Volunteers from WomenZone were among the first guests to sample a new breakfast and brunch experience coming to Bradford city centre, after being treated to a special buffet at Golden Palms.
The Dubai-inspired restaurant held a soft launch of its new breakfast and brunch buffet, giving invited guests the opportunity to sample the food and provide feedback before it officially opens to the public.
For the WomenZone volunteers, the morning offered an opportunity to relax, socialise and enjoy a spread featuring more than 50 dishes, bringing together traditional breakfast favourites with British favourites, alongside Middle Eastern and South Asian flavours.
Guests were welcomed with an extensive selection of breads, including freshly baked croissants and Turkish breads, alongside a choice of eggs ranging from scrambled and boiled to Middle Eastern shakshuka.
There was also a selection of rashers, sausages and flatbreads, while those looking for a more traditional South Asian breakfast could choose from dishes including nihari, biryani, palak, chole and freshly prepared parathas.
A live cooking station allowed diners to have omelettes prepared to their own requirements, while hot puris were also being freshly cooked and served throughout the morning.
The live stations proved to be a key part of the experience, with the restaurant placing an emphasis on food being prepared and replenished throughout the service.
Those with a sweet tooth were equally well catered for, with another live station dedicated to freshly made waffles and pancakes.
Guests could choose from a range of toppings including fresh fruit and sauces such as raspberry, chocolate and pistachio.
For those wanting lighter options, there was an extensive selection of fruit, cold meats and dips, including hummus and avocado-based dips.
Juices, tea and coffee were included in the buffet, alongside cereals and toasters, offering diners the option of a more familiar breakfast as part of the international spread.
WomenZone volunteers said one of the highlights of the morning was the freshness of the food, particularly with dishes continually being prepared and brought out during the service.
One guest said: “At some buffets the food is not always fresh or warm, but here everything was warm and things were coming out fresh in front of our eyes.
“There was so much to enjoy – it’s a really great day for the whole family.”
Management at WomenZone told Asian Standard the invitation was particularly appreciated because it provided an opportunity to recognise the contribution made by its volunteers.
They said: “It was lovely to be invited to come and try the food, especially for our volunteers who give so much back to the community without expecting anything in return.
“This gave us an opportunity to thank them and recognise all of their selfless contributions. It was lovely for everyone to be able to spend the morning together and enjoy the experience.”
When asked to choose their favourite dish, the volunteers struggled to settle on just one, although the shakshuka appeared to be a particular hit among the group.
The soft launch also gave Golden Palms’ management and staff an opportunity to test the new service in a live environment, assess how the buffet operates and gather feedback before welcoming paying customers.
Rather than rushing the launch, management said they want to make sure both food quality and service are at the standard customers expect before confirming an official opening date.
The new offering will add another breakfast and brunch option to Bradford city centre, while reflecting the diverse tastes of the city through a menu which brings together British, continental, Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes.
Golden Palms is expected to announce details of when its breakfast and brunch buffet will officially open to customers soon.
