Buffets in Greenville, SC don’t blend into the background. They show up piled high with personality, a generous dash of local charm, and more options than your second cousin’s wedding spread. Greenville’s buffet scene is a world tour, tucked into strip malls and family dining halls—whether you crave smoky barbecue, tangy Southern staples, or the gentle heat of Asian seasonings. The real trick lies in hunting down spots that are actually worth your time and appetite.
As someone who has spent a few grand afternoons stacking plates a little higher than I’d admit, I know that a great buffet isn’t just about quantity. It’s about walking out the door satisfied—without feeling like you just survived a food obstacle course. This guide rounds up the local favorites, hidden gems, and classic crowd-pleasers that make Greenville’s buffets better than your average salad bar. If you’re curious about where to find the most memorable spreads, keep reading.
Where to find the best buffets in Greenville, SC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in Greenville, SC:
- Cateran’s Buffet Restaurant
- Golden Corral Restaurants
- Green Tomato Buffet
- Ryan’s
- Chiefs Wings & Firewater
- CiCi’s Pizza
- Wade Hampton Country Buffett
- Epic Buffet of Simpsonville Inc
- HomeTown Buffet
- Hiabachi Grill
1. Cateran’s Buffet Restaurant
(864) 271-6233Call
Cateran’s Buffet Restaurant sits at the edge of North Main, doing comfort food with both tradition and a bit of flair. The atmosphere has a casual ease—think big booths, smiling staff, and that unmistakable aroma of home-cooked favorites. There’s a steady crowd of locals who know to show up hungry, so you’re in good company.
The star attraction is the rotating buffet spread, where Southern classics dominate the lineup. On my last visit, the fried chicken was impossibly crisp, and the macaroni and cheese disappeared fast for good reason. Their collard greens and baked potatoes hold their own, rich and filling.
This is a spot where you’ll want to grab a plate of their stewed vegetables and slow-cooked beef tips. The regulars swear by the peach cobbler for dessert—a sweet ending that feels unmistakably Greenville.
2. Golden Corral Restaurants
Golden Corral has mastered the art of the buffet lineup. You’ll walk in to find endless options, cafeteria-style charm, and a pace set by families and regulars who know the best schedules for fresh rolls. This Greenville location serves up reliable comfort at a price point just a notch above average, making it a go-to for groups and solo diners alike.
I’ve spent more than a few Sunday lunches here, making a beeline for the grill station where the chefs carve up juicy, tender steak. The salad bar helps even things out, with fresh ingredients and homemade dressings. Side dishes like baked potatoes and seasoned veggies stack up well, no matter what you pair them with.
For a true showcase of Golden Corral’s style, assemble a plate that mixes the grilled chicken, steaming corn, and their famed yeast rolls. Don’t skip their dessert bar—plenty of homemade-tasting pies and soft-serve made to finish the meal on a sweet note.
3. Green Tomato Buffet
Green Tomato Buffet on Woodruff Road is where Southern comfort food finds its most welcoming stage. The buffet is always stocked with soulful classics, hearty sides, and slow-roasted selections that invite guests back for seconds and thirds. If you’re aiming for a meal that tastes homemade and comforting, this is your spot.
I’ve lingered over the steam tables here longer than I probably should admit, especially when the fried catfish and candied yams make their appearance. The fried okra is crunchy perfection, and the collard greens taste like they simmered all afternoon.
For the true Green Tomato experience, heap your plate with cornbread, pinto beans, and their creamy mac and cheese. It’s comfort you can count on and a bite of Greenville’s homestyle heart.
4. Ryan’s
Ryan’s brings a sense of nostalgia to Greenville’s buffet scene. Known for its classic American selections and family-friendly warmth, it’s a longtime local favorite. The dining room has the kind of familiarity that draws groups who want conversation over crowd-pleasing plates.
What makes Ryan’s stand out is the carving station and the salad bar—both kept well-stocked and impressively fresh. I recall plenty of family outings here, where the grill masters carved tender roast beef just right every time I queued up. Sides like mashed potatoes and buttered corn disappear quickly but are always replenished.
If you go, make a beeline for their fluffy rolls and hand-breaded fried chicken. Paired with classic veggies and a helping of macaroni, you have a meal that’s simple, comforting, and thoroughly satisfying.
5. Chiefs Wings & Firewater
Chiefs Wings & Firewater puts a flavorful spin on the buffet, focusing on bold American comfort food and wings that pack a punch. The space buzzes with an upbeat energy—sports on the screens, friends sharing plates, and a buffet that covers all the bases for hearty appetites. You won’t find fussy or formal here, just plate after plate of satisfying eats.
I always end up circling back for seconds at the wing bar. The dry-rubbed and sauced options give a variety of flavors, with just enough spice to keep things interesting. Their barbecue offerings and side dishes like golden fries or baked beans round out the plate.
Order the wings in the signature mild or garlic-parmesan flavors paired with fresh veggie sticks and house-made ranch. It’s lively, casual, and perfect for anyone looking for the buffet experience with a bit of extra kick.
