Classic delicacies feature in rotating menu at Penang Ramadan buffet for nostalgic experience
THE fasting month has a way of sharpening the senses; aromas and flavours seem to linger longer, while dishes carry a deeper meaning.
Amari Spice Penang’s “Juadah Nostalgia” Ramadan buffet dinner embraces this spirit, offering a spread imbued with warmth and familiarity.
From bubbling curries to hot-off-the-grill meats and childhood treats, it not only aims to satisfy hunger pangs but also rekindle memories of family gatherings.
“We drew on our team’s wealth of family recipes to curate a selection of Malaysian delicacies for guests to break fast. Some, you would not find elsewhere,” said executive chef Azmi Affandi.
A prime example is the Bidai Sapi Panggang Minang or Minangkabau-style beef ribs glazed with fragrant spices and charred to perfection.
According to the chef, the aromatics are similar to rendang, while maple wood is used for smoking.
“This results in a nice balance of heat, smoke, sweetness and umami in every bite.”
From the outdoor grills come Paha Kambing Golek Amari and fiery Ikan Bakar Bersambal using sea bass, snapper and pomfret.
There is also Sup Gearbox, a hearty beef broth to warm the soul.
Six curries are presented at the Kawah Table each evening including a Rendang Beraneka trio comprising beef, beef lung and spring chicken.
The other three are Gulai Lemak Cili Api ketam nipah (mud crab), udang harimau (tiger prawn) and sotong jarum (arrow squid).
Chef Azmi said they go great with serunding, lemang and pulut kuning.
“For us, the Kawah Table is not only a display but also a living celebration of Malaysian culinary heritage.”
The lineup rotates daily and will include Paha Ayam Bawang, Telur Masin Masak Lemak Cili Api, Puyuh Goreng Berempah, Kurma Kambing Malabar, Daging Dendeng and Sotong Sambal Petai on a particular night.
On other evenings, guests may find Paha Ayam Tandoori, Telur Pindang Bersambal, Puyuh Goreng Panko Berkari, Kambing Masak Merah, Daging Kicap Berempah and Sotong Bakar Nyonya.
Assorted ulam and kerabu, chicken and beef satay, murtabak, Roti John, rojak and dates complete the offerings.
To cater to diverse palates, some regional and international dishes have been included such as the quirkily named Daging Harimau Menangis Bakar (a Thai-Malay delicacy), shawarma, Korean fried chicken and Italian pastas prepared à la minute.
Shellfish aficionados will love the tiger prawns prepared three ways: chilli, varuval or steamed with garlic chilli soy.
There are also assorted sashimi and sushi, siew mai as well as Chef Whye’s curry fish noodles.
After this journey of spice, thoughts will turn to the array of traditional kuih and fritters, Serawa Labu, Bubur Cha-Cha, Bubur Kacang Hijau, Ais Kacang, Cendol, Apam Balik and festive biscuits that beckon alongside ice cream, assorted French pastries and freshly brewed Turkish coffee.
Don’t forget to try the Buah Melaka made on the spot and visit the Roti Man’s stall for childhood snacks.
The buffet at the hotel’s Amaya Food Gallery is available until March 15 and priced at RM188nett per adult, RM148nett for senior citizens above 60 and RM118nett for children below 12.
Served from 6.30pm to 10.30pm daily, it includes a live band.
The coffee house can accommodate up to 450 people and welcomes group bookings.
Amaya Food Gallery, Level 4, Amari Spice Penang, Persiaran Mahsuri, Bayan Lepas, Penang. (Tel: 04-683 1188 or 012-956 1030) Business hours: 6am to 10.30pm daily.
This is the writer’s personal observation and not an endorsement by StarMetro.
