New York City doesn’t do buffets halfway. Whether you’re a local hunting for your next regular spot or a visitor making every meal count, the city offers a sprawling menu of all-you-can-eat experiences. The variety is astounding: one block you’re trying classic American comfort food, the next sampling Middle Eastern spreads or feasting on Brazilian steak. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by choice, but that’s half the fun—if you know where to look.
I once made the (questionable) decision to sample five NYC buffets in a single day. The memory of a bustling lunchtime at a Manhattan steakhouse still sticks with me—the clatter of plates, the sizzle from the grill, the total food joy. If you want to skip hours of menu stalking and go straight to the best, you’re in luck. This list saves you guesswork, serves only halal-friendly picks, and maps out the city’s standout buffets. Get your appetite ready.
Where to find the best buffets in New York City, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in New York City, NY:
- Whole Foods Market
- Churrascaria Plataforma
- Yard House
- Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
- Empire Steak House
- Amish Market East
- 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
- Wolfgang’s Steakhouse
- Ruby Tuesday
- Hard Rock Cafe
1. Whole Foods Market
+1 212-823-9600
See Menu
Whole Foods Market at Columbus Circle is more than just a grocery store—it’s a haven for anyone who loves variety and quality. The Lower Concourse hot and cold food bars are fresh, vibrant, and always buzzing, offering a generous buffet with bold international flavors and plenty of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Eating here feels like wandering through a global marketplace.
During a recent lunch, I pieced together a meal of falafel, roasted vegetables, and a tangy quinoa salad. The freshness stood out, and everything tasted thoughtfully prepared.
You can build your own plate with Middle Eastern, Asian, and classic American dishes, all in one go. Don’t skip the roasted sweet potatoes or the zesty Mediterranean chickpea salads—they define the best of the Whole Foods buffet style.
2. Churrascaria Plataforma
Churrascaria Plataforma transforms dinner into theater, with skilled servers moving table to table offering endless cuts of grilled halal beef, chicken, and lamb. The rodizio-style service means you control the pace—flip your chip green for more, red for a breather. The excitement never really stops as the scent of sizzling meat fills the lively dining room.
The gourmet salad bar is a highlight, featuring vivid salads and satisfying hot sides. My last visit ended with a plate piled high with grilled vegetables, perfectly seasoned lamb, and surprisingly fluffy rice.
The garlic beef and tender lamb are worth prioritizing for their deep flavor, but don’t overlook the salad bar’s marinated mushrooms and hearts of palm. Churrascaria Plataforma stands out for its festive energy and variety of halal-friendly options.
3. Yard House
Yard House, set on the pulse of Times Square, is where you go for diverse flavors and generous self-serve options. Imagine long communal tables, classic rock in the background, and the steady buzz of food lovers making their own perfect plate from a crowd-pleasing spread.
On my last visit, I constructed a meal with spicy edamame, fresh veggie tacos, and a heaping salad. The options satisfy whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just in the mood for something bold and fresh. The staff never blinked when I asked questions about ingredients, making it easy to dine confidently.
Pile your plate with the truffle fries, Korean chili garlic edamame, and the loaded salads. Each dish reflects Yard House’s casual but high-quality approach. It’s all about making the buffet your own adventure.
4. Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse puts drama on your plate, pairing tableside meat carving with a standout Market Table buffet. The dining room pulses with anticipation as skewers of halal-friendly beef, chicken, and lamb circulate from table to table, cooked over an open flame.
At my last visit, I was drawn in by the fresh offerings at the Market Table—bold salads, roasted vegetables, and a rainbow of composed dishes. Every plate felt like a tailored tasting menu.
Try the marinated beef and the grilled pineapple; they offer contrast and crave-worthiness. The Market Table is a feast in itself, reflecting Fogo’s blend of classic fire-grilled meats and lush, abundant sides—true buffet style, Brazilian edition.
5. Empire Steak House
+1 212-586-9700
See Menu
Empire Steak House blends classic New York style with a robust buffet of steakhouse favorites. The dining room feels both grand and welcoming, ideal for those who want their meal to feel like an occasion. Staff are attentive but relaxed, giving just the right amount of care.
Last time I was here, the salad bar surprised me as much as the grill. Crisp greens, hearty grains, and bright vinaigrettes offered a balance to the main attraction: tender, expertly-seasoned halal-friendly steaks sliced to order.
The sirloin and vegetable medley are standouts. Together, they show Empire’s commitment to freshness and tradition. If you’re seeking a buffet with a focus on steakhouse luxury and genuine quality, this spot is a solid bet.
