With its international selection, Duchess Fine Teas redefines the art of tea

"Tea is more than just a drink—it's an experience, a ritual, and a connection to cultures across the world. At Duchess Fine Teas, we are passionate about sourcing only the best, ensuring that every sip tells a story." ~Dee Ledonio, Founder of Duchess Fine Teas

One of the world's oldest drinks, tea is consumed daily by billions of people every day.  Tea comes in a wide range of tastes and kinds, whether you're enjoying a traditional English morning blend, a cool glass of iced chamomile, or a warm cup of green tea, whether you want to curl up with a hot cup of Earl Grey or cool off with an Iced Peach White Tea. Tea has rich traditions in many countries, which makes it an interesting subject to study.  There is so much to learn about this popular beverage, from its origins to its incredible health advantages.

With the official introduction of Duchess Fine Teas, which offers a carefully chosen assortment of premium teas from around the world, tea enthusiasts in the Philippines are in for a magnificent experience. With the goal of redefining tea culture, the brand offers a high-end yet reasonably priced tea experience with carefully chosen teas from China, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, India, and Indonesia.  Duchess Fine Teas was established by Dee Ledonio with the goal of supplying the best teas from around the world to homes, hotels, cafes, and restaurants across the country. 

The Birth of Duchess Fine Teas: A Founder's Journey 

Entrepreneurship has always come naturally to Dee Ledonio. She started her first business at the age of 21, welcoming the difficulties and benefits that come with starting anything from scratch.  Her love of business inspired her to enroll in the Asian Institute of Management's Master of Entrepreneurship program, where she honed her leadership, strategy, and innovation abilities.

But her journey into the world of tea was not planned it was serendipitous.

During her travels throughout Europe, especially the UK, Dee developed a deep affection for the tea culture.  She delighted at the beautiful mixes, strolled through quaint tea cafés, and witnessed firsthand the ceremonial beauty of tea sipping.  From Assamese rich, malty tastes to the She learned that tea was more than simply a drink—it was an experience, a way of life, and a means of bridging cultural divides—after tasting the subtle floral flavors of Darjeeling.

She then received a carefully chosen gift package of premium loose-leaf teas from India for Christmas 2024.  She was mesmerized by the scent as soon as she opened it. It was a sensory delight, but it also raised the following question: "Why is it that in the Philippines, our tea selection is so limited?"

That question ignited an idea.

What if the same premium teas she had found overseas were available to Filipinos? What if a market that had long been controlled by sugary mixes and instant tea could be opened up to loose-leaf teas, presented in stylish pyramid tea bags and tin canisters?  With the assistance of a reliable friend and co-founder, Dee started importing high-end, branded teas from India, which is home to some of the most renowned teas in the world.

As one nation led to another, Duchess Fine Teas quickly began importing carefully chosen teas from China, Taiwan, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand.  Dee thought it was time to teach Filipinos the genuine art of tea drinking because every tea had a story to tell and each blend retained the heritage of its origins.

A Global Selection, Curated for the Philippine Market 

Duchess Fine Teas partners with renowned tea brands, ensuring authentic and high-quality selections, including:

• India - Sancha, Tea Shelf, Dancing Leaf, Goodwyn, Hillcarts, Tea Trunk
• Indonesia - Savis
• Japan - Ikkyu
• Thailand - Monteaco
• Taiwan - JSY
• China - Duchess Fine Teas (own label)
• Korea - Nokchawon

Offering loose-leaf and bagged teas to both tea lovers and enterprises, the brand will debut through [sales channels: online, retail, pop-ups, collaborations with hotels & restaurants].

A Refined Tea Experience

Beyond premium teas, Duchess Fine Teas introduces exclusive tea accessories, luxury packaging, and educational tea workshops to elevate the tea experience.

Duchess Fine Teas: Brand Story, Vision, and Mission 

Brand Story

A love of fine flavors, cultural customs, and the art of appreciating tea gave rise to Duchess Fine Teas.  Our journey started with a desire to introduce the best teas from around the world to discriminating palates, and it was rooted in the ageless elegance of tea culture.  We carefully choose our assortment to provide an unmatched tea experience, ranging from the handmade blends of China, Japan, and beyond to the verdant tea estates of India and Sri Lanka.

