Ramadan is always a special time of the year, where food, family, and togetherness come together beautifully. This year, I had the pleasure of attending the Warisan Minang Ramadan Buffet 2026 preview at Makan Kitchen, DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, and honestly, it was an experience that left a lasting impression.

From the moment we stepped into Makan Kitchen, the atmosphere felt warm and inviting. Smiles were everywhere, the energy was lively, and you could truly feel the excitement from the entire food & beverage team as they prepared to welcome guests for the upcoming Ramadan season.

The Warisan Minang Ramadan Buffet features an impressive spread of nearly 300 dishes, thoughtfully curated and showcased across three main kitchens — the Malay Kitchen, Indian Kitchen, and Chinese Kitchen. The variety is extensive, yet well-organised, allowing diners to explore comfortably without feeling overwhelmed.

We began our food journey with a refreshing selection of ulam-ulaman, paired with popiah basah, condiments, and even fried fish. Simple yet satisfying, this section set a great tone for what was to come.

One of the biggest highlights of the night was undoubtedly the whole roasted lamb, beautifully marinated and roasted to perfection. Alongside it were marinated Angus beef and Wagyu beef, which added a touch of luxury to the buffet lineup. Another standout dish was the Salmon à la Cuilibiac, a delightful surprise that complemented the overall spread very well.

At the Malay Kitchen, we enjoyed watching the live preparation of beef and chicken satay, freshly grilled on the spot. The aroma alone was enough to draw a crowd. This section also featured comforting Ramadan favourites such as ketupat palas, nasi lemang, and flavourful soups filled with assorted short ribs and lamb — dishes that truly reflect the essence of traditional Ramadan dining.

Moving on to the Indian Kitchen, the variety continued to impress. From Roti John to the fragrant Royal Saffron Kashmiri Biryani, this section added depth and richness to the buffet experience. One dish I personally enjoyed was the crispy fried soft-shell crab, which stood out as a pleasant surprise.

At the Chinese Kitchen, Chef Hashrul introduced us to beautifully displayed Peking Duck, classic Chicken Rice, and steamed fish served alongside assorted dumplings and pau. It’s also worth noting that many dishes are served on an alternating basis, ensuring diners get to enjoy different selections throughout the Ramadan period.

Seafood lovers will definitely be pleased with the Seafood on Ice section, featuring a variety of fresh seafood items. The Japanese oysters were especially fresh and enjoyable. In addition, the buffet also includes a selection of fresh sashimi, adding even more variety to an already extensive spread.

To balance out the indulgence, the buffet also offers a good range of fresh fruits and beverages, perfect for refreshing the palate after a hearty meal.

As mentioned by the hotel’s General Manager, Mr. Mike, desserts deserve special attention here. The dessert section was beautifully displayed and spacious, making it easy for everyone to explore. One of the highlights was the live kuih ketayap station, where the kuih was freshly prepared on the spot — something I truly enjoyed.

Adding to the overall experience was a dedicated live band, which enhanced the festive atmosphere and made the entire evening feel even more memorable.

With such a packed buffet lineup across three kitchens, I personally selected a few dishes to try — and I must say, I was very satisfied with the overall quality and variety. I especially enjoyed pairing the fresh ulam-ulaman with some of the Malay main dishes, and yes, the fresh oysters are definitely worth trying.

From the extensive variety to the authentic flavours and warm hospitality, the Warisan Minang Ramadan Buffet 2026 at DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru is truly a Ramadan dining experience to look forward to.