NOT one to turn away Asian food at any time of the day, the Hilton Manchester Deansgate's A La Carte Chinese breakfast proved more than appealing.

Launched in time for Chinese New Year, but running indefinitely, the breakfast is a welcoming – and somewhat healthier – alternative to your standard fry up.

Sampling the chicken congee first, washed down with a cup of red tea, it is obvious why this is a popular breakfast dish in China.

A porridge-like plate, gelatinous in texture, the menu’s description of ‘in essence, a watery gruel’, far from did it justice.

Warrington Guardian:

This was followed up with Siu Mai prawn and pork dumplings and a steamed selection of coriander beef balls, barbecue Char Sui pork buns and rice rolls with sesame dip spring onions.

This hungry hack was in heaven; and, being sure to taste every last serving in aid of a fair review, concluded the Char Sui was my favourite.

Long strips of seasoned boneless pork injected into a melt-in-your-mouth bun, the subtle nature of this – and the other dishes – eases in your early-morning palate.

George, the Hilton’s charming host, was delighted the menu unleashed his chef’s creativity; their immaculate presentation certainly complementing the plush surroundings of Hilton’s Podium restaurant.

It’s reasonable, too, with each dish less than £4.50 and more than enough for a party of two or three; that’s if you can bring yourself to share it, of course

Warrington Guardian: