Ever wondered where to find the best buffets in Bloomington, IL? I’m here to share my favorite spots with you. These places offer a variety of delicious foods that will make your taste buds dance.

What are the best buffets in Bloomington, IL? Bloomington has some fantastic buffets like Imperial Buffet, Shannon’s Five Star, and Pizza Ranch. They serve a wide range of tasty dishes from around the world.
Dive into the next sections to learn more about each buffet. You’ll find out what makes them special and why they are must-visits. Happy reading!
Top 10 Buffets in Bloomington, IL
- Imperial Buffet
- Shannon’s Five Star
- Pizza Ranch
- Signature India Bloomington
- Baxters American Grille
- Garden of Paradise
- Egg Republic
- Bloom Bawarchi Indian Restaurant & Bar
- Kochi
- The Tasty Crab
1. Imperial Buffet
Phone: (309) 454-4848
Menu: www.imperialbuffetil.com
Directions: Open on Map
Imperial Buffet, at 1950 E College Ave, Normal, IL 61761, is a go-to spot. It has indoor and outdoor seating. The place is wheelchair-accessible and offers takeout. They serve a mix of Pan-Asian, American, and Italian dishes. Prices are moderate.
The diverse food choices and relaxed vibe make it special. The staff is always friendly. They make sure you have a great time. I love going there for the wide variety.
Personally, I always go for their sushi rolls. They are fresh and tasty. Also, the Mongolian grill is a hit. You can pick your own ingredients and sauces. It’s a fun and delicious experience. Definitely worth a try!
2. Shannon’s Five Star
Phone: (309) 664-0808
Menu: www.shannonsfivestar.com
Directions: Open on Map
Shannon’s Five Star, at 1305 S Mercer Ave, feels like home. They serve classic American meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The place is wheelchair-accessible. They also offer delivery, takeout, and curbside pickup. Prices are super affordable, too.
What sets them apart? It’s the cozy, down-to-earth vibe. The staff is so welcoming. It makes every meal feel special. It’s a spot I keep going back to.
Their fried chicken is a must-try. It’s crispy and full of flavor. I also love their biscuits and gravy. They’re soft, creamy, and pure comfort. The food is simple but tastes amazing. It’s perfect when you’re craving something hearty. Definitely worth a visit!
3. Pizza Ranch
Phone: (309) 820-9777
Menu: pizzaranch.com
Directions: Open on Map
Pizza Ranch, located at 1211 Holiday Dr, is such a fun place. The Old West theme gives it a unique vibe. You really feel like you’re stepping back in time. And the buffet? It’s just fantastic!
I remember visiting for lunch. The choices amazed me! From pizza to fried chicken, everything looked and smelled great. I couldn’t wait to dig in. The fried chicken was crispy and packed with flavor. The pizza was cheesy and delicious.
What really makes Pizza Ranch special is the warm atmosphere. It’s a friendly spot that feels like home.
If you go, definitely try the fried chicken and pizza. They showcase everything they do well. You won’t be disappointed!
4. Signature India Bloomington
Phone: (309) 663-2226
Menu: www.signatureindiablm.com
Directions: Open on Map
Signature India Bloomington is a cozy spot. It’s located at 1407 N Veterans Pkwy. The space is clean, bright, and welcoming. They offer indoor and outdoor seating. Delivery and takeout are also available.
I stopped by recently. The smell of spices was everywhere. It made my mouth water. I ordered butter chicken and garlic naan. Oh my, it was perfect. The butter chicken was creamy and flavorful. The naan was soft and fresh, just right.
This place stands out for its real, bold flavors. You can tell they put love into their food. If you visit, try the lamb curry. It’s tender and packed with rich spices. Their food truly shows off what Indian cuisine is all about.
5. Baxters American Grille
Phone: (309) 662-1114
Menu: www.baxtersgrille.com
Directions: Open on Map
Baxters American Grille at 3212 E Empire St is such a polished gem. It’s dimly lit, so cozy for a night out. They have indoor and outdoor seating, plus delivery and curbside pickup. Super convenient!
I went there recently, and wow, I loved the vibe. The menu is all about meat and, let me tell you, it’s amazing. I tried the filet mignon with garlic mashed potatoes. The steak was perfect—tender and juicy. Every bite was a delight!
What makes Baxters special is their wine selection. The staff? So friendly and knowledgeable. If you go, you must try the short ribs. They melt in your mouth. Every dish just screams quality and taste!
6. Garden of Paradise
Phone: (309) 585-0255
Menu: thegardenofparadise.com
Directions: Open on Map
Garden of Paradise, at 1412 E Empire St, is a cozy diner. It feels super relaxed, like a home away from home. You can sit indoors or enjoy the nice outdoor seating.
