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Champagne buffet, tapas, and other good eats at Alfred
All-you-can-eat restaurants have become a trend these past couple of years. It’s now a dime a dozen—you’d see them in high-end hotels and in commercial malls, too.
But not all buffet spreads are created equal. Some have mundane munchies that would fill your belly but not necessarily make for a happy tummy. Others would surpass your gastronomic expectations with its gourmet offerings.
One such place where I would happily not count calories is Alfred, the 24-hour restaurant of Makati Diamond Residences.
Champagne every day, why not?
I immediately liked the simple yet sophisticated vibe of the restaurant when I walked in for lunch the first time I went there. It felt open and spacious because of its high ceiling. It had floor to ceiling neutral drapes with natural sunlight coming in from one side. There were U-shaped upholstered seats for the round tables, stylish lighting fixtures, and an elegant orchid centerpiece in the middle.
The food offerings don’t seem like they’re over-the-top as these were spread out across the dining room. The nearest station in the entrance featured impressive entrées such as lamb, steak, seafood, and pasta. You won’t miss the cochinillo (suckling pig) just across it!
Before I devoured any of the tempting meats, I opted to whet my appetite with a glass of bubbly—it was a champagne brunch after all.
The thought of a champagne buffet excited me since it has become a drink of choice lately. Whether it’s for brunch or dinner, diners may take advantage of the unlimited champagne deal where you can sip on fine brands such as Jean Vesselle, Delamotte, Gosset and Besserat.
I’m no connoisseur, but I liked the clean and crisp taste of the cava. It even became more appealing to me when I learned that these premium grower champagnes espouse sustainable farming. Organic champagne, anyone?
I alternated sipping on my glass of bubbly while having mini bites of the Jamon Iberico, and I must say, they complemented each other very well. The jamon had just the right amount of fat and was not too salty at all; it tasted well with the fruity flavor of the champagne. I could almost imagine that I was in some European bistro spoiling myself with such culinary treats…
The good thing is that we don’t have to fly off to Spain or France for such hedonistic pleasures since Alfred Restaurant has an ongoing champagne buffet promo until the end of March.
It’s really a steal at only P1,000 per person for the weekend buffet, which includes all the fine wine you can drink along with the restaurant’s exceptional entrées. The weekday buffet of champagne and jamon is just P850. While those who prefer à la carte may simply order individual dishes.
Not just for ladies who lunch
Unlike other ordinary buffet restaurants, this one doesn’t feel so overwhelming for me. I didn’t have to get in long lines or dodge people while trying to fill my plate. I didn’t have to shout to get through the noisy chatter. It’s nothing like the usual buffet establishment—it’s more cool and calm in this one.
There were select food choices for discerning diners. If you’re a seafood lover like me, go for the prawns or the baked sea bass that includes a choice of sauces (tip: the butter-based sauce is the best). If you’re can’t live without meat, take your pick from the savory rack of lamb, US Angus rib eye steak, or the roasted pig paired with the pinakbet-flavored rice. There are also a couple of pasta dishes for those who are not afraid of carbs. Although, try to get a serving right away or after they refill it with a new batch so it will still be hot.
At the far side of the restaurant is the area for appetizers where you can get your fill of salad, breads, and cheese. I think I had two trips to the Raclette station, but who’s counting?
I couldn’t get enough of my favorite cheese, especially in its melted form that makes it more gooey and delicious. It’s very rich and creamy so I simply ate it with boiled marble potatoes and pickled onions, and paired it with another glass of champagne.
I could picture my girl friends and I having brunch here, enjoying the food and drinks while having good conversations. Or having a date night with my husband since having unlimited champagne and tapas sounds like a good way to unwind after a long day at work. I’ll just make sure to return before the buffet promo ends.
The Weekend Champagne Brunch (P1,000 per person) will be from January 31 to March 20, 2016, Saturdays and Sundays, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Weekday Champagne Buffet (P850 per person) will be from February 1 to 29, 2016, Mondays to Fridays, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Holiday Champagne Brunch (P2,000 per person) will be from February 13 to 14 and March 26 to 27, 2016, Saturdays and Sundays, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. — BM, GMA News
Alfred Restaurant (317-0999) is at 118 Legazpi Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City. Prior reservation is required.
