Finding the best buffet in Allentown, PA isn’t just about piling plates high. It’s about satisfaction, variety, and that effortless blend of comfort and discovery. I remember the first time I walked into an Allentown buffet—my senses were immediately treated to the aroma of sizzling stir-fry, the sight of fresh breads, and the gentle clink of plates being stacked in anticipation. Every visit since has felt like an invitation to try something new or stick with a familiar favorite.
If you’re scouting for buffets, you probably want a place that balances quality and selection, gets the details right, and makes you want to come back for another round. I’ve spent evenings taste-testing salad bars, lunchtime sessions at family-style spots, and adventurous outings with friends debating the virtues of crispy lo mein or another slice of oven-baked pizza. This guide covers the stand-outs in town, so whether you crave American classics or international specialties, you’ll have all the details to pick your next go-to spot. Let’s dig in—your perfect buffet awaits.
1. Chris’s Family Restaurant
Chris’s Family Restaurant feels like stepping into the heart of Allentown’s hospitality. Thirty years of family ownership means the staff greet you like an old friend, whether you’re there for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Each visit, I’m drawn in by the bounty of freshly prepared American and PA Dutch classics in their buffet, from hearty soups to fluffy buttermilk pancakes.
What truly sets Chris’s apart is their focus on homemade quality. The on-site baker crafts pillowy dinner rolls and signature desserts—the cheesecake is a highlight. If you need a recommendation, try the daily seafood special or a plate piled high with roast turkey and vegetables. Every bite feels true to their home-cooked roots.
2. New China Buffet
New China Buffet delivers a wonderfully diverse spread of Chinese and Asian favorites in a laid-back setting. The long steam tables, filled with brightly colored dishes, spark nostalgia for family meals where everyone finds something to love. I keep coming back for the warm, prompt service and the always-fresh selection.
What makes New China Buffet special is the sheer variety and consistency. Vegetable stir-fries, lo mein, egg drop soup, and crisp spring rolls are always piping hot. There’s also a large salad bar for lighter tastes. I make a beeline for the sesame chicken and garlic green beans—they’re flavorful, never greasy, and reflect the kitchen’s steady attention to detail.
For anyone with a craving for classic, satisfying Chinese dishes in Allentown, New China Buffet ticks all the boxes. The experience is reliable, comforting, and full of flavor.
3. Old Country Buffet
Old Country Buffet is where comfort food gets the spotlight. For me, it’s the place in Allentown to fill a plate with classic staples and feel completely at ease. The inviting, family-friendly atmosphere means there’s something for every taste, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or something lighter.
The buffet offers a generous selection of home-style favorites. Think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and macaroni and cheese, all made for big appetites and sharing. The salad bar is fresh and surprisingly varied, ideal for piling on extra greens beside your warm meal. I’m partial to the baked fish and country-style green beans—they’re simple, well-seasoned, and always satisfying.
Old Country Buffet stands out for providing classic, reliable options cooked with care. It’s an easy pick whenever comfort is on the menu.
4. Golden Corral Restaurants
Golden Corral consistently draws a lively crowd for good reason. The buffet is a feast of American classics, with something to make every eater smile. I always sense the buzz of big families catching up and regulars heading for their favorite trays as soon as I walk in.
What sets Golden Corral apart is both scope and freshness. The salad station is robust and always colorful, while the hot bar showcases everything from wood-fired vegetables to savory baked fish. I recommend their made-to-order omelets or the steaming baked potatoes, which taste homestyle and never rushed.
It’s the kind of buffet where you find everyday comfort foods, treated with respect and care, perfect for anyone who likes options alongside a homey vibe.
5. Hibachi Grills & Century Buffett
(610) 252-0840Call
Hibachi Grills & Century Buffet offers a blend of Japanese, Chinese, and American cuisine in a newly remodeled setting that feels both inviting and upbeat. I first visited right after their recent makeover and was struck by the sheer variety across their buffet lines. The space is spacious and clean, perfect for both big groups and casual dinners.
Signature highlights include the made-to-order hibachi station and the wide lineup of sushi rolls. The stir-fried noodles and vegetable dishes, always kept fresh, show the kitchen’s skill with flavor and texture. I find myself building a plate with grilled veggies from the hibachi and sampling the rotating array of steamed and sautéed offerings.
If variety is your game, this spot’s creativity and range make it a strong pick among buffets in Allentown.
