Buffet lovers know the pure joy of a bustling spread—tray after tray of fresh dishes, all yours for the picking. In Garden City, NY, the scene is anything but bland. Whether you crave rich international flavors, crave-worthy comfort food, or a halal-friendly selection, there’s truly something for every kind of appetite. I remember sampling plate after plate one rainy Saturday, determined to find the best crispy cauliflower, the brightest salads, and the perfect rice pudding. My taste buds left happy, my curiosity fueled for round two.
Finding a great buffet isn’t just about endless options—it’s about finding those spots that get the details right. With this handpicked list, you won’t waste time sifting through letdowns or guessing which buffet tracks with your needs. Each restaurant here has its own style and draws, whether you want a quiet bite with family or a feast worthy of a celebration. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to go in Garden City for food that’s fresh, memorable, and deliciously satisfying.
Where to find the best buffets in Garden City, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in Garden City, NY:
- Mint Restaurant
- Great Wall Restaurant
- Creole Buffet
- Old Country Buffet
- Chens Buffet
- Ashlee’s Buffet
- Hubert Buffet
- Samba Grill Brazillian Buffet
- Fuji Buffet
- East West Buffet
1. Mint Restaurant
**Mint Restaurant brings a fresh, upscale touch to Garden City’s buffet options.** The space feels inviting, with modern decor and attentive staff that make you want to stick around for seconds. My first visit left me impressed by both the quality and the creativity on display—think vibrant curries, light salads, and perfectly fluffy naan.
**Mint is your spot if you like bold flavors without the fuss of crowded plate lines.** Their buffet often features standouts like fragrant biryani, silky dal, and a smart mix of vegetarian favorites. When the palak paneer hits the table, go back for more; it’s creamy and loaded with just the right spice.
**For a memorable experience, try their roasted cauliflower or the lentil specialties.** The spice profiles are balanced, and every bite speaks to careful preparation. If you’re new, don’t skip dessert–their rice pudding wraps up your meal on a sweet, mellow note.
2. Great Wall Restaurant
**Great Wall Restaurant in Garden City serves up comforting Chinese classics with a buffet that’s always generous and unfussy.** The polite staff keeps dishes fresh and the atmosphere relaxed, making it a favorite for casual buffet seekers. My most recent visit was on a chilly afternoon—warm wonton soup hit the spot, and the fried rice lived up to its reputation.
**What makes Great Wall special is its balance of variety and consistency.** You’ll find well-executed staples like mixed vegetable stir-fry, tender broccoli in garlic sauce, and light-as-air steamed dumplings. The sesame tofu wins over vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike with its soft texture and sweet glaze.
**Order up the crispy veggie spring rolls and don’t skip the sautéed string beans.** The flavors here are straightforward and satisfying, designed for hungry diners who want quality without the fuss. For me, it’s a clear go-to when you want great taste on an easy budget.
3. Creole Buffet
(516) 489-3542Call
**Creole Buffet adds a unique flavor to the Garden City buffet landscape.** The atmosphere is spirited and welcoming, hinting at the bold, soulful food that lines its buffet tables. When I last visited, the aroma of slow-cooked vegetables greeted me at the door—already a good sign.
**What sets Creole Buffet apart is its vibrant seasoning and home-style recipes.** Each dish offers a burst of flavor without being too heavy or overwhelming. The vegetable jambalaya stands out, with its aromatic rice and blend of peppers, keeping things lively yet balanced.
**Be sure to try the creole-style okra and the sweet corn casserole.** Both reflect the kitchen’s knack for classic comfort with a twist. A meal here feels like a quick escape to another world, right in the middle of Uniondale.
4. Old Country Buffet
(516) 214-6375Call
**Old Country Buffet brings comfort and nostalgia to the all-you-can-eat scene near Garden City.** Step inside and you’ll spot families tucking into hearty, home-style meals. I still remember my first visit: the buzz of the dining room, warmth in the air, and the unmistaken fragrance of mashed potatoes and seasoned vegetables.
**The buffet excels at variety, catering to classic tastes and making sure everyone finds something to smile about.** Some highlights? Their green bean casserole and buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes. Both dishes take me right back to family dinners when I was a kid.
**Load your plate with roasted seasonal vegetables and pillowy rolls.** The flavors are simple, comforting, and familiar—perfect for anyone craving traditional favorites done right.
5. Chens Buffet
(516) 750-8868Call
**Chens Buffet is one of those hidden gems you stumble on and wish you’d found sooner.** The space is clean, bright, and unpretentious. On my last visit, the kitchen crew kept the buffet trays full, and the vibe felt both easygoing and inviting.
**What impresses here is the selection of fresh, well-seasoned vegetable and tofu dishes.** The stir-fried bok choy held its crunch, and the lo mein felt light, never oily. I found myself heading back for more leafy greens—a rare buffet move, but totally worth it.
