Serena Brasserie looks mighty spiffy following its refurbishment.
Even if you're not a fan of buffets, the a la carte selection here is worth investigating.
Pumpkin & basil soup. Creamy comfort food. Mopped up every drop with the bread.
Mushroom soup. Many notches above Campbell's version, thanks to hearty chunks of robust-tasting mushrooms and the potent scent of thyme & truffle oil.
Rillette of duck confit with tomato & caramelized onions. The meat was tender enough, while the recipe tasted rather Chinese, like a homemade herbal stew.
Open ravioli of tiger prawns with asparagus veloute. Break the poached quail eggs for a geyser of sinful cholesterol that perfectly partners the saffron-tinged pasta.
B&B Empire (cognac, dom benedictine, orange juice, red wine) & Kir (creme de cassis, white wine). Full-bodied booze to keep our spirits up.
Serena Brasserie,
Nikko Hotel.