10 Old-Fashioned Arkansas Buffets That Keep The Tradition Alive
There’s something about a classic buffet that brings people together. In Arkansas, many of these timeless spots have been serving up heaping plates of comfort food for decades, and they’re still going strong.
Here you can anything from catfish and fried chicken to fresh salads and sweet desserts. These buffets aren’t just about the food.
They’re about the tradition. If you’ve grown up in Arkansas, chances are you’ve spent a Sunday afternoon or a special occasion at one of these beloved spots, chatting with family over piles of delicious dishes.
The best part? These buffets have kept the same flavorful menus for years, proving that sometimes, the old ways are still the best ways.
So, if you’re looking to dive into some of Arkansas’ most cherished buffet spots, here are local spots that continue to serve up nostalgia and flavor in every bite.
1. Wood Grill Buffet, Benton
The moment I stepped into Wood Grill Buffet at 1916 Congo Rd, Benton, AR 72015, I could tell Benton was going to be generous. The line moved quickly, and the carving stations were a sight, ribeye, ham, and that sweet-smoky roast that’ll make you forget everything else for a while.
I told myself to pace myself, but, of course, I didn’t. The yeast rolls were soft and warm, great for soaking up the brown gravy.
And there’s that hush puppies tray, right next to the smoky baked beans, it’s impossible to resist. I ended up with a plate stacked high, and somewhere between the mac and cheese and the skillet cabbage, I heard a voice saying, “Save room for cobbler.” That voice was right.
What gives this place its charm is the rhythm, fresh pans of food just keep coming, and the atmosphere feels like a warm hug. I left with a grin, thinking, this is where diets take a break.
Go in the evening when the grill’s at its busiest for the best cuts. And if you bring someone who eats with enthusiasm, half the fun is swapping bites and theories about the best mashed potato-to-gravy ratio.
Tradition thrives here, plate after plate.
2. The World Buffet Restaurant, Hot Springs
In Hot Springs, indulgence isn’t just an activity, it’s a sport, and The World Buffet Restaurant (1200 Albert Pike Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913) is the arena where cravings go wild. I walked in feeling like I’d stepped into an amusement park.
I was excited and ready to try everything. There’s sushi, lo mein, fried chicken, and more.
That’s the thing about global buffets. They dare you to travel the world, one plate at a time.
The sushi was fresh and crisp, while the hibachi grill had the ideal garlic kick. I ended up with spicy Korean bites, buttery shrimp, and a slice of pizza because, hey, we’re all contradictions.
Dessert was a treat too: soft-serve ice cream on warm brownies, letting the ice cream melt just to chase every bite. Locals fill the tables, and everything flows like a well-oiled machine.
If you’re someone who loves options, this is your playground. I left feeling that satisfying fullness, where you slow down and start planning for tomorrow’s leftovers.
It’s not fussy. It’s just fun, with the warmth of Arkansas thrown in.
Come hungry, take a second loop, and you’ll be glad you did.
3. Asia Buffet, Little Rock
Asia Buffet in West Little Rock at 11121 N Rodney Parham Rd #27B, Little Rock, AR 72212 had popped up in conversation more than once, so I knew I had to check it out. The dining room was buzzing with regulars who knew exactly where to go: straight to the Mongolian grill.
I followed them, pretending to know what I was doing, and piled on veggies, chicken, and just a hint of spice. The grill master worked his magic, handing me back a bowl that disappeared faster than I could chat.
Then I roamed the hot bar and grabbed salt-and-pepper shrimp, peppered chicken, and those wonderfully cooked green beans. There’s a big difference between a buffet that just fills you up and one that feels like it cares for you.
This one falls in the second category. The sushi is fresh but practical, with just enough variety to keep things interesting.
The sesame balls were warm and sweet, and after a quick detour for hot and sour soup, I was ready for more. Come with a friend who loves to sample and split because trying a little bit of everything is part of the fun.
Save room for the coconut cake. It’s worth it.
4. Golden Corral Buffet & Grill, North Little Rock
Sometimes, you just want something familiar, and Golden Corral (5001 Warden Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72116) absolutely nails that. I arrived for dinner and watched families happily claim booths, clearly treating every day like a reason to celebrate.
The salad bar is a solid start, but that pot roast had me hooked instantly. Golden Corral is a chain, yes, but this location really puts a little extra shine on the classics.
The fried chicken had that wonderful, peppery crisp, and the mashed potatoes were exactly what I was hoping for, comfort food at its finest. The smoked brisket was a surprise winner, pairing perfectly with collard greens and cornbread.
And yes, the chocolate fountain was just as dramatic as you’d imagine. I dunked strawberries and a cube of pound cake, balance, right?
The staff kept refills coming without missing a beat, creating a comfortable, familiar experience. It’s the kind of place where you just relax and enjoy.
If it’s been a while since your last visit, consider this your nudge to gather a group, dive in, and discover what’s new (like the cinnamon bread peeking out from the corner). The committee says: grab another plate!
5. Bentley’s Restaurant And Buffet, Greers Ferry
Greers Ferry has a relaxed vibe, and Bentley’s (7965 Edgemont Rd, Greers Ferry, AR 72067) fits right into that easy rhythm. I found a table near the buffet and immediately spotted the chicken fried steak.
The locals were already deep in conversation, swapping lake stories between bites. The buffet is pure Southern comfort, with slow-cooked green beans, creamy corn, and cornbread that practically begs for butter.
