Yesteryears Old Time Favourites Buffet Dinner @ Sarkies, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang

Let’s take a trip down memory lane—where comfort food meets nostalgia, served in the elegant halls of Sarkies at the historic Eastern & Oriental Hotel. Last night, I had the pleasure of attending the Yesteryears Old Time Favourites Buffet Dinner, and let me tell you, it’s everything you didn’t know you needed.

First Impressions

Walking into Sarkies is like stepping into a time machine—colonial charm, soft lighting, and that classic vibe that instantly puts you in a good mood. Think heritage elegance meets beloved comfort dishes. Before the feast began, I couldn’t resist soaking in the atmosphere and taking a quick mental snap for my memory jar (and the ‘Gram, of course).

Appetiser & Cold Section

We kicked things off with a charming array of old‑school appetizers. Imagine bite‑size popiahs, creamy potato salads in that old‑fashioned mayo your grandma used to whip up, and a station dedicated to kerabu and ulam‑ulam tossed with fragrant sambal belacan. Nostalgic? Check. There was something about those pre‑war favourites that just made me want to hum an old tune as I took my first bite.

Also you must not forget to try their handmade assorted sushi available on the spread. 

One must not miss the seafood on ice, especially if you are a big fan of all the juicy prawns, succulent mussels, freshly shucked oysters, and sweet crab claws that practically taste like the ocean in every bite.

MAIN HIGHLIGHTS

The real fun began at the hot dishes and carving stations.

Signature Roast Duck – Picture tender slices of meat just dripping with flavour, carved right in front of you. This is definitely must have in Sarkies if you are a frequent diner here, most Penangites know that they serve one of the best roast duck in Penang.

Live Carving Station – Imagine juicy roast beef, aromatic roast lamb, and golden roast chicken carved fresh before your eyes. A true feast for meat lovers, each slice is packed with flavour and best enjoyed with classic sauces and sides that complete the experience.

Crab Masak Lemak Chilli Padi, Oxtail Stew with Root Vegetables, Braised Vegetables with Mushroom, Buttered Mussels – Every classic hugged your soul with every spoonful. If you tell me there's nothing to eat in the buffet line, you are definitely not looking properly—or maybe your taste buds went on holiday without telling you! 

Salmon Head Curry – Always one of the most popular dishes in Sarkies. You can have the huge Salmon Head by yourself, or pair it with a bowl of Jasmine White Rice that is available on the spread. 

Live Grilled Corner – Chicken, beef, lamb, salmon —and yes, the slight char was just right. Dip in the homemade sauce would be just perfect. Especially when you can have all kinds of different meats grilled to perfections in wide variety of dips available.

Classic Beef Wellington 

Hainanese Chicken Chop

 Juicy Shepherd’s Pie – A hearty classic layered with savoury minced meat in rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection. Every spoonful is warm, comforting, and bursting with homely flavour.

Noodle & Action Stations - Remember that comfort‑food feeling of winding through noodle carts? Sarkies brought it back with action stations where you could have all kinds of pasta with your choice of sauce and pasta, also don't forget about piping hot char koay teow, prawn noodles or Penang Assam Laksa in the noodle station made just for you—complete with generous prawns and that wok‑hei. aroma. 

Sweet Endings

Now, if you thought the dinner was over after the mains, think again. The dessert spread deserves its own spotlight:

Nyonya kuih-muih— pulut tai tai, kuih talam, sweet little treats that remind you, “life doesn’t have to be complicated.”

Classic cakes, creamy pies, and ice kacang—cooling, sweet, with a dash of nostalgia.
A fun loop around the dessert table turned into a mini adventure in itself. 

Final Thoughts 
This dinner was more than just food—it was a nostalgic journey through old‑time favourites, lovingly reimagined in a refined setting. Sarkies’ Yesteryears buffet honours the classics while giving them a fresh new life. Whether it's the satay sizzling on the grill or the creamy rendang on your plate, each bite felt like a familiar hug.

If you’re craving comfort, warmth, and a dash of heritage—book your table now at https://www.myfunnow.com/en/funbook/3368181098949/branch#/