Weekend brunches are a staple on the Hong Kong social scene, and although we all have our firm favourites, it can be easy to get stuck in a rut, returning to the same spots time and again. While familiarity can be comforting, there is something wonderful about discovering new venues to indulge ourselves in hours of fine food and flowing drinks.
I recently hopped on a ferry to Macau to experience Sunday brunch at Bene, based at the Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel. Macau is my go-to destination when I need some space from the city and a quick break from the concrete jungle for a day. Although it lies on our doorstep, Macau feels like a world away from HK and is the perfect place to take a micro-break from the daily routine.
The setting at Bene is homey, inviting and, like at all good Italian eateries, the kitchen takes centre stage. A spattering of plush booths are dotted around the main buffet station, as well as at the back of the restaurant, ideal for large groups or families to break bread together. The brunch offers a vast variety of fresh seafood and Italian artisanal dishes. With guests milling about to discover the freshly prepared produce, the ambience is lively, exciting and inclusive. As an added treat, guests also have the opportunity to enjoy freshly prepared Mediterranean mains, delivered right to the table throughout the sitting.
At Bene, you can satisfy your cravings for the creamiest cheeses and mouth-watering cold cuts accompanied by an extensive array of antipasti and freshly baked breads. Staples like spaghetti carbonara (prepared on a giant wheel of Castelmagno cheese for an even richer taste) and mushroom risotto are both superbly executed and will leave you feeling full but with some room to try more.
Bene also offers a few standout choices to diners such as braised beef cheek in red wine, slow-cooked marinated beef with mashed potato and wild mushroom lasagne with Montasio cheese.
For the grand finale, the espresso panna cotta and tiramisu are both winners, as well as the forest berries with marsala and zabaglione for a slightly lighter sweet choice. The candy and ice cream stations are fun touches, especially for kids or those just wishing to get a little more creative with their dessert.
If you’re in need of some wine or bubbly to wash down your feast, Bene has a well-stocked wine cellar, with an array of sparkling wines and champagnes.
Sunday brunch at Bene is available from 11:30am–3pm and is priced at MOP458 per adult and MOP100 for kids aged 6–12.
Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel, Sands Cotai Central, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau, +853 8113 1200