**Don’t miss their sweet potato tempura or the steamed broccoli.** Each bite proves that even the humble vegetable can be a star. Chens strikes a balance between satisfying your cravings and keeping things healthy.
6. Ashlee’s Buffet
(516) 486-2000Call
**Ashlee’s Buffet is a cheerful spot where families and friends come together over great food.** The buffet lines are always stocked, and the quick, attentive staff keep everything moving smoothly. My earliest memory here was a birthday lunch—colorful salads, creamy mac and cheese, and laughter echoing through the dining room.
**Ashlee’s shines with its mix of crowd-pleasing favorites and a few unexpected spins.** The vegetable medley stands out—savory, bright, and never mushy. For something with heart, their potato gratin is rich and perfectly seasoned.
**Go for their herbed rice or the roasted squash medley.** Both reflect Ashlee’s care for simple ingredients cooked with real flavor. No matter your age, you’ll find something here that earns a repeat visit.
7. Hubert Buffet
(516) 280-9432Call
**Hubert Buffet is the definition of neighborhood comfort dining, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind.** There’s a simplicity to both the service and the setup, creating a relaxed backdrop for tried-and-true classics. My last lunch here felt unrushed—a rare treat in a buffet.
**What sets Hubert Buffet apart is its commitment to consistency and fresh ingredients.** The well-spiced mixed vegetable platter and roasted potatoes remind me of home, but with a little extra polish. These dishes are always hot, bright, and flavorful.
**Try the basil-infused green beans or the saffron rice for something memorable.** Hubert’s shines when it comes to straightforward, wholesome food that keeps regulars coming back.
8. Samba Grill Brazillian Buffet
(516) 750-5762Call
**Samba Grill Brazilian Buffet brings vibrant South American flair to Mineola’s buffet scene.** The colors, aromas, and buzz of conversation pull you in right away. On a quiet weekday, I sampled their hot bar and left with a newfound respect for Brazilian seasoning and balance.
**This buffet stands out for its variety of well-spiced vegetarian and halal-friendly options.** The black bean stew is both hearty and packed with subtle flavor. If you’re after something lighter, their sautéed collard greens offer a welcome pop of color and freshness.
**Don’t miss the yucca fries or the feijoada with plenty of vegetables.** Samba Grill shows how robust flavors and thoughtful recipes can set a buffet apart from the crowd.
9. Fuji Buffet
(516) 823-3338Call
**Fuji Buffet is a sleek spot in Valley Stream where you can always count on variety and freshness.** The layout is wide open, the stations are clearly labeled, and it’s easy to build the buffet plate of your dreams. I wandered in on a busy weekend, and found the sushi bar stocked and colorful, but still managed to grab my favorites before they disappeared.
**What makes Fuji Buffet shine is the consistent quality of dishes like vegetable fried rice and crisp veggie tempura.** The seaweed salad is a bright highlight, and their miso soup is as comforting as you’ll find anywhere.
**Load up on steamed edamame and the sautéed mixed mushrooms.** Fuji’s take on traditional flavors leaves you satisfied without feeling weighed down, which keeps me coming back.
10. East West Buffet
(516) 579-3388Call
**East West Buffet blends Asian and American favorites under one roof in Levittown, making it a go-to for groups with mixed cravings.** On my last visit, the range of options stood out—a rare buffet where everyone in my party found something to enjoy. The flow of guests keeps dishes fresh and the atmosphere lively, but never overwhelming.
**This buffet stands out for dishes that are both classic and carefully prepared.** The vegetable lo mein is light yet filling, while the steamed broccoli holds its color and crunch. Their salad bar, loaded with toppings, invites even picky eaters to pile on greens.
**Don’t leave without trying the sautéed snow peas or the sesame noodles.** East West Buffet balances comfort and variety, making each plate a pleasant surprise.
More Things to Try in Garden City, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of food can I expect at buffets in Garden City, NY?
You’ll find a variety, from Asian and American classics to Indian, Creole, Caribbean, and even Brazilian cuisine. Many buffets offer a good selection of vegetarian and halal-friendly dishes, so it’s easy to find something for every palate.
Are there halal options available at Garden City buffets?
Yes, several buffets in and around Garden City offer halal selections. Always ask the staff to confirm before dining if you have specific dietary needs.
Which buffet is best for vegetarians?
Many buffets in the area feature fresh vegetable, tofu, and salad options. Mint Restaurant, Samba Grill, and East West Buffet stand out for their abundant vegetarian-friendly dishes.
Should I make a reservation, or can I just walk in?
Walk-ins are common at most buffets, especially during lunch hours. However, for larger groups or peak dinner times, a quick call ahead never hurts.
What’s the average price range for buffets here?
Prices usually range from budget-friendly to mid-range, depending on the buffet’s style and offerings. Some locations even offer extra value during lunch hours or on weekdays.
