The Ultimate Ramadan Buffet at Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel

When it comes to food, I’m a bit of a hopeless diner, more in the can’t-stop-thinking-about-that-meal-I-had-last-week way. And when I received an invitation to experience Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel’s legendary Gempita Ramadan Renaissance Iftar Buffet, complete with celebrity chefs and an endless spread of drool-worthy dishes, well—let’s just say my priorities for March were instantly sorted.

This year, the hotel is bringing in two culinary powerhouses: Sheila Rusly, actress-turned-food-guru, and Zam Akmal, a social media food sensation.

Imagine a buffet so lavish it makes you feel like a king and then throw in a couple of famous chefs to personally present their signature dishes. Yes, it’s that kind of indulgence.

Sheila Rusly will be showcasing her signature recipe, Nasi Daun Jeruk on selected dates (March 7th, 8th, 21st, and 22nd). Inspired by her travels to Jogja, this fragrant rice dish is a heady mix of herbs and spices that will transport your taste buds straight to Indonesia—minus the hassle of booking a flight.

If you somehow miss the chance to taste it at the buffet (which, let’s be honest, would be a crime), you can still try it at her Siang Malam Restaurant. Because once you’ve had a bite, you’re going to want more.

Then there’s Zam Akmal, the man who knows his way around Malaysian spices like a rockstar, showcasing his legendary Daging Goreng Berempah—a fiery, spice-infused fried beef dish that promises to be so good you’ll consider writing poetry about it.

Zam will be making appearances on March 14th, 15th, 28th, and 29th, so mark those dates if you want to see the man himself in action.

But let’s not get too distracted by the star-studded lineup, because the rest of the buffet is no mere supporting act. Expect a glorious spread of traditional and international delights, from the rich Gulai Daging Tetel Nangka Muda to the fiery Ayam Goreng Berlado Hijau, the melt-in-your-mouth Kambing Rendang Cili Padi, and the utterly addictive Kerutuk Daging.

ADVERTISEMENTS

And if that isn’t enough, there’s Roti John Ayam, Ayam Percik, Sup Berempah, and a vibrant Sup Merah to keep you coming back for more.

Of course, no great meal is complete without dessert, and Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel knows how to end things on a high note. Think assorted Malay kuih, swiss rolls, delicate tarts, decadent cakes, and even Middle Eastern treats that will have you questioning whether you’ve accidentally teleported to a bazaar in Marrakech.

It’s the kind of spread that makes you seriously reconsider your life choices—like why you ever thought a single scoop of ice cream was enough for dessert.

The buffet is priced at MYR198 nett per adult and MYR99 nett per child (aged 6-12), with kids below six eating for free (which, if you ask me, is a brilliant excuse to bring your nieces and nephews along).

There are also early bird promotions, including Buy 10 Get 1 Free deals, as well as discounts for Club Renaissance Johor Bahru members, Marriott Bonvoy members, and select bank cardholders.

And if you prefer a more intimate dining experience, the hotel offers private banquet menus starting from MYR118 nett per person for groups of 30 or more—ideal if you want to host a memorable iftar gathering without lifting a finger in the kitchen.

For bookings, you can reach out via WhatsApp at +60177713327, call +6073813322, or reserve your table online at TableApp Cafe BLD. But fair warning—spots are bound to fill up fast, so don’t wait until the last minute, or you’ll be stuck at home, scrolling through photos of other people’s amazing iftar experiences while eating instant noodles.

And trust me, no one wants that.

So, whether you’re in it for the celebrity chefs, the extravagant spread, or just an excuse to indulge in glorious food, Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel’s Gempita Ramadan Renaissance Iftar Buffet is shaping up to be the must-visit dining event of the season.

And if you need me, I’ll be the guy at the buffet, trying (and failing) to resist a third plate of Daging Goreng Berempah. See you there!

About The Author

Ed Junaidi

Ed Junaidi is a seasoned Online Editor at Gaya Travel Magazine, where he has been sharing his passion for travel for over 15 years. A dedicated globetrotter, Ed cherishes the chance to explore the world, uncovering new experiences and insights with every journey. His compelling contributions to Gaya Travel Magazine earned him a prestigious residency grant from the Mexican government in 2015 through Media Residency Program. Through his work, Ed continues to inspire readers with stories that capture the essence of travel and cultural discovery.

See author's posts