Buffets can stir up that rare mix of nostalgia and anticipation, right before you stroll past steaming trays and overflowing salad bars. Cedar Rapids has its own brand of buffet charm that isn’t just about piling plates high—it’s also about discovering familiar comfort foods alongside new favorites. If you know the sweet rhythm of clinking plates and the gentle hum of hungry people debating seconds, you’ll feel immediately at home in the right Cedar Rapids buffet.
After countless “just one more trip” moments in local dining halls, I’ve had the pleasure (and the occasional food coma) of sampling buffets across this city. This guide skips the empty promises and sticks to well-loved local gems—where each spread has something to offer. From family classics to unexpected flavors, you’ll find honest, varied choices. Ready to dig in? Let’s take the mystery out of finding the best buffets in Cedar Rapids.
1. Metro Buffet Inc
(319) 362-5550Call
Metro Buffet Inc, tucked into the Southwest Area, always feels alive with activity. The atmosphere is unpretentious and inviting, drawing in regulars who appreciate both variety and value. My last visit had me staring indecisively at a spread stacked with fresh vegetables and hot entrees—each looking tempting in its own way.
This buffet leans into classic Chinese-American comfort food, but it’s their fried rice and steamed vegetables that kept my plate coming back for more. The sautéed chicken, perfectly seasoned, and the crisp green beans are staples here.
Metro Buffet’s blend of friendly service and reliable flavors makes it a smart pick for families or groups. If you crave something filling and familiar, this spot delivers without fuss. There’s even a cold bar stocked with fruits for a lighter finish.
2. Great Dragon Buffet
(319) 294-0397Call
Great Dragon Buffet balances efficiency with bold, classic flavors. It’s popular for lunch crowds and families who turn up hungry and leave satisfied. The dining room is spacious, so you never feel rushed, and the aroma will pull you right to the buffet line.
What puts Great Dragon Buffet on the map? The hot-and-sour soup and stir-fried noodles always taste freshly made. When I stopped in, I kept circling back for the chicken with broccoli. The flavors run deep, and the vegetables hold their texture, which isn’t guaranteed at every buffet.
The sushi bar surprised me with its simplicity and freshness—perfect for anyone wanting a lighter bite. Great Dragon nails consistency and value, making it a safe bet when you want your favorites, hot and hearty, every time.
3. Ryan’s
Ryan’s feels like a reliable anchor for anyone craving classic American comfort food in buffet form. The dining area channels that homey vibe with roomy tables and the steady hum of families sharing a meal. What sets Ryan’s apart is its crowd-pleasing variety—it has something for every kind of picky eater.
My go-to plate at Ryan’s features their buttery mashed potatoes, green beans, and a slice of their oven-baked fish. The salad bar is surprisingly fresh, and I’ve found kids especially love the mac and cheese.
This is a spot where you can relax, fill your plate your way, and not worry about frills. Ryan’s delivers on all the comfort classics that define Cedar Rapids-style buffets.
4. Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade
Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade brings a double dose of fun—game time and buffet refueling under one roof. This is a magnet for family groups and anyone who likes their meal with a side of competition. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, and the aroma of baking pizza fills the air from the moment you walk in.
The buffet draws crowds for two big reasons: fresh, customizable pizzas and The Country’s Best Chicken. I found joy in watching kids assemble salad plates between games, then dive for a slice when a new pizza arrives piping hot.
Don’t overlook the hearty mashed potatoes or fresh vegetables—they round out the pizza-and-arcade combo perfectly. For anyone in Cedar Rapids seeking an experience that entertains and feeds, this spot rises above the usual.
5. George’s Buffet
George’s Buffet isn’t quite your typical buffet—it’s more of an Iowa City landmark with a cult following. Known for its cozy setting and old-school charm, it’s the type of place where regulars will nod hello as you walk in. My trips to George’s are always about the relaxed pace and unpretentious bites.
