If you are under the impression that hotel buffets are a stiff, formal affair, where diners dress to the nines and snootily sip soup and devour fresh, expensive seafood, then the Palm's Asian Brasserie will dispel the abovementioned stereotype. Located within the Copthorne Orchid Hotel on Dunearn Road , Palm's provides a buffet that is not only affordable, but also incorporates both Asian and Western cuisines to suit even the pickiest eater. At Palm's, casual dining is embraced without compromising food quality.

• The Vibe
  While the façade of the hotel could use some refurbishing, the restaurant itself projects an image of laidback relaxation and unpretentiousness. Yellow mosaic wall framing the open concept kitchen helps to brighten up and add some character to an otherwise dull space. The actual buffet is laid out in the centre of the room, creating a focal point, which is a good thing as it distracts from the somewhat worn out furniture. Despite its flaws, it is still a comfortable restaurant.

• The Food
  With a monthly theme that explores various Asian cuisines, guests at Palm's can be reassured they do not run out of ways to tantalize their tastebuds. Featuring the best of Asia is only the tip of the iceberg though, as a multitude of Western dishes also make an appearance in this buffet. Additionally, an a la carte menu is also available.

  To start off your East-meets-West adventure, why not sample the Lamb Stew, a lovely, rich broth which will doubtlessly remind you of Mum's home cooking. A flavourful dish that can be eaten with either rice or potatoes, the stew contains large chunks of tender lamb. The BBQ Chicken is also a standout dish, its tender meat given a sweet tinge by the honeyed barbecue sauce it is smothered in.

  Do not miss out on the lip-smacking Roast Beef, which is cooked so perfectly it will leave you wanting more. With a perfect pink centre and thin layer of fat, the juicy beef is further enhanced by the accompanying black pepper sauce. The Seafood Au Gratin, on the other hand, leaves much to be desired with its miserly portion of seafood and mushy consistency.

  For an authentic Asian treat, the Chicken Rice is your best bet. Though the rice is slightly dry, Palm's provides a choice of either roasted or steamed chicken, as well as roast pork, with all the trimmings you would expect with the dish. Alternatively, the KL Hokkien Mee is certainly mouthwatering, slightly salty and a guaranteed hit with all diners.

  Palm's Asian Brasserie's signature dish is the Slipper Lobster Hor Fun ($22.80), and for good reason. Available off the a la carte menu, this traditional dish consists of a more than generous portion of crayfish (so-called “slipper lobster”) and rice noodles in a thick, tasty gravy. The crayfish is fresh and succulent, and is complemented nicely by the sliced chili in soy sauce. Though somewhat pricey, the home style taste of this dish is worth every penny.

  Be sure to save some room for dessert after a gratifying meal, as the buffet at Palm's offers a diverse range of cakes, ice-cream and other savouries. While the agar-agar and kueh lapis, made in-house along with the other desserts, are all well and good, the Chempedak Rolls ($4.80 per piece) are the main attraction at Palm's. A seasonal fruit native to Malaysia and known for its sweetness, the Chempedak taste in these cakes is surprisingly subtle, creating a dessert that does not overwhelm. Both aesthetically pleasing as well as delicious, these treats are an appropriate way to end a meal at Palm's.

• The Service
  The service at Palm's is mostly attentive, with mostly older wait staff who have constant smiles on their faces. Always quick to clear dirty dishes and top up iced water, the friendly service is refreshing and much appreciated. Executive Chef Vincent Theong also pops out of the kitchen every now and then to ensure his guests are enjoying themselves.

SD Food Advisor's take on Palm's Asian Brasserie
Many of the dishes featured in the buffet are average at best. However, it is hard to fault the staff's graciousness. At $28.80++ on weekdays and $30.80++ on weekends, it is worth a try. And remember, you can't go wrong with the Slipper Lobster Hor Fun.