Beijing Bites - St Regis Champagne Brunch

Price: 488RMB (+100RMB for free flow Champagne)

Time: 11:30am to 3:00pm Sunday

Booking: Required

My first experience of a Champagne brunch was in China.  There are a number of them about and it is deciding which one to go to that can be difficult.  They are all extravagant and look impressive but differ in their quality.  St Regis is my recommendation as it balances the quality and quantity scale just right.

The seafood selection is fantastic with oysters cracked open to order, a small selection of Sushi, cracked snow crab and lobster tails.  It even has the Chinese favourite of Abalone.  A first starter of fresh seafood followed by a second starter of roast duck pancakes are perfect accompanied with your second glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne.

I always have the issue of filling up on starters and leaving little room for mains.  Barbecued meats, Chinese classics and European roasts are all prepared by individual chefs and I could not point fault at any of them.  The grill station is brilliant and you can select from a great selection of raw meats and have them prepared for you.  Mains number 2 can be a small bowl of noodles prepared how you choose or go straight into the immense cheese board counter!  Cold cuts of hams, a selection of cheese and sweet relishes with super fresh baked breads.  Depending on your age that makes either a main course or a dessert!  I decided it was dessert number one followed by flaming Crepe Suzettes also made whilst you watch.

It is an ideal brunch; our Champaign flutes never ran dry as somebody was always on hand to refill them; food tastes fresh and recently prepared and specialities come to your table every now and then hot out of the kitchen.  If you are looking for a real treat and cannot decide on which brunch to go to, I recommend St Regis.  It will not disappoint.