Mastering the Buffet Brunch

Walking into one of Beijing’s free-flow Champagne brunches makes me feel like a kid in a candy shop. Yet with so many options, I often end up with disjointed plates full of cheesecake and caviar (not a good combo) or sushi and sorbet (slightly better). Determined to end my brunch ADD, I set out to find the secret to brunch success at three of my favorite all-you-can-eat spots.

With over 100 different dishes served every Sunday at the Westin Chaoyang Bubbalicious brunch, even Kobayashi, the hot dog eating champ, wouldn’t be able to sample every offering. Executive Chef Neal Giles shared his marathon eating strategy. “The best advice I can give, and something I practice myself, is to skip breakfast and pace yourself. Start with the salads and healthier foods because later on these will help you to digest.” Like me, Chef Giles admits that he “has something of a sweet tooth” and thus designed the dessert portions to be small and individualized—perfect for diners who want to try them all.

Latest on the brunch scene is the Hilton Wangfujing’s fancy new Fizztastic brunch, set to launch on September 13. At a recent sneak preview, the Taittinger was flowing and the lobster was unparalleled. Executive Chef Yuxiang Gu cannily recommended that the best strategy for Fizztastic is to “try everything on your first visit” and focus on favorites the second time around. With Fizztastic taking over both Vasco’s and Chynna, it strikes a great balance between traditional Chinese dishes and above-par Western fare.

For those who want to live a Sunday brunch experience all day, every day, Café Cha at the Shangri-La is a seven-day-a-week buffet paradise. Communications Manager Cathie Yang told me the best bet is to “focus on the seafood.” While the marine options are definitely top notch, Café Cha is also known for Indian fare like roti and spicy curries.

Finally, while strategic eating will help you make the most of your brunch bonanzas, it probably won’t inspire too much afternoon activity. Laughed Chef Giles, “I bet the majority of people go home after brunch and take naps on the couch.”