6 Buffets in North Carolina That Always Bring Families Back
Nothing unites a hungry family like a great buffet where everyone can find their favorite dishes.
Across North Carolina, several all-you-can-eat establishments have earned loyal followings for their abundant spreads and family-friendly atmospheres.
Southern comfort classics and international flavors alike make these six buffets a beloved destination, keeping families returning generation after generation.
1. Casey’s Buffet (Wilmington)
Soul food heaven awaits at this Wilmington gem where southern cooking shines in its most authentic form. Regulars rave about the fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese that taste just like grandma used to make.
Family-owned since 2005, Casey’s serves up over 50 home-style dishes daily in a welcoming atmosphere that feels like Sunday dinner at a relative’s house.
2. Golden Corral
Founded in North Carolina back in 1973, this iconic buffet chain has grown nationwide while maintaining strong roots in its home state. Weekends bring crowds of hungry patrons eager to explore the famous chocolate fountain and endless hot food options.
Kids particularly love the dessert section with its soft-serve ice cream machines and fresh-baked cookies, making this spot a guaranteed pleaser for family outings.
3. China Buffet (Greensboro)
Locals flock to this Greensboro institution for its impressive array of Asian cuisine spanning Chinese favorites to sushi and hibachi options.
Freshly prepared dishes constantly rotate through the buffet line, ensuring quality and variety throughout meal service. Weekday lunch specials attract business crowds while weekend evenings transform into family affairs with special dishes appearing exclusively during prime dining hours.
4. Western Sizzlin (Dunn)
Meat lovers rejoice at this Dunn landmark where hand-cut steaks complement an extensive hot and cold buffet. Signature flame-grilled items remain the primary draw, but unlimited trips to the fresh salad bar and hot vegetable station round out the experience.
Generations of families celebrate special occasions here, creating traditions around the restaurant’s famous rolls and honey butter that start every meal.
5. Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q Buffet
Quintessential Carolina barbecue defines this beloved chain where eastern-style pulled pork takes center stage. Slow-cooked over hickory wood, the signature meat pairs perfectly with traditional sides like Brunswick stew, hush puppies, and coleslaw.
Unlimited sweet tea flows freely as guests make multiple trips for second helpings of the region’s most celebrated smoked meats and comfort food sides.
6. K&W Cafeteria
Serving comfort food since 1937, this North Carolina institution has perfected cafeteria-style dining across generations. Unlike traditional buffets, K&W’s line format allows guests to select precisely what they want while still enjoying unlimited variety.
Famous for home-style vegetables, hand-breaded fried chicken, and spectacular desserts, K&W maintains loyal customers who have been dining here for decades, passing the tradition to younger family members.
