Sudu Christmas Buffet, Hotel Hilton, KL Sentral, Malaysia

I'm enjoying what big hotels are doing with buffets these days. It seems that smaller portions replenished more often has become the trend.  I'm hoping this also means less waste, but it definitely means fresher food. Sudu, in the Hilton at KL Sentral is doing just that. It seems that a focus on quality ingredients done well, rather than an enormous expanse of average food is their goal. I sampled their Christmas buffet and found something to satisfy everyone. A good mix of local and western dishes and some traditional Christmas treats are on offer. You're advised to arrive early or make a reservation as the dining area is often packed by around 8pm. While dishes are constantly topped up, a full house also means they run out fast. If you're an optimist, as I am, you might think that's great as you are assured of fresh food, however some of my dining buddies were not so happy as they had to wait for some of the dishes they wanted to taste. Must eats from this buffet are a fine selection of cheeses, the butter prawns, fish in white sauce and of course the turkey with gravy, stuffing or cranberry sauce. For the sweet tooth you'll be pleased with the praline cheesecake and the mango mousse with a  green tea base. You can go online to find further details about their festive offerings but one great thing to know of is their free pick-up and drop-off service for diners during the New Year's Eve celebrations.

Sudu
Hilton Kuala Lumpur
3 Jalan Stesan Sentral
50470 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
+6 03 2264 2264
www.life.hiltonkl.com

Lemon Garden Cafe, Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur

Without a doubt, Lemon Garden Cafe at the Shangri-La has to offer one of the best buffets in KL. It is always buzzing with people whether it be a weekend or a weeknight. The food is so fresh, the presentation beautiful and after numerous visits I still haven't managed to sample the huge variety of dishes on display. Salads, breads, cheeses, sushi, seafood, caviar, Western, Italian, local and an enormous dessert section - you are spoilt for choice. You will find not even one soggy lettuce leaf here. Truly, everything appears to have been picked or caught just hours before serving. The setting is lovely - floor to ceiling glass with views to a pond and garden (although it can be a little noisy with the number of people and all of that non-sound absorbing glass). If you visit for the weekend brunch you can be entertained by a fun trio of musicians who will do their best to serenade your table with whatever song you request.

Lemon Garden Cafe
Shangri-La Hotel
11 Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
T: (60 3) 2032 2388
www.shangri-la.com