6. Ming Buffet
(215) 679-2888Call
Ming Buffet is a local favorite where friendly service meets a solid range of Asian buffet offerings. My first time here, I was impressed by the well-stocked buffet and the clean, relaxed dining room. It’s the kind of spot where regulars know the staff by name and newcomers feel welcome right away.
The standout is the variety of stir-fries and soups, especially the vegetable lo mein and fresh egg drop soup. The kitchen keeps dishes replenished, so every serving is hot and inviting. Don’t miss out on their selection of steamed vegetables and classic fried rice, both done with care and just the right amount of seasoning.
Ming Buffet’s approach is simple: fresh options, steady crowd-pleasers, and a commitment to quality in every tray.
7. Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet
(610) 970-6888Call
Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet attracts diners with its sprawling, vibrant setup and deep selection of Asian favorites. The buzz of the hibachi station is hard to miss—watching your choice of vegetables and noodles sizzle right in front of you adds a lively touch to any meal. On my last visit, the energy in the dining room made the experience memorable.
Go straight for the hibachi counter and the ever-popular stir-fried noodles; both come hot, fresh, and packed with flavor. The steamed dumplings and sautéed green beans are solid bets for anyone who loves classic buffet staples. There’s always something new to try, making it easy to fill your plate with bold flavors and return for seconds.
8. Salad Bar Tenders
(215) 513-7204Call
Salad Bar Tenders takes the humble salad bar to impressive new heights. I wandered in one afternoon looking for something fresh and light, and was met with a colorful lineup of greens, grains, and house-made dressings. The focus here is freshness and customization—perfect if you want to build your plate just the way you like it.
Tucked among the classics, you’ll find crisp spinach, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a rotating selection of seasonal produce. Topping it off with a scoop of quinoa or a spoonful of tangy vinaigrette makes each visit unique. The cut fruits and sides change frequently, which keeps things exciting for return diners.
For anyone craving variety that’s as vibrant as it is wholesome, Salad Bar Tenders makes healthy feel fun and satisfying.
9. T J Pupillo Inc
(215) 256-4000Call
T J Pupillo Inc has the feel of a cherished neighborhood spot, with a buffet that surprises you with its homestyle charm. My last meal here felt like a return to the basics done right, served in a no-frills setting where the focus is on honest, satisfying food.
Signature highlights include their roasted vegetable dishes and fresh salads. The layout is straightforward, but each tray has a homemade appeal, from their seasoned potatoes to well-prepared green beans. There’s no rush, allowing you to settle in and enjoy simple fare at your own pace.
When I visit, I go for a mix of roasted veggies and a pile of their crisp salad greens. T J Pupillo Inc proves that comfort and quality go hand-in-hand.
10. Jims Buffet
(215) 855-6768Call
Jims Buffet is the kind of local fixture where regulars and newcomers both feel at ease. My first visit reminded me of classic buffet outings, where the atmosphere is laid-back and generous portions are standard. The steady flow of crowd-pleasing comfort foods keeps the dining room lively without ever feeling rushed.
Standouts here include the vegetable stir-fries, golden mashed potatoes, and fresh salad options. Each tray is refilled frequently, keeping everything vibrant and warm. I’m partial to their selection of cooked greens and pillowy rolls, especially when paired with a scoop of seasoned rice.
If you’re looking for a straightforward buffet experience with friendly service and lots of well-made classics, Jims Buffet fits the bill every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in Allentown, PA?
Allentown offers a diverse array of favorite buffets, including Chris’s Family Restaurant, Golden Corral, New China Buffet, and several hibachi and salad bar destinations. Each has its own strengths, from American classics to Asian specialties.
Do buffets in Allentown offer vegetarian options?
Yes, most buffets feature several vegetarian options, such as fresh salads, vegetable stir-fries, and a variety of side dishes. Salad Bar Tenders and Ming Buffet are particularly strong choices for plant-based eaters.
Are there family-friendly buffets in Allentown?
Absolutely. Chris’s Family Restaurant, Golden Corral, and Old Country Buffet create a welcoming environment for families, with spacious seating and menus that appeal to kids and adults.
What should I try at local buffets?
Go for homemade specialties like Chris’s fluffy buttermilk pancakes, Golden Corral’s roasted vegetables, or New China Buffet’s sesame chicken. For something lighter, a custom plate from Salad Bar Tenders always hits the spot.
Do Allentown buffets offer takeout or catering?
Many buffets, including Chris’s Family Restaurant and some Asian buffets, provide takeout trays and catering options for parties and gatherings. Call ahead to ask about menus and advance ordering.