The Legend Returns

The Clipper Lounge at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel has always been known for its high-quality buffet. Recently, it has reopened after a renovation, showcasing a brand-new look. As a food enthusiast, I couldn't wait to try it out. To summarize in advance, it indeed gives a refreshing feeling. There are too many dishes, so I won't describe each one. I'll focus on the signature items or those I think are worth recommending. Chilled seafood is one of the most anticipated items for Hongkongers. The Boston lobster and local abalone are tender yet firm, and the French blue mussels, New Zealand green-lipped mussels, chilled shrimp, and jade whelks are all very fresh. In the first month of reopening, the restaurant will also offer French oysters, which will surely delight everyone. Another classic dish is the highly acclaimed Hainanese chicken rice. The chicken is tender, and the oily rice is moist and fragrant. Some friends even went for seconds. I remember that every time I came here before, I had to have their roast beef. It's tender and flavorful, paired with the increasingly rare Yorkshire pudding, which is my favorite. Fortunately, they have maintained this classic dish and, most importantly, its quality. The hot food options are also impressive. After having some clams, curry, stir-fried vermicelli with scallops, and tiger prawns, I was already quite full. Suddenly, I felt like having some sashimi, perhaps because the weather was too hot! I brought back a bowl of laksa to share with everyone. After a few bites, my attention turned to the various desserts. There are many dessert options, especially cakes, which I love. They have the signature Mandarin cheesecake, rich chocolate cake, the popular tiramisu, brownies, and chocolate cupcakes, all of which I couldn't resist. Ice cream is also a must-try. I highly recommend the English milk tea ice cream. Be sure to have it with a cone; one scoop won't be enough to satisfy you. A bite of truffle chocolate, a sweet macaron, paired with the coffee in my hand, makes for a perfect ending! Restaurant Information: Clipper Lounge Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road Central, Central