Florence, SC isn’t just a stop on the map; it’s a real highlight for anyone chasing the perfect buffet. In this small city, the right buffet isn’t just about endless trays of food. It’s about that hum of conversation, the flood of homegrown flavors, and the simple comfort of knowing you’ll get seconds of your favorite dish. I still remember the first time I strolled into a Florence buffet hungry enough to try a bit of everything. Every table felt like it was hosting a family reunion, and the staff made you feel like you belonged right there with them.
This guide comes from tried-and-true experience—fork, knife, and all. Whether you’re after buttery mashed potatoes, crispy fried chicken, or a plate piled high with fresh pizza, you’re in the right place. The best Florence buffets balance plenty of options, genuine Southern hospitality, and halal-friendly dishes, so you won’t leave disappointed. Keep reading to discover which spots belong on your must-visit list.
Where to find the best buffets in Florence, SC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in Florence, SC:
- Golden Corral Restaurants
- Struttin-Turkey
- New China Buffet
- Thunderbird Country Buffet Restaurant
- Western Sizzlin
- Missy’s Cafe
- CiCi’s Pizza
- China Buffett
- Julia’s Buffet
- Sweet T
1. Golden Corral Restaurants
Golden Corral has earned its place as a Florence staple for buffet lovers who crave variety and comfort in every bite. The first time I stepped inside, the range of dishes set my appetite into overdrive.
This spot stands out for its made-from-scratch dishes that taste just like home. I gravitate toward their creamy mac and cheese and mashed potatoes—pillowy, buttery, and undeniably satisfying. If you’re after something with a Southern twist, try the bourbon street chicken. It’s a house favorite for good reason.
The bakery section is also a treat, with yeast rolls soft as clouds and cakes baked fresh daily. Whether you’re eating with family or flying solo, Golden Corral’s buffet brings everyone to the table.
2. Struttin-Turkey
(843) 673-2727Call
Struttin-Turkey packs local flavor into every bite, making it a standout among Florence’s buffets. The moment you walk in, you’re drawn in by the aroma of hearty Southern classics. I remember chatting with regulars while piling my plate with their signature turkey—moist, tender, and always the centerpiece of the buffet.
The sides here steal the show just as much as the main courses. Their slow-cooked greens and fluffy cornbread are crowd favorites. It’s comfort food that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Save room for the homemade desserts. The peach cobbler is warm and just sweet enough to round off a meal, and it fits the laid-back, welcoming vibe the restaurant is known for.
3. New China Buffet
New China Buffet is where Florence gets its fix for crispy, flavorful Asian cuisine. Stepping inside, I’m always met with a cheerful buzz and steaming trays that never disappoint. The buffet delivers a plenty of variety, with fresh offerings for everyone at the table.
The vegetable fried rice and stir-fried broccoli are standouts, each cooked just right and bursting with flavor. I never miss the spring rolls—crisp, light, and perfect as a starter. Their buffet lets you sample a broad spectrum of dishes without feeling rushed.
Dessert options hold up, too. The fresh fruit and jelly cubes make a nice, refreshing finish to the meal. This spot proves that great buffet dining isn’t only about quantity—it’s also about quality and choice.
4. Thunderbird Country Buffet Restaurant
(843) 664-0082Call
Thunderbird Country Buffet Restaurant does comfort food like only a true Southern kitchen can. It’s where locals gather for hearty meals, and travelers find a taste of home. I remember a rainy afternoon here, tucking into a plate full of hot sides while the world slowed down outside.
This buffet shines with its homestyle vegetables and stews, whether you go for creamy squash casserole or down-home green beans. Each bite tastes like something straight from grandma’s kitchen.
The salad bar holds its own, packed with crisp, fresh options making it easy to build a plate you’ll actually crave. The Thunderbird offers value, comfort, and real Florence tradition in every bite.
5. Western Sizzlin
Western Sizzlin puts its own spin on buffet dining, with a nod to steakhouse tradition and a menu that’s always robust. Visiting here, I was greeted by the aroma of their legendary Flamekist steaks—and yes, you can skip the steak and head straight to the buffet if you want to keep things halal.
The hot bar covers all the favorites: perfectly seasoned vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and bread baked fresh daily. The salad bar is generous and vibrant, encouraging you to load up your plate with fresh greens and toppings.
Save space for the dessert bar, which offers cakes and soft-serve that end the meal on a sweet note. Western Sizzlin’s attention to quality ingredients shows up in every dish.
