It’s going to be a gastronomic treasure-trove this Christmas and New Year at the Sheraton Imperial, and you’re sure to want to join in the fun. Villa Danieli, Celestial Court and Essence are offering delectable delights for the festive season, and there’s something for everyone.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Essence promises to be an outstanding experience. In addition to all the regulars like Oyster Shooters, Sushi, my personal favourite Hot smoked Salmon and a galaxy of hot and cold dishes, there are new creations including Butternut Squash Risotto and Pan-seared Salmon with Apple Butter Sauce.
If you prefer a more Oriental Christmas Eve, Celestial Court will certainly suit your palate. Some of the surprises in store are Wok Fried Grouper, tasty Soft Shell Crab, tangy Deep-fried Cheese Balls and Lamb and Leek Dumplings (chewy on the outside and tender on the inside, exactly the way I like them). In addition to the live station buffet, diners can also choose from the special a la carte menu.
Christmas Eve at Villa Danieli will thrill your taste buds. Two of the delicious choices created for the four-course set-dinner menu are Marinated Cod Medallion with White Asparagus, Sautéed Spinach and Saffron Vanilla Hollandaise and King Prawns with Tomato, Raspberry and Cardamom Coulis.
I tasted one of the heavenly desserts from this meal, an inspired combination of Cinnamon and Apple Tarte Tatin with Goat Cheese and White Pepper Mouse served with Toffee Sauce. This elegant dinner is heartily recommended.
Along with all the Essence favourites, there are several unique dishes, including Pepper-crusted Duck and Rack of Lamb with Lentils. Sam enjoyed the contrapuntal qualities of crispy endive and soft potato in the Endive Salad with Potato and Beef Brisket and I found the Fresh Sea Bass with Orange, Avocado and Green Onions absolutely phenomenal.
Out of the many delicious desserts, I recommend the Chocolate Truffle Mousse Tart. It’s dark and sensuous and is perfectly paired with a zingy, fresh raspberry.
Villa Danieli is having a Christmas Day BBQ by the Pool, with reduced prices when booked through the link below. The Herb Roasted Lamb Chops were smoky and rich, while the Sea Bass and Salmon Tartare were lightly seasoned to preserve their delicate flavours.
There are more treats in store for New Year’s Eve at Essence, including Braised Cola BBQ Beef Ribs with Mango and Baked Salmon rolled with Asparagus.
I especially enjoyed the Spanish and Ricotta Tortellini with Tomato Habanero Salsa and Gorgonzola Sauce. The spicy salsa chased the sauce and complimented rather than overpowered the tortellini. Sam thought this combination was a real star too!
We tasted two absolutely superb creations that will be served at Villa Danieli on New Year’s Eve. I have five stars in my notes next to the Chervil and Almond Risotto with Seared Japanese Scallop Deglazed in Brandy, but I must say that the Thyme and Szechuan Pepper Gratin Cod with White Asparagus and Pistachio Squash Custard was equally fantastic.
One dessert must-try is the Peach Tarte Tatin with Greek Yogurt, Goat Cheese Mousse and Mango Purée.
Last, but certainly not least, New Year’s Eve at Celestial Court will continue to delight diners. The Minced Fish, Asparagus and Mushroom braised in Hot and Sour Broth was brilliant and the Marinated Sea Perch with Assam Curry Sauce was bursting with enthusiasm; and remember, this is only a small sample of their unique and creative menu.
Reason to Visit: For the ambience in all the restaurants, the exquisite care taken over the preparation and presentation of dishes, the originality of the menus but primarily for the delicious food.
The Sheraton Imperial Hotel
Jalan Sultan Ismail
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia