Buffets in Destin, FL offer more than just a meal—they’re a full culinary adventure. Picture this: the gentle salt breeze drifting in off the Gulf, plates stacked with every color and flavor you could crave, and a dining room that hums with happy diners. That’s not just nostalgia talking. On my last trip to Destin, I put my appetite to work and tested plates from sunrise brunches to seafood feasts, finding gems that locals quietly recommend to their friends.
If you love endless choices and fresh picks, Destin’s buffet scene promises plenty to explore. From elegant seafood spreads to family-friendly Western and Asian favorites, each stop on this list brings something unique. I tracked down buffets with the most loyal followings, the cleanest spreads, and the widest variety of halal-friendly options. Whether you’re hungry after a day at the beach or gathering the group for an easy dinner, this guide highlights a lineup where you don’t have to settle for “just okay.” Dive into Destin’s best buffets, and come hungry for both flavor and surprises.
Where to find the best buffets in Destin, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in Destin, FL:
- Fuji Sushi and Seafood Buffet
- Gilligan’s Seafood
- Captain Kidd’s
- Ole Times Country Buffet
- Great Wall Super Buffet
- New Dragon Chinese Restaurant
- First Choice Buffet
- Ocean Buffet
- International Buffet
- Golden Corral Restaurants
1. Fuji Sushi and Seafood Buffet
Fuji Sushi and Seafood Buffet blends fresh seafood with classic Japanese flair. This spot never feels rushed, even during a busy dinner rush. Last time I went, the sushi rolls were neatly arranged and replenished almost as soon as they left the platter.
The spacious dining area, complete with family-friendly seating and takeout options, makes it easy to relax. Staff move quietly, always nearby when you need a refill or recommendation.
What stands out most is the impressive range of flavors on the buffet—clean-tasting salmon sashimi, plump shrimp, and light vegetarian sushi rolls. The made-to-order hibachi is both a crowd-pleaser and a reliable choice if you want a break from sushi. Try the fresh fruit to finish your meal on a sweet note.
2. Gilligan’s Seafood
Gilligan’s Seafood dishes up waterfront dining with a relaxed energy you can only get on Destin Harbor. I remember sitting by the window, watching boats come in as generous buffet platters rotated from the kitchen. This spot is known for keeping things simple and fresh—just how locals like it.
Families find plenty of space, and the staff never seem rushed; they answer menu questions with genuine advice. The buffet lineup highlights ultra-fresh shrimp and rotating seasonal catches, cooked gently to showcase their natural flavors.
If you visit, don’t miss the lightly seasoned fish fillets and classic vegetable sides. Pair your selection with rice or their crisp salads for a filling, well-balanced meal. Gilligan’s feels like vacation, plate after plate.
3. Captain Kidd’s
Captain Kidd’s sits close to Destin Harbor, and walking in, you get that classic coastal atmosphere—casual, lively, and never pretentious. My first visit started with a warm greeting and ended with a full, happy table. The layout of the buffet makes tasting a little of everything easy, which helps if you like sampling rather than committing to just one dish.
Seafood is the clear standout here, from shrimp and baked fish to unexpected salad and veggie options that balance out the heavier fare. Each dish has a just-caught freshness that keeps the flavors from feeling repetitive.
Try the steamed fish paired with simple vegetable sides. It’s a reliable favorite and always well-prepared. If you’ve got a group with different tastes, Captain Kidd’s manages to make everyone happy—never fussy, always satisfying.
4. Ole Times Country Buffet
(850) 460-7989Call
Ole Times Country Buffet feels like finding a cozy kitchen in the middle of Destin. On my last visit, I was greeted by the comforting aroma of home-cooked favorites. The variety here is a pleasant surprise—think hearty vegetable casseroles and savory rice dishes, all cooked with a Southern touch.
This buffet knows how to keep things simple and true to its roots, with a spread that feels homemade rather than mass-produced. The vegetable medley is a solid pick, paired with mashed potatoes or seasoned beans for a classic, filling plate.
If you’re a fan of comfort food, don’t skip the fresh salads and fluffy bread rolls. Ole Times lets you slow down and savor the kind of meal that sticks with you, long after you leave the table.
5. Great Wall Super Buffet
(850) 654-0664Call
Great Wall Super Buffet delivers variety and value in equal measure. My plate quickly filled up with steamed vegetables, flavorful noodles, and a rotating lineup of crowd-pleasing stir-fries. This is the kind of spot where you can build a meal your way and try new combinations each time.
The buffet stays fresh and well-stocked, with attentive staff keeping things tidy and full. Friendly smiles from behind the counter help set a relaxed, no-rush mood—even during lunch hour.
