MANILA -- Fancy yourself a piping hot pot of tea, paired with a generous serving of clotted cream and jam on top of a warm scone? We know we do! For the second installment of its Royal Afternoon Tea Series, Raffles Makati pays homage to the inimitable sovereign monarch, as it launches Queen Victoria Afternoon Tea.

Popularized during Queen Victoria’s reign, the undeniably British tradition of a friendly, mid-afternoon gathering over tea and treats has become a staple in luxury dining worldwide. Not to be confused with ‘high tea,’ ‘afternoon tea’ is the proper, social event among friends over tea and delicacies, as is practiced in the Royal High courts. Although both may be similar in practice, ‘high tea’ is generally served with larger buffet-style food portions and can carry over onto supper.

Raffles’ Queen Victoria Afternoon Tea offers an array of tea flavors coupled with an indulgent three-tier spread of delectable finger foods; and yes, it is deemed acceptable in polite society to use your hands for these types of treats.

Help yourself to a selection of English toffee cupcakes, chocolate truffles infused with orange and gin, plus a number of other delicious sweets. For those looking for a savory flavor, think crab and cress rolls fashioned after the London Bridge, or perhaps vintage cheese tarts with pickled onion and thyme, along with many other delicious bites.

As an added delight to the experience, Raffles is also including a talk of sorts with protocol specialist Sheila Viesca of Talkshop, who will conduct tea etiquette classes and discuss proper afternoon tea composure, including samples of social faux pas, and its rich history.

After a session of Queen Victoria Afternoon Tea, you’ll surely be ready to dine with even the Queen, herself. One tip: Make sure to never raise that pinky finger!

The Queen Victoria Afternoon Tea will be offered in the Writers Bar, Raffles Makati Hotel, from August 1 through November 30. Tea Etiquette classes will be held on August 20, September 24 and October 29, 3 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.