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For this New Year’s Eve, we decided to celebrate with a feast at Poppy’s Hotel in Madurai, renowned for its special New Year Buffet. Conveniently located near Matta Thavani, the hotel is easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
A Festive Welcome
As we stepped inside, the festive vibes were unmissable. The entrance walkway was beautifully decorated with sparkling lights, creating a cheerful mood for the celebrations. A display board outside showcased the buffet menu along with pricing details for adults and kids, building up our excitement.
Elegant Ambience
Upon entering the restaurant, we found the buffet arrangements still in progress as we had arrived early. The wait wasn’t an issue as it gave us time to soak in the calm and elegant ambiance. The space was adorned with subtle decorations and soft lighting, setting the perfect tone for a delightful dining experience.
The Culinary Journey Begins

Once the buffet was ready, we eagerly explored the feast, starting with the salads.
- Chicken Peppery Salad: Vibrant with avocados, bell peppers, and olives, topped with refreshing cucumber roundels.
- Greek Salad: A beautifully prepared classic.
- Unique Chaat Dish: Green olives, cherry tomatoes, and skewered meat creatively presented on toothpicks.
- Other Highlights: Pasta salad, black and white channa salad with feta cheese, and coastal egg salad.
Non-Veg Delights
The non-veg counter offered a variety of flavorful dishes:
- Mutton Varka Curry: Rich and spicy, with tender meat.
- Cheesy Creamy Chicken Kebab: Topped with vibrant tomatoes, perfect for indulgence.
- Honey Chili Squid: A rare treat with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- Achi Meen Kulambu: A tangy curry with tiny fish, reminiscent of coastal flavors.
- Star of the Main Course – Turkey Biryani: Mild aroma and perfectly spiced rice made it a comforting favorite.
Vegetarian Treats
Vegetarian dishes were equally enticing:
- Paneer Tawa Masala: Creamy and flavorful.
- Palak Makkai Mattar: A rich green curry with spinach, corn, and peas.
- Urulai Kaara Roast: Perfectly spiced potatoes.
- Kerala-Style Erissery: Pumpkin topped with coconut.
- North Indian Staples: Veg Shahi Kurma and Dal Makhani paired wonderfully with soft naans and tandoori rotis.
Oriental and Italian Sections
We loved the fusion of flavors from around the world:
- Ginger Teriyaki Glazed Veggies: A colorful mix of baby corn, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
- Mee Goreng Noodles: Perfectly balanced flavors.
- Hawaiian Baked Veggies: Pineapple chunks added a delightful sweetness.
- Spaghetti Napolitana: Classic Italian goodness.
- Dry Fruit Pulao: A fragrant, flavorful rice dish.
The Grand Finale – Desserts
The dessert counter was a feast for the senses:
- Strawberry Cheese Pie: Mild yet enjoyable.
- Pistachio Tarts: A perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
- Bread Saraya: Melt-in-the-mouth goodness.
- Rava Kheer: Authentic and flavorful.
- Chocolate Mousse: A decadent treat that was beautifully presented.
A Memorable Experience
Dining at Poppy’s Hotel wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience to remember. Each dish was crafted with care, making it a delightful start to the New Year. For just ₹1000 per adult, the buffet was a wonderful way to celebrate the occasion.
If you’re ever in Madurai, I highly recommend trying out Poppy’s Hotel’s buffet. It’s worth every bite!
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