Finding a good buffet in Des Moines feels less like a chore and more like a small adventure. When you’re hungry and your cravings refuse to cooperate, the city’s spread of buffets opens up a world of choices. From bubbling pizza cheese to bold global flavors, Des Moines lines its tables with plates that always seem a bite ahead of average.
Des Moines buffets are not about excess, but about careful variety and reliable flavor. Through bites at countless buffets—some after a late night, others for family get-togethers—I’ve seen where consistency and care shape a memorable meal. Whether you’re charting an office lunch or rallying a crew of picky eaters, this guide will give you the lowdown on each stop, so you can eat with certainty and maybe find a new favorite.
1. Malo
Malo lights up downtown Des Moines with vibrant Latin flavors and an easy-going atmosphere. It’s more than just a place to eat—it’s where you savor dishes that dance between tradition and creativity. My first visit was fueled by curiosity and ended with a table full of happy taste testers, each of us zeroing in on a favorite.
The lunch buffet brings a mix of fresh salsas, black bean dishes, and grilled veggies—a balanced snapshot of Latin American comfort. Their taco bar is a must, letting you build your own with layers of rice, seasoned beans, and zesty toppings. Every bite is a blend of color and spice that shows Malo’s way with bold yet balanced meals.
Vegetarian and gluten-free diners find plenty of options, so no one feels left out. For a true Malo taste, pair your plate with house-made guacamole and one of their signature non-alcoholic drinks.
2. W Chinese Buffet
(515) 528-8235Call
W Chinese Buffet serves up a spread that wraps comfort and variety into a single experience. Nestled in the Park Fair Mall, this spot caught my attention on a rainy afternoon when only a steaming plate could lift my mood. The atmosphere is unfussy, letting the food do the talking.
W Chinese Buffet stands out for its generous selection of stir-fried vegetables, fluffy rice, and classic noodle dishes. Their buffet table is always busy, but you never feel rushed. The fresh veggie stir-fry with a side of tofu is a standout—light yet flavorful, and perfect for anyone craving authenticity without heavy spices.
Pair your plate with steamed dumplings or sautéed greens for a full taste of their kitchen’s skill. It’s the type of buffet that quietly impresses, bite after bite.
3. International Buffet
International Buffet is where Des Moines comes together over a mosaic of global flavors. My first plate here felt like taking a food tour without leaving my seat—the choices stretch from classic Asian-inspired fare to comforting American sides.
What sets International Buffet apart is its diversity and freshness. Their stir-fried vegetables and delicate lo mein noodles stand out for flavor and texture, always replenished and pleasingly warm. I found myself going back for servings of stir-fried broccoli and fried rice, a combination that’s simple but spot-on.
The buffet also caters to lighter appetites with a fresh salad bar and a rotating array of seasonal fruit. It’s that quiet reliability and unexpected variety that keeps people coming back, one plate at a time.
4. CiCi’s Pizza
CiCi’s Pizza is a familiar name for anyone craving a relaxed, all-you-can-eat pizza fix in Des Moines. Walking in, the scent of freshly baked dough takes over, and the bright dining room fills quickly during lunch and family nights. My fondest memory? Piling slices next to friends, each of us building a “pizza sampler” at our own table.
What sets CiCi’s apart is its array of pizza styles—from thin crust to deep pan, all with vegetarian options. Their salad bar adds crispness to the meal, while the pasta station brings comfort in every bite. The classic cheese and veggie pizzas stay popular for a reason: reliable, fresh, and always hot out of the oven.
CiCi’s makes group outings easy, offering something for every pizza preference and appetite size.
5. Noah’s Ark Restaurant
Noah’s Ark Restaurant is a local favorite steeped in tradition and family warmth. It’s the kind of spot that feels like home from the moment you step in, thanks to its friendly staff and inviting atmosphere. My last visit turned a quick lunch into an afternoon well spent, surrounded by comfort food and good company.
What makes Noah’s Ark stand out is its varied buffet that leans into Italian and continental classics. The salad bar bursts with fresh choices, while their pasta bar delivers on taste and texture. The vegetarian lasagna and made-to-order pasta are my go-to options—both rich in flavor, served piping hot, and always satisfying.
Noah’s Ark manages to strike a balance between nostalgia and quality, making it a must-visit for buffet lovers seeking a taste of Des Moines’ culinary roots.