6. Amish Market East
Amish Market East feels like a secret known to Midtown regulars. Its expansive buffet blends fresh market ingredients with global flavors, all in a welcoming deli atmosphere. Walking in, you’re hit by the scent of roasted vegetables and the sight of artfully displayed salads.
My recent plate was a colorful mix of grilled salmon, couscous salad, and oven-roasted potatoes. Each dish tasted fresh and home-cooked, and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options for variety seekers.
Try the grilled salmon, leafy salads, and homemade soups. These dishes show off Amish Market East’s knack for vibrant, healthy food. It’s buffet-style dining but without any shortcuts on quality or flavor.
7. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar redefines buffet brunch with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop. The tropical plants and glass-enclosed lounge add a splash of elegance, making every meal here feel like a special occasion. The atmosphere buzzes from afternoon through late night, and the vibe is refreshingly relaxed.
The brunch buffet is where this spot shines. Recently, I piled my plate high with avocado toast, fluffy pancakes, and a rainbow of fresh-cut fruit. There are plenty of vegetarian-friendly picks, all prepared with an eye for freshness and flavor.
Avocado toast, roasted breakfast potatoes, and mixed greens salads come highly recommended. 230 Fifth’s style is all about easy luxury and stunning city views, making even a simple buffet feel extraordinary.
8. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse has the feel of an old-school New York institution, but its approach to buffet dining is refreshingly modern. The Midtown location stays energetic, with a buffet focused on prime cuts, vibrant salads, and well-prepared sides that make steakhouse classics accessible to all.
My last visit included a plate of perfectly seasoned vegetables alongside halal-friendly steak carved to order. Each bite reminded me that great steakhouses are built on simplicity and high standards—and Wolfgang’s delivers both every time.
The sirloin, creamed spinach, and roasted potatoes are all must-tries. This buffet is a go-to for anyone who loves quality meats and doesn’t want to skimp on the sides.
9. Ruby Tuesday
Ruby Tuesday brings a comforting slice of Americana right to the heart of Times Square. Their buffet transforms lunch or dinner into a reliable treat, with a well-stocked salad bar and plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. The atmosphere is relaxed, with cozy booths that invite you to linger.
I have a soft spot for their salad bar, which allows you to build a plate as simple or inventive as you like. The crisp greens, tangy dressings, and endless toppings make each trip different from the last.
Go for the salad bar with its roasted veggies, grains, and fresh fruit. It’s a buffet that’s unfussy but never boring. Ruby Tuesday’s mix of classic flavors and flexibility makes it a great NYC buffet option.
10. Hard Rock Cafe
Hard Rock Cafe is more than a restaurant—it’s a slice of music history in the middle of Times Square. The space thrums with classic rock and features a buffet that combines comfort food with crowd-pleasing variety. Every booth comes with a backstage pass vibe, surrounded by legendary memorabilia.
During my last visit, I found myself torn between a loaded salad and their signature mac and cheese, eventually sampling both. The vegetarian options offer plenty of flavor even if you skip the main stage meats.
Build a plate from the salad bar, cheesy sides, and veggie pastas. Hard Rock Cafe’s buffet is approachable, upbeat, and reliably fun—a mix that keeps it a favorite stop for groups and families in NYC.
More Things to Try in New York City, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in New York City for variety?
NYC’s top buffets like Churrascaria Plataforma, Whole Foods Market, and Fogo de Chão offer a wide range of dishes, from global salads to halal-friendly grilled meats and creative vegetarian options.
Are there halal-friendly buffets in New York City?
Yes, several buffets such as Fogo de Chão, Churrascaria Plataforma, and Empire Steak House provide halal-friendly choices. Always double-check with the restaurant about specific ingredients or preparation.
Where can I find vegetarian or vegan buffets in NYC?
Buffets at Whole Foods Market, Amish Market East, and Ruby Tuesday stand out for their variety of vegetarian and vegan picks, including salads, hot sides, and plant-based mains.
Do buffets in NYC require reservations?
For popular spots—especially on weekends or evenings—making a reservation is recommended. Walk-ins are welcome at many places, but a booking saves you from long waits.
What’s the average price for a buffet in NYC?
Prices can range from $15 at casual markets and delis up to $70 or more at high-end steakhouses. Many buffets charge by weight for lunch but offer fixed prices for dinner or brunch.
Which buffet is best for a group or family?
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar and Hard Rock Cafe are both great for groups, thanks to spacious seating and something for everyone at the buffet.