I couldn’t resist the meatloaf, moist, tender, and full of flavor. Then there was the cucumber salad, refreshing and the ideal counterpoint to all that richness.
The pies? They’re the real deal.
I couldn’t help but praise the chocolate one, which was the highlight of the meal. Bentley’s isn’t about rushing.
You settle in, let the warmth do its job, and enjoy the simple joy of good food. This place has a quiet, dependable charm that makes you feel at home, every time you walk in.
If you’re near the lake, it’s the great spot to unwind, enjoy great food, and debrief the day.
6. Fat Chance’s Buffet & Catering, De Queen
Driving into De Queen, I followed the scent of something good to Fat Chance’s (605 W Colin Raye Dr, De Queen, AR 71832). Inside, the buffet greeted me like an organized church potluck, with long tables full of casseroles and meats ready to impress.
The fried catfish was the star, crispy and perfectly seasoned, while the sides had that homey, family recipe feel. There was a smothered pork dish that demanded a biscuit to soak up every drop, and I was more than happy to oblige.
The green beans were wonderfully tender, and the slaw added the right amount of crunch. What I really appreciated was the community vibe.
The staff knew the regulars and kept everything fresh, like they were expecting the whole town to show up. The dessert rotation was simple but satisfying, banana pudding and sheet cake standing tall with pride.
Fat Chance’s shows that simple done right is always a winner. If you’re driving through southwest Arkansas, plan to make a stop here.
Bring your appetite and an appetite for good conversation.
7. Ron’s Catfish Buffet, Jonesboro
Jonesboro has a special place for catfish, and Ron’s Catfish Buffet (3213 Dan Avenue, Jonesboro, AR 72401) takes that tradition seriously. When I walked in, I could already hear the fryer humming, and the room was full of people who were clearly ready to enjoy.
The buffet layout is simple, and that’s just the way it should be, the fish is the star. The fillets were golden, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, just waiting for a dip in tartar sauce or a splash of hot sauce.
The hush puppies were sweet, the beans and slaw just right. Then there was the cobbler, which paired beautifully with the soft-serve ice cream.
The service here is so confident, they’ve got the rhythm down, and everything flows smoothly. It’s a no-frills catfish experience done right.
Take your time, enjoy the pace, and savor the flavors. This is the standard by which all other catfish buffets are measured.
8. Star Of India Restaurant, Little Rock
When a craving for curry strikes, Star of India (301 N Shackleford Rd, Ste C4, Little Rock, AR 72211) is the answer. The lunch buffet offers a fantastic spread of comforting dishes that range from creamy to mildly spicy.
The chicken tikka masala is always a winner, rich and flavorful with just the right amount of heat. The saag has that deep, earthy flavor that hits all the right spots.
But it’s the naan that’s worth mentioning, warm, soft, and great for mopping up that delicious sauce. The buffet itself offers a great balance: hearty, rich dishes like butter chicken, and lighter options like lentils and vegetable curries.
The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, and there’s a genuine care for the food that makes every bite comforting. The staff often checks in, adding to the feeling of a personal experience.
After you’ve had your fill, make sure to save room for a cup of chai. It’s the ideal way to end the meal, soothing your palate with its rich cardamom flavor.
If you’re in the mood for something comforting and flavorful with a bit of spice, Star of India offers that in spades. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you full and satisfied, with a craving to come back for more.
9. Check-H Grill & Buffet, Russellville
If you’re passing through Russellville, make a stop at Check-H Grill & Buffet (1105 E Main St, Russellville, AR 72801). From the moment you walk in, you can tell this place is all about comfort food done right.
The buffet line is lined with Southern classics, and the steam rising from the hot bar tells you everything is fresh and ready. There’s fried chicken, meatloaf, and a big pot of beans that looks like it’s been simmering all day, just waiting for you to dig in.
The squash casserole has a creamy texture and flavors that transport you straight to summer, while the cornbread is warm and crumbly, just like Grandma used to make. Dessert is simple but ideal for rounding out a meal, with pudding and cake that don’t need to be fancy to taste amazing.
The whole experience feels relaxed, and the food has that homey feel, no frills, just comfort. If you’re traveling on I-40 and need a pit stop, this is the place to kick back and enjoy a hearty meal.
Whether you’re stopping for a quick bite or planning to linger, the steady rhythm of the food and the small-town atmosphere make it a welcome break.
10. Huckleberry’s Catfish Buffet, Searcy
If you find yourself in Searcy, don’t miss Huckleberry’s Catfish Buffet (2613 Eastline Rd, Searcy, AR 72143). It’s a local favorite that never disappoints.
The dining room is always lively, with the hum of conversation and the sound of fresh food coming out of the kitchen. I dove straight into the catfish, and let me tell you, it’s everything you want in fried fish.
They’re golden and crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. The hush puppies were sweet and just right, and the sides really hit the spot.
The beans were slow-cooked just right, and the slaw added that ideal crunch. The greens were cooked with that homey flavor that immediately felt comforting.
There’s also peel-and-eat shrimp if you’re craving a little variety, and they make a great addition to your plate. Then came dessert: warm, sweet cobbler and soft-serve ice cream.
It’s the kind of dessert that feels nostalgic and satisfying, finishing off the meal. Huckleberry’s has a relaxed, community vibe that makes you feel right at home, and if you love old-school Southern catfish, this place is a must-visit.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Huckleberry’s is the kind of place you’ll want to come back to, and after one visit, you’ll understand why it’s a local treasure.