Florence, Alabama may be best known for its soulful music and scenic river views, but its buffet scene deserves a standing ovation too. Whether you’re craving classic Southern comfort or a globe-trotting taste adventure, the city’s buffets are ready to test the limits of your appetite and curiosity. Over years of sampling food from family feasts to office celebrations, I’ve found that a well-curated buffet tells you everything you need to know about a town’s love affair with flavor.
Finding a good buffet is like discovering a secret shortcut to the heart of a community. Florence’s best spots mix home-cooked charm, fresh flavors, and plenty of reasons to go back for seconds. If you’ve ever debated standing in line for hot rolls or eyed the dessert bar before even picking a main, you’re about to get an inside look at the places where locals and visitors gather to eat well. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in.
Where to find the best buffets in Florence, AL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in Florence, AL:
- Golden Corral Restaurants
- CiCi’s Pizza
- Mongolian Grill Buffett
- Buffet China
- Panda buffet
- Tishomingo Cafeteria
1. Golden Corral Restaurants
Golden Corral on Cox Creek Parkway is where serious appetites go to rejoice. The dining room buzzes with families swapping stories over plates that never seem to empty. This buffet is known for its dazzling variety—salads piled high, tender roast beef, and scratch-made sides that keep regulars coming back.
My last visit began with the fresh salad bar, followed by piping hot fried chicken and that famous yeast roll (soft, buttery, and slightly sweet). If you save room, the dessert bar is a rite of passage, especially the bread pudding.
What sets Golden Corral apart is the sheer consistency of quality and choices, no matter when you visit. It’s hard not to appreciate a spot where everyone at your table can find something to crave again tomorrow.
2. CiCi’s Pizza
CiCi’s Pizza on Cox Creek Pkwy is where you go when your pizza cravings don’t know how to stop. This spot is loved for its endless pizza bar, constantly refreshed with inventive toppings and classic favorites. Dining here feels like being a kid at a school pizza party, but with a lot more choices and no need to share.
During my last visit, the thin-crust spinach Alfredo really stood out—creamy, savory, and perfectly baked. The pasta station is worth a try, especially paired with their hearty tomato sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. Don’t skip the cinnamon rolls at dessert; the warmth and sweetness are pure comfort.
CiCi’s stands out for its playful variety and wallet-friendly pricing, making it a dependable choice for families, groups, and solo pizza adventurers alike.
3. Mongolian Grill Buffett
(256) 767-0588Call
Mongolian Grill Buffett in Florence Square never disappoints when you’re looking for fresh, made-your-way meals. The centerpiece is the custom stir-fry station—pick your favorite veggies, sauces, and halal-friendly proteins, then watch the chef bring it all together on a sizzling grill. That hands-on element brings a real sense of fun and lets you tailor your meal just the way you like it.
Last time, I started with crisp broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms, then added chicken and a savory ginger sauce. The result was a plate bursting with color and just the right amount of heat. The buffet also offers classic options like steamed rice and veggie spring rolls for more traditional cravings.
What sets this spot apart is the combination of variety and the promise of a freshly cooked dish every time. If you like your meal a little different each visit, Mongolian Grill Buffett is always a good idea.
4. Buffet China
(256) 247-7705Call
If you’re willing to make a short drive from Florence, Buffet China in Rogersville is a smart stop for a satisfying Asian buffet experience. This place is often praised for its variety and steady rotation of fresh, flavorful dishes, from made-to-order stir fry to classic vegetable lo mein.
Each visit brings something new; one time I loaded up my plate with sautéed green beans, fried rice, and their savory egg drop soup. The highlight is the vegetable selection, which always feels fresh and plentiful.
Buffet China stands out for its comfortable setting and the feeling of always discovering a new favorite on the buffet line. For a dependable selection and a taste of Asian comfort, it’s an easy choice.
5. Panda buffet
Panda Buffet in Russellville is the kind of spot where a quick lunch often turns into an unrushed meal simply because of the choices. This buffet is known for its generous selection of Asian-inspired dishes and a steady stream of fresh items coming out of the kitchen. Large windows light up the casual dining room, giving meals here a friendly, laid-back feel.
On my last visit, I found myself going back for more of the vegetable lo mein and sautéed broccoli—comforting, flavorful, and always hot. The egg drop soup is a local favorite for good reason, and vegetable fried rice makes for a satisfying base plate you can build on.
Panda Buffet stands out thanks to its speedy service and well-balanced mix of flavors. If you’re in the mood for Asian buffets with plenty of variety, it’s worth a short drive from Florence.
6. Tishomingo Cafeteria
(662) 438-7333Call
Tishomingo Cafeteria, tucked away in downtown Tishomingo, is a classic Southern buffet that rewards those willing to take the scenic drive. This spot is beloved for its homestyle atmosphere and a daily spread featuring fresh-cooked vegetables, tender baked chicken, and cornbread that tastes like a family recipe.
On my last trip, I filled my plate with green beans, creamy mashed potatoes, and their famous baked beans. If you catch the macaroni and cheese still bubbling from the oven, you’re in luck—it’s as comforting as anything you’ll find this side of the Natchez Trace.
Tishomingo Cafeteria stands out with genuine, simple food that brings out the best in local produce and Southern staples. Meals here feel like sitting down with neighbors rather than strangers, and that’s part of the charm.
More Things to Try in Florence, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in Florence, AL for families?
Most local families enjoy Golden Corral for its wide range of dishes and relaxed atmosphere. CiCi’s Pizza is another hit, thanks to its playful selection of pizzas and desserts, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Are there any buffets in Florence, AL that offer halal-friendly options?
Mongolian Grill Buffett stands out as a solid spot for halal-friendly buffet choices. You can build your own stir-fry, picking only the items that fit your dietary needs.
Which buffet has the best dessert bar in Florence, AL?
Golden Corral’s dessert bar is always popular, especially for its bread pudding, brownies, and soft-serve ice cream. If you like sweet finishes, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.
Are there Asian buffets near Florence, AL?
Yes, Buffet China and Panda Buffet both offer a strong selection of Asian-inspired dishes and classics like fried rice, stir-fried veggies, and egg drop soup. They’re just a short drive from Florence.
Is there a Southern-style buffet not far from Florence, AL?
Tishomingo Cafeteria in Tishomingo, MS, is popular for classic Southern cooking and homestyle vegetables. It’s well worth the scenic drive if you want true local flavor.
Do I need to make reservations for buffets in Florence, AL?
Reservations aren’t usually needed for most buffets in the area. Weekend evenings can get busy, so arriving early ensures you get your pick of the freshest dishes.