarons. Located at The Podium, this new spot invites guests to experience a more immersive taste of French café culture, right in the heart of Metro Manila.

For years, Ladurée’s macarons have been available through select retail corners, but this is the first time Filipinos get the full sit-down experience: delicate pastries served on fine china, coffee poured tableside, and a space designed for lingering conversations over sweets and tea.

Naturally, the macarons are front and center. Bestsellers like Pistachio, Rose, Salted Caramel, and Lemon are all available, along with rotating seasonal flavors. Each one is crafted with that signature balance—light, crisp shells giving way to smooth, flavorful ganache. But what sets this location apart is what comes with them: a full menu of pastries and savory items, plus an elegant dining space that feels both intimate and elevated.

The interiors are as charming as you’d expect—soft pastels, antique mirrors, marble tables, and a bit of Parisian flair in every corner. It’s the kind of place that turns a quick coffee break into a small moment of luxury, without trying too hard.

Beyond macarons, the pastry selection includes classics like Ispahan (a rose macaron layered with lychee cream and raspberries), glossy Religieuse, buttery Kouign-Amann, and fruit tartlets. On the savory side, there are plated brunch options like Quiche Lorraine, Croque-Monsieur, and smoked salmon sandwiches. The kitchen keeps it light and refined—ideal for a midday treat or a low-key celebration.

Coffee lovers will find something to enjoy, too. Ladurée offers everything from creamy cappuccinos to traditional café viennois, served with the same care as their pastries. Their tea selection is also worth exploring, especially signature blends like Marie Antoinette—a black tea scented with rose and citrus.

Here’s a peek at the menu highlights:

Macarons: Pistachio, Rose, Salted Caramel, Chocolate, Vanilla, plus seasonal picks

Pastries: Ispahan, Religieuse, Kouign-Amann, Éclairs, Millefeuille

Savory: Quiche Lorraine, Croque-Monsieur, Salmon & Chicken Sandwiches, Eggs Benedict

Drinks: Marie Antoinette tea, Jardin Bleu, Espresso, Café Crème, Iced teas, and milkshakes

Prices range from ₱150 for a single macaron to around ₱800+ for plated dishes. While it leans luxurious, it’s not unapproachable—making it perfect for quiet treats, birthdays, or a spontaneous afternoon pick-me-up.

With this opening, Ladurée adds something special to Manila’s café scene: a space that encourages you to sit, savor, and enjoy the little things. Because sometimes, all it takes is a really good macaron to feel like you’re somewhere else entirely.

Photo credit: Ladurée Philippines / Official Social Media Channels

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