Thistle Port Dickson Resort,
KM16 Jalan Pantai,
Teluk Kemang, Port Dickson,
Negeri Sembilan.
Tel: 06-6482828
THIS fasting month, Thistle Port Dickson Resort is offering guests a chance to savour kampung-style dishes unique to Negeri Sembilan.
From Asam Pedas Ikan Pari (stingray in a spicy-sour curry) to Daging Salai Masak Lemak (smoked beef in a coconut-based curry) and an array of traditional kuih, the Ramadan buffet spread at the resort truly reflects local flavours.
General manager John Murphy said the buka puasa buffet centred around Malay cuisine from Negeri Sembilan, particularly the Port Dickson area.
“We have a fantastic buffet spread for guests — one that I’m looking forward to sampling myself.
“Most of the ingredients are locally-sourced and some of the traditional cakes featured on the menu such as kuih lapis are procured directly from villagers,” he said.
Executive chef Badrul Hisham Saidin said traditional fare was popular during the Ramadan period when diners often preferred food that reminded them of home.
“Based on the response from previous years, we find that many of our guests crave for kampung-style food – the dishes that remind them of home.
“Working people find it easier to eat out as many of these dishes such as rendang are time-consuming to prepare,” he said.
He said Negri-style cuisine is renowned for its liberal use of bird’s eye chillies and creamy coconut-based curries, making for flavour some meals.
“Kampung-style food varies according to regions — for example, every state has its own version of rendang.
“At Thistle, we have managed to stick to authentic flavours of the local cuisine as many of our kitchen staff are from the area,” he said.
The extensive menu features a variety of kerabu (Malay-style salads) served with traditional condiments such as sambal belacan, budu (fermented fish sauce) and cencaluk (fermented shrimp paste).
Mains include a variety of meat, seafood and vegetable curries as well as stir-fries and soups.
Soupy delights: Savour the Ayam Masak Lemak Cili Api dish here.
Although the kampung-style dishes are the highlights of the Ramadan buffet menu, lots more are on offer during the period.
Badrul said stalls serving barbequed and grilled items, noodles, pasta, fruit juices and desserts would be set up nightly.
“Diners will definitely be spoilt for choice. The menu will also be rotated daily with five different selections to give guests more variety,” he said.
Roast lamb, a common feature during the Ramadan period, will also be on the menu daily.
Priced at RM78++ per adult and RM34++ per child, the Ramadan buffet at the resort’s Fresh restaurant will be available until Aug 17.
Diners will also be entertained with nightly ghazal and cak lempong performances during the period.
Murphy said Thistle’s proximity to Kuala Lumpur made it an ideal getaway as it was not too far away from the city.
“Thistle is only 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur and it is a great place to head to if you’re looking for a warm welcome amid a relaxing atmosphere.
“Guests can take advantage of our room promotions during the fasting month,” he said.
For only RM379nett, the Ramadan Hot Deal room package includes 2D/1N accommodation in a standard room, and breakfast and dinner for two. The promotion is valid until Aug 18.
A sahur buffet will also be available from midnight until 4am daily for Muslim hotel guests. For reservations, contact the hotel at 06-648 2828.
This is the writer’s personal observation and is not an endorsement by StarMetro.
