Berbuka Puasa with Nenek’s 138 Mouth-watering Malay Specialities at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur

I was told that the JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur always serves its long-standing Nenek’s Malay specialities during Ramadhan.  I had my first taste of this sumptuous spread recently as I had never tried their Ramadhan buffet before.

The lift took me to the 6^th Floor Starhill Conference Centre and as I stepped out of it, lovely tantalizing aromas were already wafting to my nostrils from the pool side.  I followed the aroma trail and there, at the Poolside, stalls have been set up, holding pots and platters of delicious offerings.  There’s a festive air all around as the rustic wooden stalls and decorations reflect a vibrant Malay kampong (village) atmosphere.

So… why “Nenek” (grandmother) in this theme?  Well, it seems the 138 recipes are handed down from the grandmothers of the chefs at the JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur!  In addition to that, recipes of some 30-odd modern interpretations are by the chefs themselves.

My eyes were riveted to the whole lamb on a spit grilling over charcoal, its skin glistening and reflecting the last golden rays of the setting sun.  The smoky delicious aroma from the spit was incredibly tormenting and I couldn’t wait to dig into it.  When I finally did, it turned out to be one of the best-tasting roast lamb I’ve had in a while.  That, and the tender succulent beef satays were my absolute favourites that evening.

 Set-up with a rustic “kampung” feel

 The delectable  Tongkeng Ayam Goreng Chilli 

Moving down the stalls, I helped myself to Rendang Kerang, Daging Salai Masak Lemak & Bachang, Sambal Udang & Petai and Tongkeng Ayam Goreng Chilli – this last item is actually deep-fried bishop’s nose!  Tasted very sinful and it’s not something anyone can over-indulge in despite its tastiness.

Of course a Ramadhan feast is not complete without Ikan Panggang and a variety of rice dishes like Nasi Dagang, Nasi Kandar and Nasi Ayam.  There were also great selections of tandoori meats and seafood, barbecue and noodle stalls.

Of course you really can’t have a Berbuka Puasa session without desserts.  The dessert counters here offer a fine selection of Malay kuihs and if you are on a healthy trend, go for the fresh fruits – you’ll be spoilt for choices here.

 Malay kuihs to sweeten the palate

In keeping with the spirit of “silatul rahim” or building sincere ties during Ramadhan and giving thanks for what we have, the JW Marriott Ramadhan buffet is priced very reasonably at RM75++ at the Poolside and RM65++ at the 6^th Floor Starhill Conference Centre.  Children from 6-12 years dining at either venue may enjoy the buffet at half price.

The Ramadhan buffet is served from 7.00pm – 10.30pm daily from 10 July 2013 till the eve of Hari Raya.

For reservations, please call +603-2719-8666 or email [email protected]