By Shamrina Carim
The stunning atmosphere
Walking into this masterpiece designed by an excellent interior eye, Hilton has successfully caught our eye on the location first and feasted our eyes on the dinner buffet under those elated lights.
The unique proposition of this dining arena is that the seating is separated from the common area with modern, elegant, and comfortable seating fit for groups of 4 or 5 per cubicle. The main attraction within the restaurant is the centrepiece thematic artwork created to highlight the variety of breads for starters and the ending palates – the dessert bar. We noticed that the buffet was constructed in a story way, put together to distinguish international cuisines by the arrangements and significant culture-symbolic structures.
What’s in it for the month of April?
In this holy month of Ramadan, we were treated with a complementary Ifthar table to break fast prior to the dinner buffet. You can reserve under 2 dining preferences during this month. If you opt to have a fully-fledged Ifthar buffet, this will be priced at LKR 5,388/-.
The restaurant highly recommends making reservations during the season since the dining area gets packed from 7 pm onwards. Ifthar is served between 6 pm – 7 pm. The ravishing dinner buffet is happening till 10.30 pm. As mentioned, it is best to make your reservations at least a day prior, to enjoy a luxury hospitality service.
The Ifthar complementary delicacy
No doubt, they served a decent Ifthar table with dates, a glass of lemon juice, and the signature Muslim beverage, the Faluda. You can choose between shredded chicken and mutton conjee, a delicious bowl of refreshment. The table is further assorted with a snack platter that consists of 2 of each – patties, rolls, cutlets, spring rolls, and a pair of fried chicken wings. A selection of fruits on a fruit platter is cut and served with a drizzle of freshness.
Exploring the dinner buffet
The menu exposes a large variety of multiple cuisines, ranging from a local touch to international dishes that are appealing to both youngsters and adults alike.
We chose to dig into our starters with a mix of Mediterranean and Arabic appetizers. I insisted on trying out their cashew hummus garnished with the perfect amount of olive oil along with pocket-sized pita bread, a bruschetta with strawberry & cream cheese, and corn drizzled with vinaigrette. My partner tried a mixed palate of beef hummus with pita bread, a delicious cheesy sausage, corn, and cold cuttlefish from the salad platter. We share the battered shrimp and cuttlefish which hit the peak of our appetizers to a kick start.
Moving on to the main course, we had two different craving palates; one of which I chose to enjoy a Japanese fusion, and my partner dived into a variety of taste buds. My plate contended of the crab & spicy sushi roll and the chicken teriyaki roll, assorted with a pickled fruit and two kinds of chili sour dips. My partner’s plate was filled with meaty contents such as lamb chops, medium-well steak, and chicken steak, and to top that, a delicious seafood lasagne with corn rice gave out an excellent taste range.
Ending the dinner circle with desserts, we were picky on the sweet tooth as we had a hearty meal. I indulged in a fruity sensation of a raspberry alias desiccated coconut sweet. Additionally, a chocolate mousse cake and cream cheese-based fruity pudding gave out a decadent finishing to my meal. My partner tried out the soursop vanilla pudding, which did not agree much with his palate, yet he enjoyed the well-steamed bread pudding – this dessert reminds you of the lovable succulents your grandma would prepare!
Our overall experience was indulging in fresh and delicious food. We agree that the chefs have extended their best talents in catering excellent taste for the value for money. There was also a juice buffet on the wine bar.
The delightful experience was touched up with splendid hospitality and authentically engaged with us when necessary. A must revisit if you want a happy date night or a family gathering.
Location: Hilton Colombo – 2 Sir Chittampalam A Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 2
Dinner Buffet (Ifthar complementary) – LKR 5,388/-*
The Iftar platter is inclusive for this buffet from 6 – 7pm for the same price.
Dinner buffet hours: 7 PM – 10.30 PM
Visit their Facebook page @TheHiltonColombo and Instagram page @hiltoncolombo for more information.
For reservations: 0112 492 492
*Prices as at 18 April 2022.