We appreciate tradition while reinventing tea drinking with a profound respect for both legacy and creativity.  Whether it's a strong black tea, a calming white tea, or a herbal blend with wellness benefits, Duchess Fine Teas is more than just a drink; it's a ritual, an experience, and a luxury moment in the middle of the day.

Our goal is still the same as we expand: to provide the best teas from across the globe to tea aficionados, tea lovers, and those just starting out in the tea industry.  Every sip is an opportunity to savor "The Art of Tea - Redefined."

Vision

To be the premier tea brand that redefines tea culture by offering an exceptional selection of globally sourced, high-quality teas, bringing elegance, wellness, and a refined experience to tea lovers worldwide.

Mission

1. Curate the Finest Teas - To source and distribute premium teas from renowned tea-producing regions, ensuring superior quality, authenticity, and sustainability.
2. Promote a Lifestyle of Elegance & Wellness - To inspire a refined yet approachable tea culture that encourages relaxation, mindfulness, and well-being.
3. Deliver an Exceptional Experience - To provide an immersive tea-drinking experience through beautifully crafted packaging, educational content, and expert curation.
4. Expand Tea Appreciation - To introduce tea enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike to diverse tea traditions, flavors, and rituals from around the world.
5. Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing - To support responsible sourcing practices by working with ethical tea producers and advocating for sustainability in the tea industry.
6. Create Community & Connection - To build a global community of tea lovers, fostering conversations and shared experiences through tea.

As a result, Duchess Fine Teas was established as a movement to reshape tea culture in the Philippines, not just a brand.  Dee's path from a single Christmas present to a fully operational company is proof that even the most mundane situations can inspire creativity and that the proper combination of passion, vision, and opportunity can transform an idea into something very remarkable.

For more information, visit our e commerce website at www.duchessfineteas.com.ph or follow Duchess Fine Teas on Instagram and Facebook.

First Bite, Lasting Obsession: Burger & Lobster’s Philippine Debut at SM Supermalls

An exciting new chapter in Manila's culinary scene is about to begin.  Global dining sensation Burger & Lobster is finally making its Philippine debut at SM, the #HomeofFirsts, bringing its world-famous wild-caught lobsters and prime cut burgers to Manila’s most discerning foodies, ready to redefine casual dining with a premium feel in the country.

By concentrating on two elements and honing them with passion and accuracy, the London-based phenomenon began and achieved success.  By perfecting the craft of creating outstanding burgers and perfectly cooking wild-caught lobsters, Burger & Lobster established itself as a dining destination that attracted foodies from New York to Dubai, Singapore, and other places.  What was the outcome?  Burgers are too delicious.  Lobsters are amazing.  After just one bite, your entire life will be called into question.  Manila will now have its chance to become #OfficiallyObsessed.

An Unapologetically Bold Dining Experience 

With its sophisticated yet approachable ambiance, dedication to using only the best ingredients, and menu based on skill and simplicity, Burger & Lobster is more than simply a restaurant—it's a destination.  In addition to the food, Manila's trend-conscious diners, foodies, and young professionals will find themselves returning for the experience that each bite offers.

Burger & Lobster at SM Aura offers not just delicious food but also a relaxed yet opulent eating experience that blends in well with Manila's vibrant culinary scene.  Every visit, whether it's a long-awaited treat, an impulsive craving, or a new favorite restaurant, is intended to be an explosion of robust, rich flavors—each mouthful providing unadulterated, pure satisfaction because life is too short for dull nibbles!

Burger & Lobster will take you on a culinary journey with dishes like The Lobster, which is a whole Canadian lobster served grilled or steamed; The Burger, which is 100% prime beef grilled to perfection in a brioche bun with their secret sauce; and The Lobster Roll, which is a buttery brioche roll filled with succulent lobster meat and Japanese mayo, all of which are made with their trademark commitment to quality and bold flavors.  Every plate guarantees a rich and unforgettable experience, demonstrating why this brand has gained international acclaim.

