New Year at Carousel

Right after church on New Year's day, we all met up at Royal Plaza's Carousel to have our customary new year lunch. We are, generally, not superstitious but it's our own way of saying that we are looking forward to a plentiful year ahead. Who am I kidding? Really, it's just our excuse to pig out without feeling guilty.

Not a lot has changed since we were there last, the waffle station that we were so looking forward to was sadly still missing. Just the same, I took photos of their dessert spread as it always makes me happy. 

New additions to the buffet spread are the huge paella pot, three chocolate fondue stations and the different ice cream flavors. Other than that, it was more or less the same. I have to say that we didn't find it as exciting as before. 

They have the Alice and Wonderland theme this year and there was the Mad Hatter checking up on guests. 

Ching also mentioned that it was Abby's birthday so when she got back to her seat, she was greeted with a birthday song number. 

And here's our customary group shot at the hotel's grand staircase. 

New Year 2011: Carousel

In anticipation of a bountiful year, we celebrate the first day of the year by having a buffet. It has become a sort of tradition to go to Carousel.

Here we are with Joy, January 2009:





With a bigger group, January 2010:





This year, we weren't able to make a reservation on new year's day so we had no choice but to go on the 2nd. It turned out to be a blessing since most of us were dead tired on the first.





As usual, selections were wide and varied. We were just a bit disappointed since the waffles that we were most looking forward to have been replaced with pita and wraps. Also, the carving station only had lamb and turkey, no roast beef! Nevertheless, the food was still delicious. My only other beef (forgive the pun) is that the slipper lobsters were not replenished so I was able to have just one serving.







As with any buffet, the highlight of my meal are the desserts.











Service was a lot better this time around, our plates were cleared in no time and the chefs were very friendly and accommodating. If only the same can be said about a staff in the lobby.

Here's our customary group shot: