Best Hotel Buffets in Singapore

What to expect at hotel buffets in Singapore

Hotel buffets in Singapore are a favourite with locals for birthdays, family get-togethers and festive meals. You pay one set price and eat as much as you like during your booking slot. Most spreads mix international food with local dishes. That makes a buffet an easy way to try many Singapore flavours at once, in air-conditioned comfort.

Typical buffet stations

• Seafood on ice: may include prawns, crab, mussels and oysters. It is often the busiest counter.
• Japanese: sushi and sashimi, sometimes sliced to order.
• Carving station: roast meats such as beef or lamb, cut while you wait.
• Local dishes: laksa, satay, chicken rice or chilli crab, depending on the day.
• Curries: Indian and other Asian curries with rice, naan or prata.
• Desserts: cakes, ice cream and kueh, which are small local cakes often made with rice flour and coconut.

Menus change often, and some buffets run themed nights. Check what is on before you book.

The hotel buffets on this list

Colony and Edge both serve international buffets in the Marina Bay and CBD area. They are handy if you are staying near the bay or plan to visit Gardens by the Bay. Line serves an international buffet in the Tanglin area, a short ride from Orchard Road.

Cafe Mosaic is in the Bugis and Kampong Glam area. Atrium Restaurant is in the Tiong Bahru and Alexandra area. Shin Minori, in Orchard and River Valley, is different. It serves a Japanese spread. Fans of Japanese food can also browse the Japanese restaurants page.

How to choose and book

Lunch, dinner or weekend

Weekday lunch is usually the cheapest slot. Dinner often adds more seafood and costs more. Weekend and public holiday prices tend to be the highest. Some hotels also run a weekend brunch buffet.

Rough prices

As a rough guide, a hotel buffet costs from around S$60 to well over S$150 per adult. Menus often show prices with "++". This means a service charge and GST, Singapore's goods and services tax, are added. Children usually pay less, and some hotels let young children eat free. Prices change, so check the hotel's website before you go.

Book ahead for busy dates

Buffets fill up fast around Christmas, Chinese New Year and Mother's Day. Book a week or more ahead for these dates. Most hotels take bookings online or by phone.

Tips for a good buffet meal

• Walk round first. See every station before you fill your plate.
• Take small portions. You can always go back, and it cuts food waste.
• Arrive on time. Many buffets run set sittings, and a late start means less time to eat.
• Share dietary needs. Tell the restaurant about allergies when you book.
• Halal food. If you need halal food, ask the hotel and look for the MUIS halal certificate. MUIS is the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore. See Halal Food for more.
• Check what drinks are included. Coffee, tea and soft drinks may or may not be part of the price.
• Dress smart casual. It works almost everywhere. Avoid beachwear.

Planning a stay around a buffet? Browse 5-Star Luxury hotels, or find ideas under Staycations.

FAQs about hotel buffets in Singapore

How much is a hotel buffet in Singapore?

Expect from around S$60 to well over S$150 per adult, before service charge and GST. Weekday lunch is usually cheapest. Prices change, so check the hotel's website.

Do I need to book a hotel buffet?

Yes, for weekends, public holidays and festive dates. Weekday lunches are easier, but a booking still saves a wait.

Are there halal hotel buffets in Singapore?

Some hotel restaurants hold halal certification. Ask the hotel and look for the MUIS halal certificate before you book.

Do children pay full price at buffets?

Usually not. Most hotels charge less for children, and the price often depends on age. Check the rules when you book.

What local dishes can I find at a hotel buffet?

Many spreads include laksa, satay, chicken rice or chilli crab. To try the hawker versions too, see Hawker Favourites.