Join the Obsession!

For the first time, Burger & Lobster is bringing something new, interesting, and incredibly satisfying to Manila. There's no turning back once you try Burger & Lobster.  Get dressed up, bite into it, and prepare to be #OfficiallyObsessed and #SERVE.

We at SM Supermalls take pleasure in offering Filipino foodies the best of the world, from innovative dining experiences that redefine what it means to have it all to first-to-market products.  With the addition of Burger & Lobster to SM Aura, we are able to offer a unique culinary experience for people who are hungry for adventure on a plate while also maintaining our roster of renowned international brands.

Don’t miss out on the obsession—visit Burger & Lobster at SM Aura, Ground Floor today!

Stay updated! Follow @burgerandlobsterph on Instagram for exclusive content and sneak peeks. For more exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

SM Supermalls #HomeOfFirsts 

At SM Supermalls, we take pride in being the Home of Firsts—bringing you the first-to-market brands, groundbreaking experiences, and culinary destinations you won’t find anywhere else. From world-class dining and retail exclusives to innovative spaces that inspire and connect communities, we’re redefining what it means to have it all. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and delivering memorable moments that make every visit more meaningful. There’s always something new and memorable waiting for you at SM. 

A Taste of Italy's Finest: Rossopomodoro Makes Its Asian Debut at SM Mall of Asia

The creamy decadence of delicate milky mozzarella, the rich tang of slow-simmered tomato sauce, and the seductive aroma of newly baked dough all combine to create the ideal combination.  With the opening of its first location in Asia at SM Mall of Asia, Rossopomodoro—the biggest pizza brand in Italy—has made a definitive entry into the Philippine market.

As the Home of Firsts, SM Supermalls keeps introducing Filipinos to new things and bringing them closer to fine dining experiences. Rossopomodoro is the most recent example of this dedication.

Diners can now finally enjoy the genuine taste of Naples and authentic Italian culinary craftsmanship thanks to the opening of Rossopomodoro's first location in Asia. The restaurant offers a carefully chosen selection of authentic wood-fired pizza, a signature blend of fresh ingredients, and time-honored traditions. 

At the grand opening of Rossopomodoro at SM Mall of Asia, a pizza-cutting ceremony kicked off a new gastronomic adventure for Filipino diners while honoring Italian tradition and flavor.  Visitors got their hands dirty as they watched Italian pizzaiolos demonstrate how to make the ideal bite-sized Neapolitan dough from scratch.

Rossopomodoro takes pride in its long-standing culinary traditions and use of fresh, premium ingredients to create pizzas, pastas, and Italian delicacies that have made it one of the most well-known pizzerias in the world. 

With free-flowing cocktails, live DJ music, and a feast of Rossopomodoro's renowned specialty dishes, guests enjoyed their senses in a lively atmosphere.  While the Pizza Reginella pleased with its fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil, the Pizza Verace boasted the deep, traditional flavors of Naples with its San Marzano tomatoes and creamy mozzarella di bufala.  A true taste of Italy's best culinary traditions, the Linguine Gamberi e Limone provided pasta fans with a vibrant, zesty blend of delicious shrimp and citrus-infused olive oil.

A increasing number of first-in-market eating concepts have picked SM as their home in the Philippines, and Rossopomodoro's first location in Asia is just another example. From Japan's most popular ramen to New York's best burgers, SM is still at the forefront of introducing international flavors to Filipino diners.

SM is still the best place to find top-notch eating experiences in the nation, and more foreign brands will be joining it shortly.  For at SM, the world's greatest flavors aren't simply available; they're already here and ready to be enjoyed.

Visit Rossopomodoro at Level 1, North Entertainment Mall in SM Mall of Asia and enjoy a true taste of Naples. For more exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

SM Supermalls #HomeOfFirsts 

At SM Supermalls, we take pride in being the Home of Firsts—bringing you the first-to-market brands, groundbreaking experiences, and culinary destinations you won’t find anywhere else. From world-class dining and retail exclusives to innovative spaces that inspire and connect communities, we’re redefining what it means to have it all. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and delivering memorable moments that make every visit more meaningful. There’s always something new and memorable waiting for you at SM. 

