Looking for the best buffets in New Orleans can feel like searching for a hidden courtyard. The city is full of flavor, but finding a spot that serves up endless variety on one plate is a different kind of adventure. Whether you want something homey, global, or unexpected, the buffet scene here keeps things interesting. It isn’t just about how much you can eat, but about the moments and bites you’ll remember.
I’ve wandered through the city’s dining rooms, from charming bakeries with overflowing pastry platters to vibrant lunch rooms where the aroma of spiced rice lingers. I know that expectations are high: you want quality, value, and a setting that feels like New Orleans. My picks for the best buffets aren’t just lists—they’re places I’d point out to a friend visiting town for the first time. Get ready to explore places where the choices are plenty and the food never feels rushed. Curious yet? Each buffet has a personality, and you’ll soon see why.
Where to find the best buffets in New Orleans, LA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in New Orleans, LA:
- La Madeleine
- Nirvana Indian Cuisine
- Laurel Street Bakery
- Audubon Clubhouse By Dickie Brennan & Co.
- Zaras Lil’ Giant Supermarket & Po-boys
- Joe’s Italian Bistro Nola
- Applegold Buffet
- 8 Block Kitchen & Bar
- Grounded Coffee Cafe
- Chopsticks Buffet
1. La Madeleine
La Madeleine sits quietly on South Carrollton, but don’t let the rustic exterior fool you. The buffet here feels like stepping into a Parisian morning, right in New Orleans. Elegant displays of pastries and fresh fruit make for a light, inviting spread. The salad bar is crisp and satisfying, ideal for anyone after a fresh start to the day.
One of my favorite moments at La Madeleine came from a warm bowl of their classic tomato basil soup paired with crusty bread—a pairing that proves simplicity is timeless. Their signature quiche, filled with herbs and cheese, also deserves a spot on your plate.
La Madeleine’s buffet is perfect for a cozy breakfast or an easy-going brunch, where every plate feels thoughtfully made and never rushed.
2. Nirvana Indian Cuisine
Nirvana Indian Cuisine sits along Magazine Street and enjoys a long-standing reputation for bringing authentic flavors to New Orleans. The dining room feels like a meditative retreat, dotted with vibrant art that hints at the colorful dishes waiting at the buffet.
My last visit brought the comfort of fragrant basmati rice mingled with creamy palak paneer and spiced lentils. The lunch buffet is generous, with a rotation of vegetarian curries and aromatic vegetable biryani that highlight classic Indian cooking. Naan arrives warm and fluffy, perfect for scooping up complex sauces.
If you’re new, try the chana masala—its deep flavor and satisfying spice shine on the buffet. Nirvana’s buffet is proof that tradition and variety can share one plate.
3. Laurel Street Bakery
Laurel Street Bakery feels like that neighborhood secret everyone wishes they’d discovered first. Stepping inside, the aroma of fresh bread and warm pastries pulls you toward the inviting buffet. Every item is made from scratch, and you can taste the care in each bite.
On weekends, I love filling a plate with cheese danishes and hand-rolled bagels. The bagels, soft yet chewy, pair perfectly with house-made cream cheese. The buffet also offers a rotating lineup of sweet and savory muffins—ideal when you can’t decide between a treat or a meal.
If you spot their banana bread, grab it. Laurel Street Bakery’s buffet is a favorite for its local charm and genuine, satisfying flavors—where quality outshines quantity every time.
4. Audubon Clubhouse By Dickie Brennan & Co.
Audubon Clubhouse By Dickie Brennan & Co. brings elegance to the New Orleans buffet scene without any fuss. Nestled in Audubon Park, the wide veranda and sunlit dining room feel like a peaceful escape from city life. The relaxed atmosphere and welcoming service make it easy to settle in for a leisurely meal.
On my visits, the brunch buffet stands out for its balance of Southern classics and lighter options. Be sure to try the seasonal vegetable hash and the creamy grits. The grits, rich and silky, are a true crowd-pleaser. For something sweet, their homemade breads and fresh fruit platters are always beautifully presented.
Audubon Clubhouse offers a buffet where local ingredients and classic recipes meet, making every plate a gentle nod to New Orleans comfort.
5. Zaras Lil’ Giant Supermarket & Po-boys
Zara’s Lil’ Giant Supermarket & Po-boys feels like a neighborhood tradition that never gets old. The deli counter doubles as a lively buffet, brimming with local favorites and wholesome options you’d expect from a well-loved corner market. There’s a laid-back charm to picking your lunch in a place where regulars call staff by name.
The vegetable po-boy, a standout, packs in crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes on just-baked bread. Buffet trays tempt with zesty pasta salads and freshly made potato salad, a rare find in quick-service settings. Their daily soups—especially the vegetable and lentil options—offer a warm, satisfying bite perfect for a midday break.
