In the Waldorf Astoria, Sunday brunch can be quite a journey.

Caviar at the seafood bar Provided to China Daily

The Waldorf champagne brunch begins at 11 am at the legendary Long Bar. The 34-meter L-shaped bar, first opened in 1910, is reputed to be the longest in the Far East.

Diners can savor an endless stream of premium champagne, freshly shucked oysters from the Oyster Bar and various appetizers in the renewed Long Bar, which has been recreated to its original specifications.

At noon, the gourmet journey continues to the Grand Brasserie, the hotel's Manhattan style all-day dining restaurant. The open kitchen stations offer a sumptuous array of dishes from appetizer to dessert. 

The highlight may be its seafood bar, overflowing with caviar as well as clams and other premium shellfish.

Beyond that, diners can choose three main courses from the a la carte chef's specialties menu. The most-recommended are crab cake Benedict and risotto primavera with lobster.

Seasonal picks for summer include pan-seared foie gras with ginger raspberry compote, peanut butter foam and steak tartare a la Reuben. 

The menu also features Chinese favorite dishes such as Sichuan spice and dried chili scented wok-fried chicken.

Those who have a sweet tooth cannot miss the signature dessert "Red Velvet" chocolate chip pancakes with whipped cream cheese.

To accompany the fine cuisines, a jazz trio will serenade diners with soothing harmonies.

The Waldorf champagne brunch is priced at 888 yuan ($140) with 15 percent service charge per person including free flow of champagne, a selection of fine red and white wines, and soft drinks. For 688 yuan plus 15 percent service charge, diners can enjoy the brunch without champagne.

Contact the writer at yangyijun@chinadaily.com.cn