Sunday brunch is no casual affair in the house of Estate. Pulling out all the stops, Hilton Orchard’s residential all-day dining restaurant delivers a mouth-watering international spread that satiates all ages. With buffets making their highly anticipated comeback, this grand Sunday champagne brunch ($158) of epic proportions makes for an indulgent afternoon. Word of advice? Wear looser pants cause you’re gonna need them – it is after all Estate’s largest buffet spread yet.
First order of business, the fresh seafood section
That’s where the star-studded cast of succulent seafood like giant tiger prawns, snow crabs, red-hued yabbies and fat scallops lie on blocks of ice. The highlight, however, is the live-oyster station where briny creamy morsels are shucked upon request. A clear slice of paradise for oyster fans. Choose from Canadian, Irish or Fine de Claire oysters but since it’s unlimited – or if you’re anything like us – just have a go at all three.
You won’t need your passport for this round-the-world trip
The international buffet stations brings your tastebuds on a journey around the world, all in one spot. The creamy cheesy Maine lobster thermidor strangely reminds of a business class meal aboard Singapore Airlines; then a show-stopping traipse around Asia with an entire stuffed suckling pig, juicy yet numbing Sichuan mala yabbies, spicy garlicky Hong Kong-style ‘Bi Feng Tang’ mud crabs, earthy succulent lamb vindaloo and moreish Kerala-style coconut curry prawns. We're then transported to London where Sunday roast favourites such as the truffle laced beef wellington and a juicy roast of wagyu prime rib with glistening Yorkshire puddings lie gloriously under heating lamps.
Turn it up into a boozy afternoon affair
For a truly bottomless experience, simply top up $30 – it's bang on value ($188). Bubbly comes in the form of free-flow Laurent Perrier champagne and to ensure you quaff till your heart’s content, the diligent crew rarely let your flutes go empty. Not a fan of bubbly? There’s also a surprisingly approachable cabernet sauvignon to pair with the robust flavours, a classic fruit-forward chardonnay if you prefer white wines, a DIY cocktail station to build your own bloody Marys and Lillet spritzes to pair.
Pair the vinos with fine cheese and charcuterie
A royally indulgent treat for cheese lovers. Think 32 varietals of artisanal cheeses from soft, hard, and blue on display with exclusive premium cheeses like the 16-month Comté, Tomme de Savoie Fermière, Roquefort, and Bleu d'Auvergne. Our top picks were the creamy mushroomy Chaource, the soft and nutty Valecay, and the inimitable Tomme des Grand Causses. There’s also a cold cut section showcasing a range of terrines and charcuterie including a 25kg Mortadella ham sliced upon request.
Dining with kids?
Keep them at bay while you enjoy your libatious afternoon, simply by making the most of Estate’s kid-friendly area. A rotating series of activities from magicians, pottery making, face painting and colouring are thoughtfully planned. During our visit, we even witnessed a tyranny of kids quietly keeping themselves entertained – for all of us, it is safe to say anything goes if the little ones are not running around and screaming at the top of their lungs.