Finding a satisfying weekend escape without leaving the city is easy at the International Buffet Hi-Tea at Thyme Out Café, located within the AICB Centre of Excellence in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Serving both buffet and ala carte selections daily except Sundays, Thyme Out Café recently secured the title for Best Malay Cuisine at the prestigious HAPA Awards. Adding to the triumph, Executive Chef Mohamad Juzaili Shah earned the Chef of the Year award for his exceptional artistry and leadership.
A Spread That Goes Far Beyond Hi-Tea
Although the Saturday spread is titled a “Hi-Tea” buffet, the offerings go far beyond the usual sandwiches and petite desserts. One of the most notable highlights is the roasted lamb which truly anchors the entire experience.
Unlike standard buffet service, the chefs here carve the meat in stages to ensure constant replenishment.
Each portion is sliced and finished on the grill pan, ensuring every serving remains hot and juicy for arriving guests rather than sitting out to cool. This attention to detail results in meat that is tender, flavorful, and highly recommended.
Coiled Lamb Sausage is another dish you shouldn’t miss. Savory and rich while simmering in a deep gravy, this preparation allows you to enjoy the sausage as a substantial main course.
Since the gravy is so flavorful, it is best enjoyed with a side of bread to soak up every drop.
Nyonya Curry Laksa is another standout highlight. The rich blend of spices and coconut milk brings a sense of heritage and authenticity to the experience.
Building your own bowl with a selection of favourite ingredients adds a personal touch, making each spoonful both comforting and full of character.
Next, explore the hot dishes section featuring local favorites with bold, familiar flavors. Let’s start with the fresh greens.
Among the local favorites, Ayam Masak Merah serves as a authentic representation of Malaysian comfort food with a well-balanced blend of sweet and spicy flavors.
Each strand of noodle in the Tom Yam Fried Vermicelli is coated in a vibrant spice blend that remains light yet deeply aromatic.
Since this is an international buffet, several global selections deserve a spot on your plate.
A must-try within the international spread is the BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Thoroughly marinated, the chicken remains incredibly juicy with every bite.
The pizza selection includes Peri-Peri Chicken, Seafood, and Pesto. Each features a well-developed, chewy base that tastes freshly made rather than ready-made.
Eggplant Lasagna offers a hearty, vegetable-forward alternative to the classic pasta version.
This Hi-Tea buffet also features Sup Ayam Berempah. This dish is a traditional crowd-favourite packed with bold, robust flavours. Layers of aromatic spices and herbs come through beautifully, complementing the rich, savoury chicken broth.
Pumpkin Soup is another star. Roasting the pumpkin before blending it into a creamy consistency coaxes out a deep, charred profile.
This extra step ensures a complex flavor experience that goes far beyond simple sweetness, making the roasty notes the key to its success.
No Hi-Tea would be complete without a selection of local favourites. These familiar staples bring a nostalgic crunch and savoury depth, adding a distinctly Malaysian touch to the afternoon tea experience.
Alongside these favorites, a selection of international small bites provides a refined variety, offering global flavors in convenient, snack-sized portions.
End the meal on a high note with a visit to the dessert counter. From delicate pastries to traditional local delights, this section offers a nice balance of textures and flavors.
This buffet is definitely a delight for families, offering kid-friendly treats like a flowing Chocolate Fountain and fluffy Cotton Candy.
These playful additions bring a touch of whimsy to the dessert spread, making it a guaranteed hit for younger guests and those with a sweet tooth.
Last but not least, the beverage selection includes sparkling water, which is perfect for cleansing the palate.
Teh Tarik here boasts a robust tea profile that isn’t masked by excessive sugar.
Tucked away in an elegant building near Bank Negara Malaysia, this buffet is a great family spot to refuel after visiting the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery.
Inside the AICB building, you will also find a financial services library that is open to the public.
If you require a premier, exclusive venue for private events, The Lounge is an ideal choice.
Guests can enjoy personalized service and an exquisite dining experience within a refined, professional setting.
This Halal-certified International Buffet Hi-Tea is available every Saturday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Adults can enjoy the spread for RM 79+, while senior citizens aged 60 and above are priced at RM 69+. Children below 12 dine for free. To secure your table, contact Thyme Out directly via WhatsApp or email now.
🌸 Special Feature: Dear Mum Buffet Hi-Tea — Mother’s Day Edition
This May, Thyme Out is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the most important woman in your life. On 9 May 2026 (Saturday), the café transforms its regular hi-tea into a specially themed “Dear Mum” Buffet Hi-Tea, running from 12.00pm to 3.30pm. Pricing for the buffet is set at RM 79+ per adult and RM 69+ for senior citizens aged 60 and above. Families with children between the ages of 7 and 12 can enjoy the spread for RM 40+ per child.
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Directions to AICB Centre of Excellence
