When you stay at a hotel, one of the real delights is the breakfast experience. Many hotels offer the "All You Can Eat" (AYCE) concept for breakfast so guests can enjoy a lavish spread in a luxurious setting.
However, to get the most out of this experience, there are some things you should be aware of. Let's take a look into these aspects in detail.
Firstly, it's essential to know when and where breakfast is served. This information can typically be found in the hotel room's brochure, a booklet, or by asking the hotel receptionist.
Upon checking in, if you've opted for a room with breakfast included, the staff should inform you about these details. Many hotels serve breakfast between 06:00 - 10:00 am, and the venue is usually the hotel's restaurant, often located on the ground floor.
Being aware of these details ensures you don’t miss out, especially if you're on a tight schedule or traveling.
Hotel breakfasts offer a slightly more formal experience than eating at home. It's advisable to dress neatly. Avoid sleepwear, and opt for casual attire like shirts, t-shirts, and trousers.
Some hotels have dress codes; for instance, during my 2019 stay in a renowned Central Jakarta hotel, I was asked to change out of the hotel slippers before entering the breakfast area. While not all hotels have strict clothing guidelines, dressing appropriately helps avoid potential hiccups.
Once you're appropriately dressed, head to the breakfast area. There will be a staff who will typically greet you at the entrance, asking for your room number or reservation details to verify your eligibility.
If there's any confusion about your breakfast inclusion, be sure to notify the staff so they can assist accordingly.
Once inside, a staff member may guide you to a seating area. They might ask your preference, such as sitting in the smoking or non-smoking section. Feel free to choose a table that best fits your needs that consider the size of your party or personal comfort.
Should the hotel offer a buffet-style breakfast, take a moment to explore the various options. Start with the main courses, typically comprising rice, vegetables, and protein sources like meat. Adjacent sections may feature local delicacies such as Bubur Ayam, Lontong Kari, and Mie Ayam.
Egg enthusiasts will appreciate specialized stations where eggs are prepared to order in various styles, often accompanied by sides like sausages and potato wedges. Additionally, you'll find an assortment of breads, cereals, fruits, puddings, and pastries.
Always use the serving utensils provided and refrain from handling food directly. Your table will generally be equipped with necessary cutlery, while plates of varying sizes can be found near the buffet stations. Remember to take what you can finish to minimize waste, you can return for seconds, though.
With your chosen dishes, settle down at your table. Enjoy the ambiance, savor each bite, and appreciate the culinary offerings. Once you're done, the staff will promptly clear your table. It's a kind gesture to acknowledge their service with a smile and a word of thanks.
Certain hotels offer the option of delivering breakfast to your room. This service, commonly termed "Room Service" or "In-Room Dining," is common in hotels that don't employ the AYCE concept for breakfast.
Instead, they serve set menus with items like Fried Rice, Fried Noodles, assorted bread, or eggs. On the other hand, hotels offering buffet-style breakfasts rarely provide room delivery unless under special circumstances, such as guest illness or unforeseen commitments that prevent them from dining in the restaurant.