Instead of a traditional spread, George’s focuses on grilled specialties and hearty sides. The grilled chicken sandwiches are the star, juicy and flavorful with a perfect char. Order up a basket of their crispy fries on the side, and you’ll quickly see why this spot creates such loyalty.
George’s offers an inviting pause from the fancier buffets in town, delivering quality over quantity every time.
6. HomeTown Buffet
(319) 622-3417Call
HomeTown Buffet takes the idea of comfort food and makes it the star of the show. This spot leans into familiar, homespun cooking, so if you crave something that feels like a family gathering, you’re set. My own plate usually starts with a fresh salad before I circle back for second helpings.
The buffet lines feature classic American dishes—think roasted chicken, seasonal vegetables, and fluffy mashed potatoes. The cornbread is a sleeper hit, perfectly moist and just sweet enough to balance a savory meal.
HomeTown Buffet’s steady crowd says a lot—locals return for the easygoing vibe and hearty flavors. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense option when you want tradition done right on every visit.
7. Golden Palace Buffet
Golden Palace Buffet in Marion turns the everyday buffet experience into something memorable with its broad selection and bright, welcoming space. The staff here has a knack for keeping the buffet fresh and appealing, even during the busiest lunch hours. I’ve found Golden Palace to be a calm option for groups who want plenty to choose from without any fuss.
What makes this spot pop is its rotating lineup of stir-fried classics and vibrant steamed vegetables. The egg drop soup and vegetable lo mein are consistently satisfying. When I visit, I can’t resist piling my plate with their sesame chicken—it’s crisp, lightly sauced, and never overwhelming.
Golden Palace Buffet offers dependable quality and a wide range of flavors that will please both adventurous eaters and those who know exactly what they want from a Cedar Rapids buffet.
8. Mi Casa Authentic Mexican Grill
Mi Casa Authentic Mexican Grill shakes up the Cedar Rapids buffet scene with lively flavors and a true taste of Mexico. Visiting on a buffet day feels like a small celebration—families and friends swap stories over colorful plates piled high. The warm, welcoming staff creates a homey, relaxed spirit that sets it apart from more standard buffets.
The lunch buffet highlights chicken enchiladas, vegetable tamales, and freshly made salsa. My last trip included a handful of sizzling fajitas, with just enough spice to spark conversation.
If you’re craving variety, their salad and vegetarian plates fit right in. Mi Casa’s approach is simple: bold flavors, generous portions, and consistently fresh dishes that capture the essence of Mexican home cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the top buffets in Cedar Rapids, IA?
The best spots include Metro Buffet Inc, Great Dragon Buffet, Ryan’s, Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade, George’s Buffet, HomeTown Buffet, Golden Palace Buffet, and Mi Casa Authentic Mexican Grill. Each offers its own flare, from Chinese classics to homestyle American and vibrant Mexican plates.
Q: Are there any buffets in Cedar Rapids with vegetarian options?
Yes. Most buffets, including Metro Buffet Inc, Golden Palace Buffet, and Mi Casa Authentic Mexican Grill, offer fresh vegetable dishes, salads, and meatless entrees suitable for vegetarians.
Q: Which buffet is best for families with kids?
Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade stands out with its family-friendly atmosphere, arcade games, and crowd-pleasing pizza buffet. Ryan’s and HomeTown Buffet are also popular for their kid-friendly selections and comfortable seating.
Q: Do any buffets in Cedar Rapids have halal food?
Halal options are not common, but some buffets may offer suitable vegetarian or seafood dishes. Always call ahead to discuss your dietary needs with each restaurant directly.
Q: Are there gluten-free options at Cedar Rapids buffets?
You’ll find simple salads, steamed vegetables, and some grilled meats that fit gluten-free diets at many buffets. Ask the staff to point out safe choices when you arrive.
Q: Is it necessary to make a reservation for buffets?
Reservations aren’t usually needed for most Cedar Rapids buffets, but large groups might call ahead, especially during weekends or holidays.