6. Missy’s Cafe
Missy’s Cafe is the kind of spot that feels like a community hub as much as a buffet. I was hooked from my first visit, when locals chatted across tables and you could hear bursts of laughter between bites.
This buffet leans into simple, well-made favorites, with a fresh salad bar and an array of Southern vegetables that truly shine. The homemade mashed potatoes and seasoned greens were standouts on my last trip—they tasted like something you’d put on your plate at a family reunion.
If you have room, head for their selection of sweets, with desserts that round out the meal without overpowering it. Missy’s manages to capture Florence comfort food in all the right ways while keeping things approachable and friendly.
7. CiCi’s Pizza
CiCi’s Pizza nails the buffet concept with a lineup tailored for pizza fans and families alike. The first time I walked in, the sheer spread of fresh, hot pizzas drew me in—crisp crusts and plenty of topping options for every taste.
The pasta and salad bars are perfect for balancing out your slice count, with crisp veggies and classic pasta dishes keeping things interesting. You can try a bit of everything without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Dessert deserves a mention, especially the cinnamon rolls, which are a sweet way to wrap up the meal. CiCi’s offers a casual, lively spot to get your pizza fix and makes buffet dining easy for both groups and solo visitors.
8. China Buffett
(843) 394-5583Call
China Buffett in Lake City brings a refreshing approach to classic Chinese cuisine in buffet form. My first visit surprised me with the clean, inviting layout and dishes that tasted bright and freshly made—not always a given at buffets.
There’s a steady stream of steamed vegetables, lo mein, and stir-fried favorites, all packed with flavor and never swimming in sauce. The vegetable egg rolls and sautéed green beans stand out, proving that simple is often best.
The dessert bar keeps things light, with fresh fruit rounding out the meal perfectly. China Buffett is the place to go if you want variety without sacrificing freshness or a sense of calm amid the lunchtime rush.
9. Julia’s Buffet
(843) 332-1117Call
Julia’s Buffet keeps things classic with an all-you-can-eat lineup that makes you feel right at home. My last visit was all about home-cooked comfort, the kind that sticks with you long after you leave. There’s an easygoing energy to the place that’s easy to settle into.
The vegetable casseroles and seasoned greens are real highlights, standing out for their balance of flavor and simplicity. Every dish looks like it was cooked with care rather than just churned out.
For those who like to end on a sweet note, the dessert table offers an array of cakes that taste homemade. Julia’s delivers that classic Southern buffet experience—minus the fuss.
10. Sweet T
Sweet T brings genuine Southern comfort to Pamplico, serving up a buffet that keeps regulars coming back for more. My visit was all about the warm, welcoming vibe—which extends from the staff to the hearty servings on every plate.
The buffet features a rotation of home-cooked classics, but their seasoned vegetables and baked casseroles are worth a second helping. The cornbread stays perfectly moist, and the squash casserole reminded me of family Sunday lunches.
Dessert is a highlight, with cobbler and cakes that make a sweet finish. Sweet T’s is easy to love for its honest, no-frills approach to buffet dining—where every bite feels like home.
More Things to Try in Florence, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in Florence, SC?
Some of the most popular buffets include Golden Corral, New China Buffet, Thunderbird Country Buffet Restaurant, Western Sizzlin, and Missy’s Cafe. Each one brings something unique, whether you want Southern comfort, endless pizza, or Asian flavors.
Are there any halal-friendly buffets in Florence, SC?
While there aren’t dedicated halal buffets, many offer plenty of seafood, vegetarian, and plant-based dishes for guests with dietary needs. It’s always best to call ahead to confirm current options.
Which buffet is best for families with kids?
CiCi’s Pizza stands out with a kid-friendly selection and dessert bar, while Golden Corral and Western Sizzlin are also favorites for family outings thanks to their variety and relaxed atmosphere.
Do Florence buffets offer vegetarian options?
Yes, most buffets keep a solid lineup of vegetarian sides, salads, and vegetable entrées. New China Buffet and Missy’s Cafe are known for their selection of vegetable dishes.
What’s the typical price range for buffets in Florence, SC?
Prices range from budget-friendly spots like CiCi’s Pizza and Missy’s Cafe to higher-end choices such as Golden Corral and Western Sizzlin. Generally, you can expect to pay between $10 to $20 per adult, depending on the meal and day of the week.