Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang has introduced a weekend seafood buffet at Spice Market Café, running every Friday and Saturday from 6PM to 10PM. The dining concept centres on flame-grilled seafood prepared at live stations, combined with international cuisine selections spanning Japanese, Malaysian, Asian, Northern Indian, and Western preparations.
Priced at RM228 nett per adult and RM114 nett per child under 11 years, the buffet positions itself as a comprehensive coastal dining experience. The nett pricing structure means all service charges and government taxes are included, removing calculation ambiguity for diners.
The buffet’s defining feature is guest participation in the grilling process. Fresh seafood sits displayed on ice, allowing diners to select specific pieces and hand them directly to chefs manning charcoal BBQ pits. This interactive element transforms passive dining into active engagement, where guests dictate cooking preferences and watch their selections transform over flame.
Beyond seafood, the spread includes a whole lamb roasted and carved live, adding visual theatre to the evening. The preparation method—whole animal roasting followed by tableside carving—draws from multiple culinary traditions where communal feasting centres on large-format proteins.
Japanese selections include sashimi and sushi, prepared fresh throughout service. Malaysian and Asian cuisines feature regional specialities that reflect Penang’s multicultural food landscape, while Northern Indian and Western offerings broaden the buffet’s appeal across different palate preferences.
Live action counters extend the interactive dining concept. An Asian counter, noodle station, and salad bar allow guests to customise dishes according to taste and dietary requirements. The model recognises that buffet dining increasingly values personalisation over pre-plated standardisation.
The dessert spread acknowledges local preferences through a self-service ice kacang and cendol station—two Malaysian desserts built on shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and various toppings. Pancakes with assorted condiments, chocolate fondue, and an array of sweet treats complete the selection, balancing regional favourites with internationally recognised dessert formats.
Penang’s dining landscape has long been defined by hawker culture and street food traditions, where seafood appears in multiple forms across Chinese, Malay, and Indian preparations. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang’s buffet concept acknowledges this heritage while reframing it within resort hospitality standards—air-conditioned comfort, table service, and ingredient quality controlled through luxury supply chains.
The charcoal grilling method proves particularly relevant. While gas grills offer convenience and temperature control, charcoal imparts specific flavour compounds—smoke, char, and complexity—that many diners associate with authentic barbecue preparation. The resort’s choice to use charcoal BBQ pits rather than modern alternatives suggests commitment to technique over efficiency.
Reservations and enquiries can be made through WhatsApp at 019-409 0460 or via the resort’s dedicated webpage for Spice Market Café. The direct communication channels reflect contemporary booking preferences, where instant messaging often supersedes traditional phone calls or email correspondence.
The seafood buffet runs at Spice Market Café, Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Batu Feringgi, Penang. Every Friday and Saturday, 6PM to 10PM. Pricing: RM228 nett per adult, RM114 nett per child (under 11 years). Children under 6 dine free with paying adults (maximum two children per family). Reservations: WhatsApp 019-409 0460 or visit shangri-la.com/penang/rasasayangresort/dining/restaurants/spice-market-cafe/
Commonly Asked Questions
What days is the seafood buffet available?
The buffet operates every Friday and Saturday evening throughout the year, except on public holiday eves and public holidays.
What time does service start and end?
Service runs from 6PM to 10PM on both evenings.
How much does the buffet cost?
RM228 nett per adult and RM114 nett per child under 11 years old. Nett pricing means all service charges and government taxes are included.
Do children eat free?
Children under 6 years old dine free when accompanied by paying adults. This is limited to two children per family.
Can I choose how my seafood is cooked?
Yes. The live grilling concept allows guests to communicate cooking preferences directly to chefs at the charcoal BBQ stations.
What other food is included besides seafood?
The buffet features a whole roasted lamb carved live, Japanese sashimi and sushi, Malaysian and Asian regional specialities, Northern Indian cuisine, Western dishes, live action counters (Asian counter, noodle station, salad bar), and a dessert spread including ice kacang, cendol, pancakes, chocolate fondue, and various sweet treats.
How do I make a reservation?
Contact or WhatsApp 019-409 0460, or book through the resort’s website at shangri-la.com/penang/rasasayangresort/dining/restaurants/spice-market-cafe/
Where is Spice Market Café located?
Spice Market Café is within Shangri-La Rasa Sayang resort in Batu Feringgi, Penang.
Is there a dress code?
Resort casual attire is appropriate. Smart casual dress is recommended for evening dining.
Can I walk in without a reservation?
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly on weekends when demand is high. Walk-ins are subject to availability.
Is the dining area air-conditioned?
Yes. Spice Market Café is an indoor, air-conditioned restaurant within the resort.
