One minor detail that you might notice about Café Mary Grace is that the tabletops don’t quite look the same. A closer inspection will reveal that beneath the glass tabletops are testimonials on ancient-looking paper scribbled by its many satisfied customers. And with good reason - its famous ensaymadas and iced teas are certainly worth raving about.

Although you may have seen Mary Grace stalls around Metro Manila, Café Mary Grace at Serendra is the first dine-in store. It’s an idea that may have been quite overdue though, for its home-made desserts deserve to be eaten in no less than such a laid-back and relaxing place. The soft yellow lighting is very easy on the eyes. Owner Mary Grace Dimacali and her husband Hector regularly make the rounds of tables, graciously exchanging a few words with diners.

First-timers must absolutely try the Homemade Ensaymada (P54). Soft and moist, every bite almost melts in your mouth. The same goes for the Cheese Roll (P31) , which has a substantial block of cheese in the middle. If you’d rather eat something light, opt for the Mary Grace Squares. The Lemon Square (P12) is sweet and tangy. Try also the Brownies (P15) and Carrot Squares (P20). Of course, what’s a dessert place without cakes? Order slices of the Brandy Walnut Prune Cake (P85) or the Rum Butter Cake (P73).

Equally wonderful and reasonably-priced are the iced teas. Unlike most restaurants which serve the usual powdered versions, Café Mary Grace whips up its own drinks. There are Apple and Cinnamon Honey (P67), and Hibiscus (P59) variants. Arguably though, the Sangria version (P59) is the best. Although it doesn’t have any alcohol content, this concoction of red tea, citrus and “other secret ingredients” tastes just as good as the cocktail version. Order the pitcher sizes good for four people (at P175-200 per pitcher), get a table outside, and sip the cold drinks while enjoying the balmy summer breeze. For cold nights, regulars recommend the Hot Chocolate (P82), a sinfully rich and smooth blend with a hint of vanilla. The Specialty Hot Teas in Chamomile, Green Tea Leaf and Mint Tea Leaf (P40) are not as spectacular though, as with the Peppermint and Fruits iced tea (P67).

For its superb desserts and iced teas, you can bet that after savoring every bite, you’ll be slipping your own testimonial under the glass tabletops as well.

Café Mary Grace is located at Serendra, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For inquiries, please call 856-0308 856-0858.