6 North Carolina Buffets Locals Always Count On & 6 That Are True Can’t-Miss Spots
North Carolina knows how to do buffets right. Picture steaming trays of Southern comfort classics, tables piled high with seafood spreads, and endless reasons to grab another plate.
Locals swear by these spots for their go-to fix, while travelers leave with stories of meals that felt more like feasts.
These 12 buffets aren’t just about eating – they’re about indulging in flavors that practically demand seconds… and maybe even thirds.
1. Fuller’s Old-Fashioned BBQ & Buffet – Fayetteville & Pembroke
Smoky Eastern NC barbecue draws crowds to this family-owned establishment, where the buffet line stretches with Southern classics. Perfectly smoked pork sits alongside crispy fried chicken, while seafood options round out the selection.
The vegetable bar features farm-fresh sides like collards and candied yams. Sweet-toothed diners rave about the homemade banana pudding that grandmothers across the state would approve of.
2. Granny’s Kitchen – Cherokee
Mountain mornings start right at this Cherokee staple serving country breakfasts since 1984. Fluffy biscuits swim in pepper-flecked gravy while scrambled eggs and country ham satisfy hungry hikers.
Lunch brings out Southern classics – crispy fried chicken, pot roast, and cornbread that crumbles perfectly. The dinner service feels like Sunday at Grandma’s, with everything made from scratch and served with genuine mountain hospitality.
3. Hibachi China Buffet – Raleigh
College students and families flock to this Raleigh mainstay where Asian flavors meet budget-friendly abundance. The hibachi station sizzles as chefs flip vegetables and meats to order, creating personalized stir-fries.
Sushi rolls appear continuously, staying fresh despite the all-you-can-eat format. Last winter, during finals week, I practically lived here – the staff recognized me and started bringing extra crab rangoon without asking.
4. Hibachi Buffet & Grill – Matthews
Quantity meets quality at this suburban Charlotte buffet boasting over 250 items. The sprawling food stations feature everything from traditional Chinese dishes to American comfort foods.
The hibachi grill creates the main attraction – chefs toss your chosen ingredients with flair. Sushi lovers appreciate the consistently fresh offerings that defy buffet stereotypes, while dessert options range from fruit to ice cream to Chinese donuts.
5. River Buffet & Grill – Charlotte
University students discover this hidden gem and keep returning long after graduation. The affordable price point belies the quality, particularly the sushi that maintains freshness through constant small-batch preparation.
Hibachi chefs entertain while cooking, creating a dinner-and-show experience without the premium price tag. The owner often circulates through the dining room, checking on regulars and welcoming newcomers with the same warm smile.
6. Golden Corral – Hendersonville
North Carolina’s homegrown buffet chain shines particularly bright at this mountain location. The famous Bourbon Street Chicken disappears almost as quickly as staff can refill the pan.
Families gather around tables laden with everything from steak to mac and cheese. Growing up, this was our Sunday tradition – I measured my height against the chocolate fountain year after year, finally tall enough at age eight to operate it without help.
7. Captain George’s Seafood – Kill Devil Hills
Coastal feasting reaches its peak at this Outer Banks institution where seafood dominates in both quantity and quality. Crab legs arrive in endless supply, accompanied by clarified butter and necessary crackers.
The nautical-themed dining room buzzes with vacation energy as families create memories over platters of fried shrimp and broiled fish.
Landlubbers find options too, but the ocean’s bounty rightfully takes center stage at this beachside landmark.
8. Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet – Kitty Hawk
Summer vacation dreams materialize at this seasonal seafood haven where crab legs come in multiple varieties. The lobster specials cause particular excitement, especially on select nights when whole Maine lobsters join the buffet lineup; check the current schedule for dates.
Hand-breaded seafood maintains crispness under heat lamps through frequent replacement. The scratch-made hushpuppies have inspired marriage proposals according to local legend, their sweet cornmeal perfection complementing every seafood selection.
9. Blue Ridge Artisanal Buffet at The Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville
Mountain luxury defines this upscale buffet experience, where Friday brings seafood extravagance and Saturday showcases prime rib. Sunday Champagne Brunch becomes legendary with made-to-order omelets and champagne service.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a backdrop that enhances every bite. The dessert display resembles edible art – pastry chefs craft miniature works that taste even better than they look.
10. Barn Dinner Theatre – Greensboro
America’s longest-running dinner theater serves entertainment alongside hearty buffet fare. The pre-show spread features comfort classics: carved meats, fresh vegetables, and homestyle desserts.
After filling plates, the magic happens as the central stage literally descends from the ceiling. Broadway-caliber performances unfold while diners enjoy second helpings of both food and entertainment, creating an evening that satisfies multiple senses.
11. KFC Buffet – Dunn
Fast food evolves into feast mode at this rare surviving KFC buffet, a roadside attraction for fried chicken aficionados. The Colonel’s original recipe sits alongside grilled options and regional specialties not found at standard locations.
Southern sides like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and coleslaw come in unlimited portions. The cobbler station becomes a destination itself, with fruit fillings bubbling beneath golden crusts that beg for a scoop of soft-serve ice cream.
12. Chason’s Buffet – Fayetteville
Phoenix-like, this newcomer rose from the ashes of beloved Grandson’s, preserving community tradition while adding fresh touches. Local families immediately embraced the successor, grateful that their gathering place lives on.
Southern staples dominate the steam tables – fried chicken, collards, candied yams, and cornbread. The banana pudding recipe reportedly came with the building purchase, maintaining the dessert legacy that three generations of Fayetteville residents have grown up enjoying.