5 Chicago Buffets That Miss The Mark And 5 That Hit The Spot
Chicago’s buffet scene is a true rollercoaster ride of culinary hits and misses, where every trip feels like an adventure in itself.
Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours exploring these all-you-can-eat wonderlands, ranging from downtown hotspots to hidden suburban gems. Along the way, I’ve sampled everything from mediocre mac and cheese to mouthwatering prime rib that made the entire experience worthwhile.
Whether it’s the variety, the quality, or just that irresistible “eat until you can’t move” feeling, Chicago’s buffets offer something for every type of food lover—and some are definitely more memorable than others.
1. Golden Corral: Quantity Over Quality
My grandmother swears by Golden Corral, but I can’t share her enthusiasm. The sprawling food stations initially appear impressive until you actually taste what’s on offer.
The mac and cheese sits under heat lamps until it develops that unfortunate skin on top, while the fried chicken often feels like it’s been waiting for you since breakfast. Their vegetables somehow manage to be both overcooked and cold simultaneously – a culinary paradox I’ve yet to understand.
Sure, you get unlimited food, but when nothing tastes particularly good, is that really a win? Sometimes I wonder if they’re secretly competing for the blandest food in Chicago.
2. Old Country Buffet: A Blast from the Past (Not in a Good Way)
Remember those school cafeteria lunches that haunted your childhood? Old Country Buffet somehow bottled that experience and charges you for it. Last Tuesday, I ventured in hoping for comfort food but found only discomfort.
The mashed potatoes had the consistency of wet cement, while the gravy resembled something better suited for hanging wallpaper. Their carving station featured meat so mysterious I’m still not convinced it wasn’t actually cardboard.
The dessert section looked promising until I bit into a slice of pie that tasted like it was made during the Clinton administration. Some things are better left in the past – this buffet is definitely one of them.
3. The Buffet at The Venetian: Las Vegas Glamour, Chicago Disappointment
The name conjures images of opulence and Italian grandeur, but Chicago’s version of The Venetian’s buffet falls flatter than day-old soda. I arrived with visions of Vegas-style luxury dancing in my head only to face reality’s harsh slap.
The promised ‘international cuisine’ consisted mainly of pasta that could double as rubber bands and sushi that made me question my life insurance policy. Their signature dishes lacked any signature flavor, making me wonder if the chef had ever actually tasted the food.
The elegant décor can’t compensate for the uninspired offerings. At these prices, you’d expect culinary fireworks but instead get culinary sparklers – brief moments of potential that quickly fizzle out.
4. India House Buffet: Spice Without Soul
My cousin from Mumbai nearly wept when I took him to India House Buffet. The restaurant promises authentic Indian cuisine but delivers something closer to a culinary identity crisis. Their chicken tikka masala swam in a sauce that couldn’t decide if it wanted to be tomato soup or orange juice.
The naan bread arrived at our table with the texture of cardboard – I briefly considered using it as a coaster instead. Even the rice, something seemingly impossible to mess up, managed to be both undercooked and mushy.
What’s truly baffling is how they’ve removed all the vibrant, complex flavors that make Indian food so special. It’s like they’ve created the beige version of one of the world’s most colorful cuisines.
5. The Original Pancake House: Breakfast Blunders Galore
Pancakes should be my love language, which is why The Original Pancake House’s buffet felt like a personal betrayal. Walking in, the syrupy aroma promised breakfast paradise – a promise quickly broken upon my first bite.
The pancakes somehow managed to be both soggy in the middle and crispy around the edges, like they couldn’t commit to a texture. Their scrambled eggs had that distinctive rubbery bounce that screams ‘I’ve been sitting in this warming tray since dawn.’
Even the bacon – typically foolproof – was either floppy and undercooked or brittle enough to shatter into bacon dust. For a place with ‘pancake’ in its name, you’d expect at least one item to shine. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t.
6. The Signature Room’s Sky-High Brunch: Buffet with a View
Perched on the 95th floor of the John Hancock building, this brunch spot literally elevates the buffet experience. Last month, I celebrated my birthday here and nearly forgot about the food because I was so mesmerized by the panoramic lake views.
But then I tasted their made-to-order eggs benedict with perfectly poached eggs and hollandaise sauce that must be whipped by angels. The carving station features prime rib so tender you could cut it with a harsh glance.
Their seafood selection – particularly the jumbo shrimp and smoked salmon – tastes like it was caught moments ago. Yes, it’s pricey, but you’re paying for both exceptional food and that million-dollar Chicago skyline view. Worth every penny!
7. Ruth’s Chris Sunday Feast: Where Steakhouse Meets Buffet
Who knew a high-end steakhouse could rock a buffet? Ruth’s Chris has somehow mastered the impossible – maintaining their legendary quality while letting me pile my plate high with goodies. My first visit was supposed to be a one-time splurge, but it’s become my monthly treat.
Their prime rib melts like butter on your tongue, making you question all other beef you’ve ever consumed. The seafood station features crab legs so sweet and fresh you’ll forget you’re in the Midwest.
Even their salad bar – typically the boring section of any buffet – showcases ingredients that taste like they were harvested that morning. The chocolate fountain finale? Pure genius. Watching warm chocolate cascade over fresh strawberries is practically therapy.
8. Four Seasons Magnificent Mile Brunch: Luxury on a Plate
Grandeur meets gastronomy at the Four Seasons brunch buffet! When my parents visited from out of town, I wanted to impress them with Chicago’s finest, and this place delivered beyond expectations.
The presentation alone deserves a standing ovation – each station looks like it was designed for a food magazine photoshoot. Their eggs are sourced from local farms and transformed into fluffy omelets filled with whatever your heart desires.
The pastry section features croissants so buttery and flaky that I may have smuggled a few home in my purse. What truly sets this buffet apart is the attentive service. Staff remember your name and preferences, making you feel like royalty while you stuff your face with gourmet delights.
9. P.F. Chang’s Dim Sum Brunch: Asian Fusion Paradise
Forget everything you thought you knew about chain restaurants – P.F. Chang’s dim sum buffet breaks all the rules in the best possible way. My skepticism vanished faster than their dumplings on my plate. The star attractions are the handmade potstickers with perfectly crispy bottoms and juicy fillings that burst with flavor.
Their bao buns are cloud-like pillows stuffed with savory fillings that would make any Chinese grandmother nod in approval. Even simple dishes like their vegetable spring rolls taste remarkably fresh and crisp.
The constant rotation of dishes means you’ll discover new favorites with each visit. Pro tip: save room for their mochi ice cream balls – those little rice-wrapped ice cream bites are dangerously addictive!
10. Wildfire’s Weekend Feast: Chicago’s Hidden Gem
Wildfire might not scream ‘amazing buffet’ at first glance, but their weekend spread has become my secret weapon for impressing out-of-town guests. Last month, my picky brother-in-law actually hugged me after experiencing their brunch buffet – a miracle of biblical proportions!
Their carving station features herb-crusted prime rib that practically dissolves on contact with your tongue. The seafood bar offers jumbo shrimp so fresh you’ll wonder if Lake Michigan somehow sprouted crustaceans.