Arshad H.
Yelp
Nestled within the embrace of The Ritz-Carlton, Colony gracefully unfolds as an epicurean tapestry, weaving a symphony of flavors that tantalize the palate and captivate the senses. Having garnered rave reviews, securing a reservation here akin to snagging a wishbone during the first bite of a Christmas turkey, bordered on the miraculous. My last-minute serendipity, however, paved the way for an experience as extraordinary as the tales whispered of old.
The buffet itself was a symphony of culinary delights. Glistening seafood, nestled on beds of crushed ice, beckoned with their briny allure, while a kaleidoscope of colorful salads promised an explosion of flavors. Plump, jewel-toned cheeses and charcuterie slices of unparalleled finesse awaited alongside steaming baskets of dim sum. For the more adventurous palates, aromatic curries whispered of faraway lands, their spice-laden warmth transporting diners to vibrant Indian bazaars. Those seeking comfort found solace in bowls of freshly prepared pasta, each strand a canvas for vibrant sauces that sang with Italianate passion. A noodle station offered comforting bowls of laksa, the rich coconut broth laced with the fragrant whisper of lemongrass, and steaming bowls of pho, the translucent rice noodles cradling slivers of succulent beef.
And then, there was dessert. A veritable fantasia of sugary delights, it was a playground for the inner child. Tarts, glistening like jewels, held secrets of citrus and cream. Chocolate pralines, each a decadent bite, whispered promises of pure, unadulterated bliss. Waffles, crisp and golden, awaited their baptism in a molten river of maple syrup, while onde-onde, those little orbs of chewy rice cake, offered a delightful textural contrast. Cookies, macarons, pandan cake, and a kaleidoscope of other confections transformed the dessert station into a Willy Wonka wonderland for grown-ups. Each bite was a tiny explosion of flavor, a testament to the pastry chef's artistry.
Of course, no experience is flawless. The tandoori turkey, while flavorful, did veer towards the drier side, a minor misstep in an otherwise flawless performance. The dessert selection, while impressive, could have boasted a wider variety, as could the hot and seafood items. But these were mere whispers of discontent, quickly drowned out by the resounding chorus of delight that played on my palate.
At 88 SGD, or roughly $68 USD, the buffet is an investment. Add taxes and the ever-present nudge of gratuity, and you're looking at a cool 105 SGD, or $79 USD. But for an experience that transcends mere sustenance, that elevates the act of eating to an art form, Colony is worth every penny.
And as for the Ritz-Carlton itself, well, let's just say that its understated elegance might not quite live up to the opulent standards of its younger, flashier counterparts. Think of it as a comfortable old shoe, well-worn but undeniably reliable, rather than a pair of sky-high stilettos that might leave you with blisters at the end of the night.
In the end, Colony's buffet may not be the undisputed champion of Singapore's smorgasbord scene. That crown, for now, rests on the shimmering head of Rise at Marina Bay Sands. But for a delightful, meticulously crafted, and utterly satisfying culinary journey, Colony stands tall, a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most exquisite experiences are found not in the grandest settings, but in the quiet corners, where passion and artistry weave their magic on a plate.
