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2011-03-06
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It's funny how I constantly reiterate that I dislike buffets but always end up going for one when a huge discount carrot is dangled in front of me. I guess its the typical kiasu Singaporean mentality that has been instilled in me. So yes, how could I possibly say no to a 39% discount offered by The Line @ Shangri-la hotel?AmbienceThe Line is located at the basement of Shangri la and spells simplistic chic from the moment you step in. The colour scheme is mainly zesty orange and white, emanating
Ambience
The Line is located at the basement of Shangri la and spells simplistic chic from the moment you step in. The colour scheme is mainly zesty orange and white, emanating a sense of vigour and excitement.
Variety
The buffet is divided into 5 different sections - Italian, Indian, Japanese, Chinese, Dim Sum and Desserts, all of which offer about 4 to 5 dishes each save for the dessert section which probably had about 20 items or so (about a third of more were made of some form of kueh). There was also a couple of "live" stations where you can get your popiah, laksa, crepes, pasta etc. Overall, I wouldn't call the spread extensive, but it was a decent spread by many standards.
Quality
Here comes my biggest gripe. Quality of food ranged from below average to average, with probably only a couple of items toeing the above average mark. ie. the sashimi, 1 or 2 of the cakes (most notably The Line Cake). Even the homemade ice cream (vanilla flavour) was bad - bland, melted in a jiffy and where's the sugar?!
Service
Casual and friendly enough, just that the wait staff need to clear the plates and top up the water a little more frequently. Some of the counter staff at the "live" stations could be a little friendlier though.
Value for money
At $56/pax after the 39% discount ($91.81 without), it's still a rip off in my humble opinion, especially with the mediocre quality of food and the notable absence of more expensive items like lobsters, scallops and the likes. I am pretty sure I can get alot better food that can fill me up at that price point. Just a thought, does a 39% discount mean a 39% reduction in quality as well?
See all my pictures at http://www.timelessfacade.com/2011/03/line.html
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