Savor the World on a Plate: A Culinary Journey at World Kitchens

Long-haul flights and a passport are no longer necessary to experience the best cuisines in the world.  Foodies may experience a convenient worldwide culinary adventure at the brand-new World Kitchens in Araneta City's Gateway Mall 2—all in one sitting at an exceptional eating location.

WORLD KITCHENS is a unique, first-of-its-kind, five-star eating establishment designed by Singapore's culinary expert, Andrew Tan Hock Lai, and inspired by the comfort cuisine of the world.  This enormous full-table-service restaurant serves a wide range of world cuisines at reasonable costs, with 15 show kitchens and international chefs specialized in distinctive cuisines. World Kitchens reinvents dining as a worldwide culinary experience by serving delicious meals at a single table and utilizing AI technology for frictionless ordering.

World Kitchens offers a carefully chosen assortment of genuine foods prepared by well-known chefs from all over the world, ranging from the well-known Asian classics to the robust European flavors.  Here, diners may enjoy delicious, full-service eating whenever they choose; it doesn't have to be reserved for special events.

Oriental Flavorful Delights

HK Mas Bistro - Drunken Clam

HK Mas Bistro - Grilled Squid

HK Ma's Bistro offers a cuisine that strikes a mix between tradition and innovation for those who are craving sophisticated Cantonese delicacies. Chef Steve Ma from Hong Kong's Sous Vide Iberico Char Siew (special Chinese BBQ pork), Drunken Clams, and Charcoal Grilled Squid are must-try dishes.

The You No Men - Maze Soba

The You No Men - Special Ramen White

With dishes like Maze Soba (dry ramen with savory toppings) and a variety of savory bowls created under Chef Takahiro Fujita's direction that showcase careful attention to texture and umami-packed broths, You No Men is a new haven for real Japanese flavors for ramen aficionados.

Unagi Yukimitsu - Unagi Hitsumabushi

At Unagi Yukimitsu, premium eel delicacies are the main attraction. 

Kuro Maguro - Premium Otoro Roll

Kuro Maguro - Salmon Don

For those who yearn for the fresh flavors of sushi and sashimi, Kuro Maguro is the place to enjoy the decadent Premium Otoro Roll or experience a medley of flavors with the Aburi Otoro Roll Truffle Sauce. Unagi Yukimitsu (grilled eel on rice with sweet, savory sauce) is a must-try; it's a rich caramelized delight that can only be achieved through expert preparation. The renowned "Tuna King" of Japan, Chef Masaki Watanabe, oversees both display kitchens.

Shinshima - Teriyaki Chicken Set

Shinshima - Cold Japanese Tofu

With its teppanyaki alternatives, such as the delicious Japanese Wagyu, Shinshima offers another Japanese dining experience. Premium ingredients and live culinary demonstrations transform every meal into an exceptional dining experience at Chef Hoshiba Fumihiko's show kitchen.

With the impending debut of Chef Fung Private Kitchen, the culinary adventure through World Kitchens continues. With dishes like Braised Wagyu Beef Noodle, it will showcase the craftsmanship of Cantonese fine dining and offer a cost-effective, genuine flavor of Chinese cuisine.

European Flavor Excellence

Dario Pizza and More - Calzone

Dario Pizza and More - Pizza Bomba

Every dish at Dario Pizza & More, including the Pizza Selvaggia and Pizza Bomb, which are created by Chef Dario Bonaccorso and include top ingredients and a flawlessly blistered crust, captures the essence of Italy.  A very delightful flavor of Italy is delivered with every bite, demonstrating that excellence is reasonably priced.

Asador de Manila - Paella de Tuetano

Asador de Manila - Gambas al Ajillo

Asador de Manila - Lengua Estofada

Spanish food lovers can enjoy the art of open-fire cooking at Asador de Manila, where Chef Gale Tan Sun skillfully prepares dishes like Paella Negra, Lengua Estofada, and Lechón Asado.  His works honor tradition while giving well-loved classics fresh spins.

