This latest addition to SM’s roster of top-of-the-line, world-class accommodations invites guests to enjoy a serene oasis amid the vibrant energy of the Mall of Asia complex. Ideally situated for discerning guests, it offers access to the country’s largest commercial and entertainment hub while providing the warmth and luxurious comfort of home for a relaxing retreat at day’s end.
Since Lanson Place Mall of Asia opened, I’ve always been impressed by its heartfelt guest service and captivated by its various activities and events. The latest, the After Dark Fiesta and Calavera Festival at the hotel’s Cyan Modern Kitchen, took place the weekend before last and was lively and colorful. Inspired by Mexico’s grand Dia de los Muertos celebration, the restaurant served an array of Mexican dishes and free-flowing craft tequila cocktails, all set to live music.
As part of the sumptuous buffet, bold new blends were available to guests who wanted to try out the festive energy of the Calavera Festival’s flavorful cocktails—the tangy sweetness of the Tamarindita, the kick of the Bala del Cañon, the mystery of the Moradita, and the uniqueness of many others.
The buffet spread overflowed with many delectable favorites that pleased foodies to the max. There were Camarones A La Diabla and the refreshing Ceviche together with many others for appetizers. The mains had my favorite Roasted Suckling Pig with Mole Sauce, together with all kinds of shellfish anyone can hanker for—lobsters, prawns, crabs, shrimps, oysters, etc.
The dessert table had loads of calorific treats that gave me a hard time deciding which one was worth violating my doctor’s orders for. I eventually settled for Leche Flan and a scoop of strawberry ice cream.
The restaurant’s fun-loving guests also had the opportunity to have their faces painted to blend with their costumes. Since there was a prize given to the best Halloween attire, the creativity of the Filipino marched to the fore once again! Some came with the scariest masks ever, and others looked like they just crept out of their graves.
There were also those who looked very Mexican in their OOTDs that one could never mistake the restaurant for anything else but a colorful extension of Mexico. Exciting prizes were given out, including a complimentary pre-dinner buffet for two persons at the restaurant, for the “Best Dressed of the Night.”
I was very lucky that this fun event coincided with my recent stay at the hotel when I celebrated the birthday of my grandson. It is always a joy to stay at Lanson Place Mall of Asia. I like its contemporary interiors and the calming view of Manila Bay that always soothes my eternally stressed psyche. I also like its rooftop swimming pool that offers a commanding view, not only of the bay but also of the neighboring cities.
My two grandsons always enjoy themselves in the hotel’s rooftop pool. This staycation was my birthday gift to the older one who turned five. At dinner, that same evening, the restaurant’s staff, in their Mexican hats, presented him with a chocolate birthday cake. It is his favorite, and the birthday greeting thrilled him and his younger brother no end.
Lanson Place is known for its family-like service tradition and heartfelt hospitality. The thoughtful in-room welcome amenity and the staff’s personalized approach is the heart of the hotel. It always makes a lasting impression not only on me but also on my grandsons. The older one didn’t want us to check out. The hotel certainly succeeded in making a meaningful heartfelt connection with him.
For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com