6. New China Buffet & Grill
New China Buffet & Grill is where the scope of choices surprises you. My last visit turned a simple dinner into a sample-fest, with plates rotating from flavorful stir-fries to unexpected American standards, all under one roof. The friendly staff keeps the atmosphere upbeat and family-friendly, so groups of all ages feel at home.
What sets this buffet apart is its broad selection and value. You’ll find fresh steamed vegetables, classic lo mein, and veggie sushi rolls alongside homestyle sides like roasted potatoes and baked pizza. It’s all about quality and freshness; every tray is refilled often and nothing sits too long.
The highlight? The made-to-order grill section delivers that extra boost for picky eaters or anyone wanting something built from scratch. Whether you stick to Asian specialties or venture into comfort classics, New China Buffet & Grill makes every visit interesting.
7. HomeTown Buffet
(515) 961-4545Call
HomeTown Buffet feels like a nod to classic comfort, just a short drive from Des Moines in Indianola. Stepping inside reminds me of big family gatherings, where everyone leaves full and happy. The buffet line hums with anticipation, offering a little something for every taste.
The real charm here is in the simple, hearty dishes. Think fluffy mashed potatoes, seasoned green beans, and baked vegetarian pasta. There’s a steady rotation of fresh salads for those wanting lighter fare. The atmosphere encourages lingering—a place to enjoy not just the food, but the company, too.
If you want a meal that covers your comfort food cravings without fuss, HomeTown Buffet is a solid pick for a laid-back dining experience.
8. Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade
Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade is where entertainment meets hearty eating, making it a lively destination in Ankeny. I once visited for a birthday party and quickly saw why this place draws families and pizza fans alike. Between games and laughter, the buffet calls everyone back to the table.
The standout here is the endless spread of pizza varieties—from classic cheese to veggie-packed pies—all baked fresh and replenished often. The salad bar and signature potato wedges round out a meal that is both fun and satisfying.
Whether you’re here for the buffet or the arcade, Pizza Ranch makes it easy to refuel after a round of games. It’s the kind of spot that creates memories as easily as it fills plates.
9. Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, Hotel
Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, Hotel offers more than games and racing; its buffet draws a diverse crowd of locals and visitors ready for a relaxed meal. I remember an evening here turning into a marathon tasting session, as the aroma from the buffet made it hard to stick with only one plate.
The buffet here stands out for its fresh salad station, robust potato dishes, and made-to-order pastas. There’s attention to every detail, from crisp greens to roasted veggies that taste homemade. The cheese-stuffed shells and roasted vegetable medley give you a sample of their knack for simple, flavorful cooking.
With friendly service and generous selections, Prairie Meadows turns a buffet meal into a satisfying pause between the day’s other adventures.
10. Paradise Italian Grill
(515) 222-9959Call
Paradise Italian Grill is a bright spot for Italian comfort, easily earning its reputation with creative twists on classics. My go-to memory here centers on a lunch buffet, where the display of pastas and pizzas makes you wish you had extra room. This spot crafts each dish with obvious care and a splash of fun.
Paradise shines with its signature crock pizza—an individual pie with layers of sauce, cheese, and veggies baked under a golden crust. Their pasta buffet rotates options like creamy alfredo and tomato basil penne, always paired with a basket of homemade bread for good measure.
Vegetarian choices and made-to-order salads mean every guest finds something tempting. Paradise Italian Grill turns any weekday into a relaxed, Italian-style feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in Des Moines for families?
Buffets like Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade and New China Buffet & Grill are popular with families for their friendly atmosphere, wide variety, and kid-friendly options.
Are there vegetarian-friendly buffets in Des Moines?
Yes, spots such as Malo, International Buffet, and Paradise Italian Grill offer several vegetarian choices and fresh salad bars, ensuring plenty of options beyond the basics.
Do any buffets offer gluten-free dishes?
Malo and Paradise Italian Grill stand out for their gluten-free selections. Always confirm with staff, as buffet items can change daily.
Which buffet has the best pizza in Des Moines?
CiCi’s Pizza and Pizza Ranch are top contenders for all-you-can-eat pizza variety, catering to both classic and creative tastes.
Are there buffets with both American and Asian cuisine?
New China Buffet & Grill and International Buffet feature both American and Asian favorites, allowing diners to mix and match their plates.