If you go, start with the vegetable fried rice, then move on to crisp sautéed greens and tofu dishes. Great Wall Super Buffet is ideal for those who like to mix it up while keeping things familiar and comforting.
6. New Dragon Chinese Restaurant
New Dragon Chinese Restaurant serves up generous portions in a bright, unfussy setting that welcomes families and solo diners alike. I remember dropping by on a rainy afternoon and finding the buffet steaming, lively, and stocked with comforting favorites. The vegetable lo mein and steamed broccoli were especially satisfying—fresh, not greasy, and full of flavor.
The buffet here is a blend of classic Chinese staples and lighter Mongolian options, making it easy to build a balanced meal. Staff refill the trays often, so everything stays hot and appetizing.
Start with an egg drop soup and a simple vegetable fried rice. New Dragon is a sure bet for affordable variety and consistent quality, right in the heart of Destin.
7. First Choice Buffet
First Choice Buffet feels tucked away but manages to draw regulars with its consistent quality. My last visit started with a friendly hello at the door and ended with a plate piled high with stir-fried favorites. The space is clean, bright, and always buzzing at peak times.
The spread here covers a little bit of everything—Chinese classics, sushi rolls, and fresh salads. This buffet is perfect if you want variety without feeling overwhelmed by options. Staff make it easy to enjoy your meal, quietly refilling trays and checking in as you eat.
Order the sautéed green beans and mushroom dishes for a lighter plate, then finish with a simple fruit salad. First Choice lives up to its name for both flavor and value in the Destin area.
8. Ocean Buffet
Ocean Buffet in Fort Walton Beach is a worthwhile destination if you love exploring global flavors in one sitting. My experience there was like a culinary world tour—no passport required. The sheer size of the buffet is impressive, but it’s the attention to detail in each dish that stands out.
The sushi and Mongolian grill are the main draws, both prepared with fresh ingredients and clean flavors. I went for a second helping of the seasoned shrimp and sautéed greens, both light yet satisfying options among many choices.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a little of everything from the Vietnamese soup bar and vegetable stir-fries. Ocean Buffet is where variety meets reliability, leaving both families and solitary diners grinning with full plates.
9. International Buffet
International Buffet sits just a quick drive from Destin, making it a practical choice for anyone craving a broad sampling of world cuisines. On my last visit, I was impressed by how neatly each station was kept and how staff made sure everyone felt at ease. Every plate feels customizable, with a wide range of vegetable, noodle, and rice dishes featured alongside familiar Asian favorites.
The hot bar rotates its offerings and always seems stocked with fresh, brightly flavored options. The sushi here is also surprisingly good, with each roll made fresh and offered in smaller batches to keep things crisp and appealing.
Order a mix of sautéed vegetables and tofu, then finish your meal with the seasonal fruit bowl. International Buffet makes it easy to sample widely without sacrificing quality or atmosphere.
10. Golden Corral Restaurants
Golden Corral in Fort Walton Beach delivers the kind of buffet that’s built for big appetites and bigger groups. I once watched a family reunion unfold here, and the laughter was almost as steady as the flow of fresh hot food on the line. Space is never an issue and the buffet stays inviting from open to close.
The wide variety sets Golden Corral apart: fresh salads, baked potatoes, and a rotating selection of steamed vegetables lay the foundation for a hearty meal. There’s always a hot soup or two, making it easy to warm up if you arrive on a breezy evening.
Try the grilled fish with a side of seasoned greens. Golden Corral makes crowd-pleasing, customizable plates a breeze for any gathering.
More Things to Try in Destin, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cuisine can I find at buffets in Destin, FL?
Buffets in this area offer a mix of seafood, Asian, Southern comfort food, and classic American fare. Many places provide a broad range, so you can sample sushi, fresh fish, salads, and more in a single visit.
Are there halal-friendly options at Destin buffets?
Some buffets include halal-friendly items like seafood, vegetarian, and vegetable-based dishes. It’s always best to call ahead if you have specific dietary needs.
Which buffets are good for families or large groups?
Family-friendly options like Golden Corral, Ole Times Country Buffet, and Fuji Sushi and Seafood Buffet offer spacious seating and plenty of choices for different tastes.
Can I get takeout from buffets in Destin?
Yes, many buffets offer takeout by weight or through special trays. This is a flexible option if you’d rather enjoy your meal by the beach or at your rental.
What is the average price range at Destin buffets?
Prices vary, but most buffets fall between $10 and $25 per person. Seafood-heavy or international buffets tend to be a bit higher, especially for dinner service.