Zara’s is proof that a supermarket buffet can deliver genuine flavor and friendly hospitality, all under one roof.
6. Joe’s Italian Bistro Nola
Joe’s Italian Bistro Nola serves up Sicilian flavors with plenty of warmth in downtown New Orleans. This buffet stands apart for its family-style approach and robust Italian classics that make you want to linger just a little longer. The space is comfortable, casual, and feels worlds away from the bustle outside.
Every visit, I find myself drawn to the pasta station—try the penne with tomato-basil sauce and the hearty vegetable lasagna. Both are rich, flavorful, and remind me of a homemade meal in a friend’s kitchen. Their buffet always features a rotation of roasted vegetables, crisp salads, and crusty ciabatta, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Joe’s offers a taste of old-world comfort, reimagined for New Orleans appetites.
7. Applegold Buffet
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Applegold Buffet, tucked away on Chef Menteur Highway, offers a no-frills approach that’s all about variety and value. The dining room is spacious, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner when you want room to stretch out and choose at your own pace. There’s a sense of comfort in knowing you can return to the buffet line for another serving whenever you like.
I found their vegetable stir-fries and steamed rice to be reliable staples—always hot, always fresh. Salad options let you build a plate to your liking, and the array of seasonal fruit offers a sweet finish.
Applegold stands out for its wide selection and unfussy charm, making it an easy choice for groups or anyone just craving something familiar and filling.
8. 8 Block Kitchen & Bar
8 Block Kitchen & Bar sits inside the Hyatt Regency and has a modern atmosphere that matches downtown New Orleans’ energy. The buffet here focuses on seasonal, regional fare styled in a sleek, urban setting. Each visit feels a little different, with dishes that nod to New Orleans tradition but never feel predictable.
The roasted vegetable medleys and build-your-own salad bar always hit the mark. During brunch, I’m tempted by cheese grits and sautéed greens, a satisfying blend of Southern comfort and freshness. Their dessert station provides just enough sweet finish to balance out a hearty meal.
8 Block stands out as a polished buffet for travelers and locals alike, delivering New Orleans flavors with contemporary flair.
9. Grounded Coffee Cafe
Grounded Coffee Cafe offers more than just a caffeine fix. This cozy spot feels like a neighborhood living room, where guests drift between tables stacked with baked goods and breakfast bites. It’s a casual buffet, but the food says “made with care” in every detail.
I’m a regular for the breakfast buffet featuring veggie omelets and crispy hash browns, which taste like they were made at home, only better. The house blend coffee pairs well with their fresh fruit and warm pastries—ideal for slow mornings or a midday pause.
Grounded Coffee Cafe stands out for its friendly vibe and quality breakfast buffet, making it a must-visit for anyone craving comfort in a cup and on a plate.
10. Chopsticks Buffet
Chopsticks Buffet, located in Gretna, gives you a taste of Asian comfort food with plenty of variety. The dining area is spacious and lively, always drawing a crowd of regulars and families. It’s easy to see why: the buffet features countless options that cater to every appetite, without losing sight of freshness.
Each visit, I pile my plate high with stir-fried vegetables, crispy spring rolls, and steamed dumplings. The sautéed greens are crisp and full of flavor, and the fried rice always delivers the right balance of texture and taste. Clear soups, brimming with tofu and vegetables, are a light and soothing choice.
Chopsticks Buffet stands out for its balance of variety and value, making it a popular spot for anyone craving Asian classics done right.
More Things to Try in New Orleans, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cuisine can I find at buffets in New Orleans?
Buffets in New Orleans cover a wide range—from Southern comfort food and Cajun favorites to Italian, Indian, and Asian dishes. You’ll also find spots with bakery-style brunches and vegetarian-friendly options.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options at New Orleans buffets?
Yes, many local buffets—like Nirvana Indian Cuisine and Grounded Coffee Cafe—offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Always check with the staff for specific offerings.
Can I find halal or alcohol-free buffets in New Orleans?
While some buffets are more likely to offer halal and alcohol-free selections, it’s best to call ahead or check menus online to ensure your needs are met.
Do buffets in New Orleans serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
Absolutely. Some buffets, such as Laurel Street Bakery and 8 Block Kitchen & Bar, focus on breakfast and brunch, while others offer lunch and dinner spreads packed with variety.
Is it a good idea to make reservations for buffets in New Orleans?
While walk-ins are welcome at most buffets, you might want to book ahead for popular brunch spots or large groups, especially on weekends or during festival seasons.
Are kids’ prices or family discounts available?
Most buffets offer reduced rates for children and might have family-friendly packages, so it’s worth checking before you go.
How do I know if a buffet avoids haram items?
Look for buffets that clearly mark their dishes and ask staff for details. Vegetarian-focused buffets are a reliable option if you wish to strictly avoid haram items in New Orleans.