Best Buffets in Bakersfield, CA

Photo of Buffets in Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield offers a surprising variety of buffet options that cater to every palate. Whether you’re craving Indian spices, American classics, or Asian specialties, there’s likely a buffet that fits the bill. My visits to these eateries have consistently highlighted their commitment to freshness and flavorful offerings, making each meal a delightful experience.

Navigating Bakersfield’s buffet scene reveals spots that emphasize quality without sacrificing variety. From family-friendly venues to more refined options, the city’s buffet landscape promises satisfying choices for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions. Keep reading to uncover the best spots that truly stand out in this bustling Californian town.

Where to find the best buffets in Bakersfield, CA

Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in Bakersfield, CA:

  1. New Taj Palace Indian Restaurant
  2. John’s Incredible Pizza – Bakersfield
  3. Golden Corral Restaurants
  4. Sakura Buffet
  5. HomeTown Buffet
  6. Panda Buffet
  7. Hometown Buffet Inc.
  8. Chinatown Buffet
  9. China Star Buffet
  10. Don Perico Mexican Restaurant

1. New Taj Palace Indian Restaurant

New Taj Palace Indian Restaurant
Image by: TripAdvisor
3805 Ming Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93309-5052
+1 661-834-7737
See Menu

Nestled on Ming Avenue, New Taj Palace Indian Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Indian cuisine right in Bakersfield. During my visit, I was impressed by the vibrant spices and fresh ingredients that defined every dish. The restaurant’s warm ambiance makes it a great spot for both casual dining and special occasions.

What truly sets New Taj Palace apart is its comprehensive buffet, featuring a variety of flavorful curries, biryanis, and vegetarian options. The buffet selection highlights the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. Be sure to try the chicken tikka masala and vegetable samosas, which showcase bold flavors and expert seasoning typical of their style. The use of fresh spices and herbs ensures each bite is satisfying without overdoing the heat.

2. John’s Incredible Pizza – Bakersfield

John's Incredible Pizza - Bakersfield
Image by: TripAdvisor
3709 Rosedale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93308-6251
+1 661-859-1111
See Menu

John’s Incredible Pizza in Bakersfield is more than just a buffet — it’s a full family adventure. My visit revealed a lively atmosphere filled with laughter, games, and endless food options. The combination of dining and entertainment makes it a standout choice for families looking for a fun-filled day.

The all-you-can-eat buffet offers a variety of pizzas, salads, pasta, and desserts that reflect the restaurant’s playful yet quality-focused style. I recommend trying their classic pizza slices and fresh salads for a satisfying meal. The variety ensures there’s something for everyone, from kids to adults, while the indoor rides and arcade games keep the fun going long after the plates are cleared.

3. Golden Corral Restaurants

Golden Corral Restaurants
Image by: YellowPages
5001 Ming AveBakersfield, CA 93309
(661) 834-7224Call
See Menu

Golden Corral Restaurants offers a generous spread of classic American comfort food with a no-frills approach. My stop there was satisfying, especially for its steady stream of fresh dishes and well-maintained buffet layout. It’s a spot that delivers consistency without compromising taste or cleanliness.

What makes Golden Corral stand out is its variety. The salad bar is stocked with crisp veggies and house-made dressings, while hot items range from savory grilled chicken to buttery corn and mashed potatoes. I found the rotisserie chicken to be especially good — juicy, seasoned right, and complemented well by their sides.

The restaurant leans into its family-style roots, creating a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxed dining. The dessert station wraps it up nicely with soft-serve, cookies, and more for those who like a sweet finish.

4. Sakura Buffet

3632 Ming AveBakersfield, CA 93309
(661) 837-8999Call

Sakura Buffet on Ming Avenue stands out as one of Bakersfield’s most diverse and expansive buffet experiences. When I visited, the sheer breadth of choices immediately caught my attention — from sushi rolls to grilled BBQ and flavorful stir-fries. It’s a destination that invites repeat visits just to try everything on offer.

Its reputation as the largest international buffet in town isn’t just a tagline. The spread includes Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, and American dishes, with each section offering distinct flavors. I particularly enjoyed the vegetable tempura and teriyaki grilled vegetables — both were crisp, well-balanced, and showcased care in preparation.

With affordable prices and generous portions, Sakura Buffet strikes a rare balance between quantity and quality. It’s a place where you can explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

5. HomeTown Buffet

4221 S H StBakersfield, CA 93304
(661) 397-9363Call

HomeTown Buffet on South H Street offers a classic American buffet experience with a welcoming atmosphere. During my visit, I appreciated the variety and freshness of the dishes, making it a reliable choice for a hearty meal that satisfies all age groups.

What makes HomeTown Buffet stand out is its focus on comfort food and generous portions. The salad bar is loaded with crisp greens and fresh toppings, while the hot entrees include roast beef, fried chicken, and seasonal vegetables. I recommend trying their carved meats or comfort staples like mac and cheese, which reflect their homestyle approach.

It’s a straightforward spot perfect for families or anyone craving familiar, well-prepared American favorites in a casual setting. Reliable quality and a variety of options keep diners coming back.

6. Panda Buffet

3805 Ming AveBakersfield, CA 93309
(661) 834-7737Call

Tucked away on Ming Avenue, Panda Buffet delivers a solid buffet experience for Bakersfield locals who know what they want—plenty of choices at a fair price. The layout’s nothing fancy, but the steam tables stay fresh and full, and the pace moves without chaos, even on a busy weekend.