Rich Asian Taste

Prana - Delhi Ki Pani Puri

 

Prana - Murgh Makhani

With meals that are bursting with depth and history, Chef Rajan Veeranan brings the warmth of Indian cuisine to World Kitchens through Prana. Recipes like Butter Chicken Masala, Pani Puri, and Afghani Murgh Tikka, a creamy and savory chicken dish, offer a genuine Indian flavor that is both decadent and affordable.

Chef Jessie - Award Winning Sisig

Chef Jessie - Baked Fillet of Chilean Sea Bass with Miso Sauce

Chef Jessie's reinvents beloved Filipino recipes with a fine dining style. Comfort food can be both luxurious and affordable thanks to dishes like the Baked Chilean Seabass in Miso, Baby Lechon, and Award-Winning Sisig, which enhance flavors of a regional favorite. This kitchen is a fantastic way to discover regional specialties in a new way thanks to chef Jessie Sincioco.

Sticky Sweet makes customized coffee and drinks, as well as desserts like Wagashi (Japanese Mochi) and Petit Four (small cakes), to finish off each meal. Dessert is the ideal way to end any dinner, and each drink is an artistic creation.

Lepak - Pandan Negroni

Lepak - Ace of Araneta

Lepak (which means relax and calm in Malay; formerly Santai) brilliantly crafts specialty beverages like the Pandan Negroni and Ace of Araneta for individuals who enjoy cocktail drinks.  It offers drink lovers an affordable and revitalizing luxury while fusing distinctive flavors into elegant, unforgettable sips.

World Kitchens is a unique eating experience in the center of Manila that combines the best delicacies from across the world, expertly prepared by chefs. Each meal is a celebration of culinary artistry, offering a top-notch yet reasonably priced experience that delights the senses, fulfills all cravings, and has a remarkable value proposition.

An exciting Women's Month luncheon hosted by Ladies at SM Center Pulilan

Join your fellow women who have played an important role in your life to fully celebrate Women's History Month.  How are you thinking?  Organizing a modest but well-planned ladies' luncheon will work in some way.  SM Center Pulilan might be the ideal destination to visit if you're in Bulacan.  Here is a summary of three of the most intriguing dining establishments where the team can enjoy their eagerly anticipated reunion.

EC Cafe | Restaurant

The varied menu at this brand-new Instagrammable café in SM Center Pulilan is designed to accommodate all gatherings and events.  Prepare yourself for an amazing gastronomic experience as EC Café offers a 24-hour menu that includes main course dishes, specialty steaks, desserts, classic pasta specialties, and an all-day breakfast.  Naturally, EC Café offers house wine, traditional and international cocktails, and expertly made hot and cold drinks that are sure to please any crowd.

Your girls will be pleased to hear that EC Café offers a delicious culinary adventure in addition to beautiful interior design and a welcoming atmosphere that allow patrons to make enduring memories with food and friends.

Brew x Press

Brew x Press is a domestic company that is well-known for its reasonably priced coffee, chocolate, and lovingly prepared meals.  Try their best-selling desserts, which include Pork Steak or Carbonara, New York Cheesecake, and Walnut Fudge Brownies, or their drinks, which include Strawberry Soda, Chocolate Spoon Classic, and Affogato, if you're visiting for the first time.  Visit Brew x Press, which is situated on the second floor of SM Center Pulilan.

David’s Tea House 

Ladies, if you enjoy a rich Chinese meal, you don't need to search any farther because David's Tea House is now accessible. David's Tea House, which serves real Chinese food, is currently open and situated on the ground floor of SM Center Pulilan.  Every bite of everything from traditional noodles to savory dumplings is a flavor of the past!

The table is ready. Have an exciting ladies’ luncheon only at SM Center Pulilan. For updates on events and activities related to Women’s Month, check out https://www.facebook.com/smcenterpulilan on Facebook.