6. CiCi’s Pizza
CiCi’s Pizza on Haywood Road is where pizza fans gather for endless variety and a casual, self-serve experience. If you’re in the mood for a crowd-pleasing meal that leaves no carb behind, this buffet is a Greenville favorite for families, kids, and anyone who wants to try every slice in the lineup. There’s a friendly energy in the air, with fresh pies coming out of the oven all day long.
I’ve spent leisurely afternoons testing the pizza combinations here, and there’s always a new flavor to discover. The classic cheese and veggie pizzas are always winners. There’s also a dedicated pasta corner and a build-your-own salad bar for those wanting to round out their plate.
Go for the thin crust spinach pizza, pile on a plate of zesty marinara pasta, and save room for soft cinnamon rolls for dessert. It’s simple, satisfying, and keeps you coming back for another plate.
7. Wade Hampton Country Buffett
(864) 244-1883Call
Wade Hampton Country Buffett is the type of place where comfort takes center stage and regulars feel right at home. The draw here is Southern-inspired buffet fare served in an unfussy, welcoming setting. Staff treats you like you’ve been coming for years, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
I’ve always found the mashed potatoes impossibly creamy and the seasoned greens packed with flavor. The fried chicken is another highlight—crispy outside, tender inside, and perfect with a side of baked beans. The buffet offers classic choices, but it’s the home-cooked feel that sets it apart from bigger chains.
Make sure to help yourself to their cornbread and creamy mac and cheese. For dessert, berry cobbler is often the sweet note that keeps guests lingering for just one more bite.
8. Epic Buffet of Simpsonville Inc
Epic Buffet of Simpsonville Inc isn’t defined by its modest price tag—it’s all about value and variety. This is a go-to spot for those looking to fill their plates without emptying their wallets. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it great for both families and solo diners.
I’ve enjoyed lunches here where the buffet offered a lively mix of homestyle staples. The fresh vegetable selections and classic casseroles tend to draw a crowd. Fried and baked chicken options keep both the crunchy and tender fans happy.
For the full Epic Buffet experience, sample their seasoned greens, cornbread, and golden potato wedges. It’s a filling, no-fuss kind of meal that reflects the area’s love for unpretentious comfort food.
9. HomeTown Buffet
(864) 476-5128Call
HomeTown Buffet on Main Street in Woodruff delivers the classic buffet experience with a comforting, small-town twist. Locals gather here for the kind of meal that feels like Sunday dinner, any day of the week. The setting is simple, but the atmosphere is all about warmth and familiarity.
I’ve stopped by for weekend lunches, always greeted by tempting aromas and an ever-rotating spread of American favorites. The mashed potatoes are creamy, the roast chicken is tender, and there’s a generous salad bar for lighter plates.
If you want a true taste of HomeTown Buffet, go for their savory meatloaf, seasoned green beans, and cornbread muffins. No frills, just solid, satisfying comfort that keeps guests returning and plates piled high.
10. Hiabachi Grill
(864) 224-8898Call
Hiabachi Grill on Clemson Blvd brings the flair of Asian buffets to Anderson, with a buffet line that always seems freshly stocked and endlessly diverse. This spot balances crowd-pleasers and intriguing new flavors, so you can assemble a plate that’s as adventurous or as classic as you like. The visuals alone—a rainbow of dishes, sizzling at the hibachi station—set this place apart.
I find myself returning for the stir-fried noodles and veggie-packed spring rolls. Each station delivers something different, from mild steamed dumplings to bold ginger-glazed chicken, making it easy to mix and match every visit.
To sample Hiabachi Grill at its best, choose their sautéed mushrooms, fresh steamed broccoli, and custom hibachi selections. The experience is all about variety, freshness, and plenty of flavor to go around.
More Things to Try in Greenville, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in Greenville, SC?
Many locals recommend Cateran’s Buffet, Green Tomato Buffet, and Golden Corral for comfort food. If you want a little variety, Chiefs Wings & Firewater stands out for wings, while Hiabachi Grill and Jade House Asian Buffet cover Asian-inspired selections.
Are there buffets in Greenville that offer vegetarian-friendly options?
Yes, most buffets in Greenville have plenty of vegetarian options. Green Tomato Buffet is known for its fresh veggies and classic sides, and Hiabachi Grill offers a wide selection of vegetable stir-fries and salads.
Do any Greenville buffets have gluten-free choices?
While most buffets don’t label dishes specifically, you can usually find simple grilled proteins, veggies, salad bars, and fruit. Always ask staff for details on ingredients.
Which buffets in Greenville are kid-friendly?
Golden Corral, CiCi’s Pizza, and HomeTown Buffet regularly attract families. These offer simple, tasty dishes and desserts kids love, plus casual, welcoming settings.
Is it necessary to make a reservation at Greenville buffets?
Usually, no reservation is needed. However, for larger groups or on weekends, it’s smart to call ahead and check available times, especially during dinner rush.