During my last visit, I went in skeptical and left satisfied. The vegetable stir-fry was surprisingly crisp, not drowned in sauce. Their chow mein balanced seasoning and texture well, while the fried rice kept its flavor without going oily. What stood out, though, was the sesame tofu—sweet, savory, and unexpectedly addictive.

Panda Buffet might not boast cutting-edge décor, but if you’re after ample variety with no fuss, it earns its place on the Bakersfield buffet map.

7. Hometown Buffet Inc.

9000 Ming Ave Ste PBakersfield, CA 93311
(661) 664-8723Call
See Menu

Hometown Buffet Inc. in Bakersfield, CA, offers a delightful dining experience where the variety and freshness of their buffet stand out. Located at 9000 Ming Ave Ste P, this restaurant is a local favorite for its extensive selection and friendly atmosphere.

During my visit, the warm, welcoming environment and the attentive staff made the experience enjoyable. What sets Hometown Buffet apart is their commitment to quality and variety, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Highly recommended dishes include the fresh salad bar, the succulent rotisserie chicken, and the creamy mashed potatoes. Each dish reflects the restaurant’s dedication to offering delicious, home-style meals that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

For a satisfying dining experience in Bakersfield, Hometown Buffet Inc. is a must-visit, showcasing the best of buffet-style dining.

8. Chinatown Buffet

Chinatown Buffet
Image by: YellowPages
1021 Oak StBakersfield, CA 93304
(661) 324-3189Call

Chinatown Buffet, located on Oak Street in Bakersfield, delivers a balanced blend of Chinese and American flavors with consistent quality. The cozy, no-frills setup is ideal for families or casual diners wanting variety without fuss.

What makes Chinatown Buffet memorable is its focus on freshly prepared dishes and quick service. It’s never fancy, but it’s always dependable. During my visit, I appreciated the clean layout and the prompt staff who kept the stations well-stocked.

Top picks include the crispy vegetable egg rolls, stir-fried noodles, and sweet and sour vegetables. These dishes speak to Chinatown Buffet’s simple, crowd-pleasing charm and its commitment to offering hearty options that are both flavorful and halal-friendly.

If you want straightforward, satisfying buffet fare in Bakersfield, Chinatown Buffet holds its own among the city’s dining spots.

9. China Star Buffet

China Star Buffet
Image by: YellowPages
4771 Planz RdBakersfield, CA 93309
(661) 396-1888Call
See Menu

China Star Buffet, tucked into Stockdale Town Center, offers a no-nonsense dining experience that’s easy on the wallet and generous on variety. The space is modest, but the buffet layout is efficient, with trays refilled often and service that’s brisk but polite.

What sets it apart is the sheer range of options. During my visit, I found the hot and sour soup surprisingly well-balanced, and the vegetable stir-fry had just the right amount of crunch. The buffet’s strength lies in its consistency—no frills, just dependable flavors.

If you’re after a satisfying meal without the fuss, try the shrimp chow mein or sesame balls. These dishes reflect China Star’s straightforward style: hearty, flavorful, and halal-friendly.

For Bakersfield locals who want variety at a below-average price, China Star Buffet is a practical pick.

10. Don Perico Mexican Restaurant

2660 Oswell St Ste 133Bakersfield, CA 93306
(661) 871-2001Call
See Menu

Tucked into the east side of Bakersfield, Don Perico Mexican Restaurant blends bold flavors with a buffet-style experience that feels anything but ordinary. The space is warm and inviting, with a steady hum of conversation and the unmistakable aroma of fresh tortillas and simmering sauces.

What sets Don Perico apart is its buffet selection rooted in authentic Mexican cuisine, with a few American and vegetarian-friendly surprises. The buffet isn’t sprawling, but it’s curated with care. Think slow-cooked beans, fluffy rice, and rich enchiladas that hold their own against any plated dish in town.

If you’re unsure where to start, go for the chile relleno or the grilled veggie fajitas—both are flavorful, satisfying, and reflect the kitchen’s attention to quality.

More Things to Try in Bakersfield, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the best buffets in Bakersfield for family-friendly dining?
Answer: Spots like John’s Incredible Pizza and Golden Corral are great choices for families, offering a variety of foods and entertainment options like games and rides.

Q2: Are there buffets in Bakersfield that offer vegetarian options?
Answer: Yes, Sakura Buffet and Chinatown Buffet include vegetarian dishes such as stir-fried vegetables, tofu, and salads, catering to different dietary preferences.

Q3: Do Bakersfield buffets serve halal or specific dietary preferences?
Answer: Some buffets like Chinatown Buffet and China Star Buffet focus on Chinese and Asian cuisines that include halal options; it’s best to check with the restaurant directly.

Q4: Are there buffets in Bakersfield with buffet lunches and dinner options?
Answer: Most buffets like HomeTown Buffet and Don Perico Mexican Restaurant offer both lunch and dinner buffets, often with slight menu variations.

Q5: Do Bakersfield buffets accommodate takeout orders?
Answer: Yes, many buffets such as Panda Buffet and Don Perico provide takeout options, making it easy to enjoy your favorite dishes at home.

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