Raikan Rasa at The Tamarra – a seaside Ramadhan buffet like no other
Bayu Nusantara berbisik rindu,
Aroma dapur menjemput pulang,
Hidangan Tamarra kasih bersatu,
Raikan Rasa kenangan gemilang.
How do I gather the right words to capture a feeling so intrinsic, a memory so deep-rooted – one stirred awake and propelled forward through a dining adventure at Tamarra? An experience woven from taste and time, where every flavour carries echoes of the past, every aroma rekindles longing and every bite whispers love. Even after the final spoonful, after the last note of Getaran Jiwa fades, after the cool sea breeze traces its farewell across my face – the night lingers, golden and etched upon the heart.
The moment I stepped into Tamarra, I knew I was in for a real treat. Here, under a sky dusted with stars, guests broke fast in the company of kindred spirits. The lavish spread, featuring an array of local and wanderlust-worthy offerings, pays homage to cherished recipes. No fusion for the sake of novelty, no dishes that dazzle the eyes but disappoint the palate – just time-honoured flavours, prepared with love.
From left: Doris Lim, Arshad Kamarulzaman with Tamarra's award-winning chefs – Rahman Tamaris and Ahmad Syukri, and Adrian Cheah.
This grand 4th edition of Tamarra’s Ramadhan buffet returns stronger than ever. This year, "Raikan Rasa – Buffet by the Sea" embraces the familiar, savoury traditions that make this festive season one of warmth and togetherness. Each dish is a gentle invitation to rekindle nostalgia – of family feasts, of shared laughter, of simple joyful moments.
At the heart of this feast lies a celebration of roots and revelry. The much-loved Nasi Kerabu Udang Lagenda is a feast for both the palate and the eyes – vibrant blue rice, crowned with an abundance of shredded herbs and crisp vegetables, framed by solok lada (stuffed green chillies) and plump freshwater prawns. This beloved dish is best enjoyed with the side condiments served alongside the rice, as well as salt fish and your choice of sambals or curries.
Equally mouth-watering is the Nasi Briyani Saffron Taj Mahal, rich in aroma and spice. For meat lovers, the Mediterranean-style slow-roasted whole lamb is a must-try, its tender, flavourful meat falling effortlessly off the bone. Served with a selection of condiments, it promises a deeply satisfying offering.
Guests can indulge in an array of choices as they explore the buffet spread, where an enticing selection of canapé, starters, keropok (crackers), ulam-ulaman kampung (local greens), kerabu (salads) and bold sambal condiments set the stage for a truly sedap-gila journey. Among the must-try salads are Kerabu Udang Bakar (grilled prawn salad), Kerabu Belangkas Bersamaan Taugeh & Jantung Pisang (horseshoe crab with bean sprouts and banana blossom salad) and Kerabu Betik Muda Bersamaan Tembikai & Itik Salai (young papaya with watermelon and smoked duck salad).
Classic soups, hearty noodle dishes and cherished heritage favourites come together in a harmonious marriage of flavours and textures. Expect mouth-watering creations such as Ketam Sambal Tumis Petai Sri Rampai (flower crab curry), Itik Salai Masak Lemak Cili Api (smoked duck in coconut-based curry), Ayam Goreng 7 Rempah Kampung (fried chicken with seven spices) and Kurma Daging (beef korma), each evoking the soulful essence of Malay culinary heritage. It is reassuring to know that these irresistible dishes are specially crafted by Tamarra's award-winning chefs.
Beyond tradition, the buffet offers a world of flavours with live cooking stations. Savour Mediterranean, Italian and Mexican delights, or explore the bold tastes of Bangkok, Chennai and Oriental cuisine. Do not miss the heart-warming traditions of Sajian Melayu. Star attractions include Spaghetti, Tacos and Quesadillas, Som Tam and Miang Pla (Thai green papaya salad and betel leaf-wrapped fish), Murtabak and Thosai, Char Koay Teow and Laksa, Sushi and Wagyu Ramen, as well as Gulai Kawah Kepala Ikan and Sup Gearbox (spicy fish head curry and slow-cooked bone marrow soup).
Prepare to be dazzled by a kaleidoscope of sweet temptations – sinfully delicious kuih-muih, decadent cakes, delicate tarts, silky panna cotta, creamy ice cream and not-to-be-missed selection of bubur manis (sweet porridge desserts). Treat yourself to desserts such as Kek Batik (layered cake), a flowing chocolate fountain and the lemak-goodness of Serawa Durian (durian coconut cream dessert). Just remember to pace yourself – a whopping 180 scrumptious delights await discovery! To keep things exciting and fresh, a new set of main courses will be introduced every week.
Whether you choose to dine al fresco under the soft glow of fairy lights, in the newly erected air-conditioned dining hall of the "glass house" by the sea or the refined indoor comforts, each setting offers its own charm and allure. As you enjoy your meal, a live band weaves magic through melodies of yesteryears. "Tiada kata secantik bahasa ..." The lyrics slip through the evening like a secret between lovers. Time slows, worries melt and in that serene pause, nothing else matters – only the joy of Raikan Rasa, the celebration of the simple pleasure of life.
So come hungry, come joyful, come as you are. For the best feasts are never just about food – they are about the family and friends who share them with you.
PS: A heartfelt thank you to Arshad and his charming better half, Ms Bella for the invitation to the festive launch of Raikan Rasa at The Tamarra.
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Written and photographed by Adrian Cheah
© All rights reserved
4 March 2025
Raikan Rasa at The Tamarra
Buka Puasa Ramadhan buffet
16 March – 7 April 2025 from 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Normal price is RM 138 nett/pax for adults, senior citizens: RM 113, children: RM 93
Group Bookings (30 pax and above): RM 113 per pax
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Day 1 Special (16 March 2025): RM98 nett (limited offer!)
Exclusive early bird: Till 7 March 2025 or until early bird vouchers are all sold out!
RM 120.00 nett/pax for adults
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Menu 1: 1st week: 16 March – 21 April 2025
Menu 2: 2nd week: 22 March – 27 March 2025
Menu 3: 3rd week: 28 March – 2 April 2025
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The Tamarra
36A, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, 10500 George Town, Penang
T: +6011–1248 7582 / +6010–560 0982
Congratulations to Chef Ahmad Syukri and Chef Rahman Tamaris from Tamarra for winning the Gold Award for "Malaysia Malay Heritage Cuisine" at the Battle of the Chefs 2024. Kudos also to The Tamarra for being named "Leading Themed Restaurant of the Year" at the inaugural Asian Tourism and Hospitality Awards 2022–2023.