I recently stopped by and had a great time. They serve old-school American and Greek food. Plus, you can get breakfast all day, which I love! I had their Greek omelet. It was stuffed with goodies and full of flavor.
What really makes this place special is the friendly atmosphere. You feel welcomed from the moment you walk in. If you visit, try the gyros. They’re tasty and seasoned just right. It’s comfort food that hits the spot every time!
7. Egg Republic
Phone: (309) 585-4052
Menu: eggrepublic.com
Directions: Open on Map
Egg Republic is such a cozy spot! I loved how warm and inviting it felt. It’s perfect for a quiet breakfast or casual brunch. Everything about it was simple yet comforting.
The pancakes? Oh, they were so fluffy! The omelets were packed with flavor too. Everything tasted fresh and just right. It felt like comfort food made with care.
I’d say, don’t miss the California Benedict. The avocado and hollandaise? Absolute perfection! Every bite was creamy and dreamy. It’s just the kind of dish that keeps you coming back.
Plus, the place is super accessible. They even have takeout and delivery. Honestly, it’s got something for everyone!
8. Bloom Bawarchi Indian Restaurant & Bar
Phone: (309) 277-3678
Menu: bloombawarchi.com
Directions: Open on Map
Oh wow, Bloom Bawarchi Indian Restaurant & Bar is such a delight! It’s in Bloomington on North Prospect Road. They’ve got indoor and outdoor seating, which I love. They even do delivery and curbside pickup. Super handy, right?
I went there and tried their chicken biryani. Oh my goodness, it was so good. The rice was so flavorful, and the chicken? So tender and juicy. The spices were just perfect, not too much, not too little.
What really stands out is their focus on fresh and authentic food. You can taste the difference. If you go, you’ve got to try their paneer tikka. It’s creamy, smoky, and so tasty. Honestly, it’s a place worth visiting again!
9. Kochi
Phone: (646) 322-8898
Menu: kochijapanese.com
Directions: Open on Map
Kochi brings the taste of South India to Bloomington. The buffet features crispy dosas, coconut chutney, and spicy sambar. Each bite takes you straight to Kerala. The restaurant is clean, quiet, and family-friendly. A unique treat for your taste buds.
10. The Tasty Crab
Phone: (309) 585-0401
Menu: www.thetastycrab.com
Directions: Open on Map
The Tasty Crab is a seafood dream. It’s bright and welcoming. You feel relaxed the moment you walk in. The place is great for friends, family, or just you.
I had an amazing time there. Everything I tried was fresh and tasty. The Cajun spices? Wow, they just hit the spot. The food made my taste buds dance.
The crab legs stole the show. They were so juicy. The garlic butter shrimp was great, too. It was buttery and rich. Everything felt perfectly made.
Don’t leave without trying the lobster tails. Sweet, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth good. The Tasty Crab is a must-visit for seafood lovers like me!
Map of Buffets in Bloomington, IL
Choosing the Right Restaurant for You
With 10 excellent places, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Restaurant | Price | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Imperial Buffet | Moderate | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | – |
Shannon’s Five Star | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes |
Pizza Ranch | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes |
Signature India Bloomington | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes |
Baxters American Grille | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes |
Garden of Paradise | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes |
Egg Republic | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | – |
Bloom Bawarchi Indian Restaurant & Bar | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes |
Kochi | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes |
The Tasty Crab | Moderate | Yes | Yes | – | Accessible | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in Bloomington, IL?
The best buffets? Oh, that’s easy. You’ve got Imperial Buffet, Shannon’s Five Star, Pizza Ranch, and Signature India. Don’t miss Baxters American Grille too.
What types of cuisine can I find at buffets in Bloomington, IL?
You can find so many types! From American to Chinese, Japanese to Italian. Oh, and don’t forget Indian and seafood.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options at buffets in Bloomington, IL?
Absolutely! Lots of options. Check out Signature India and Garden of Paradise. Both are great for veggies.
What is the price range for buffets in Bloomington, IL?
It’s pretty reasonable. Most places range from $10 to $30 per person. So, you won’t break the bank.
Do buffets in Bloomington, IL, offer takeout or delivery options?
Yes, some do. Best to call and check first though.
Are there any family-friendly buffets in Bloomington, IL?
Oh, definitely. Pizza Ranch and Egg Republic are perfect for families. Kids will love it there.
Do buffets in Bloomington, IL, have special dietary options?
Yes, they do. Gluten-free, low-carb, you name it. They cater to most needs.
What are the operating hours for buffets in Bloomington, IL?
Hours can vary. Most open for lunch and dinner. Some even do breakfast.
Are reservations required for buffets in Bloomington, IL?
Not usually. But, for big groups, it’s wise to call ahead.
What are some popular dishes at buffets in Bloomington, IL?
Oh, lots! Sushi, prime rib, fried chicken, pizza, and seafood. You’ll find something tasty.