Chasing down the best buffets in Panama City Beach is almost a sport. With every visit, I’m greeted by mountains of fried shrimp, glistening salad bars, and the unmistakable hum of vacationers plotting their second (and third) plate. I once walked into a seafood buffet here after a long day spent basking in the Florida sun. The cool blast of air, aroma of garlic butter, and cheerful clatter of plates set the tone for what might be the most satisfying way to refuel. If you look past the glitzy souvenir shops, you’ll find a buffet scene that’s both surprisingly diverse and consistently packed with locals.
Whether your cravings swing toward hearty southern comfort, fresh sushi, or something with a spicy twist, the spread in Panama City Beach doesn’t disappoint. This guide slices through the confusion and gives you a close look at spots that have earned their reputation. You’ll find a mix of old names and hidden gems—each with their own flavor and crowd. If your appetite is as big as your curiosity, keep reading.
Where to find the best buffets in Panama City Beach, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best buffets in Panama City Beach, FL:
- Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet – Thomas Drive
- The Wharf Seafood Restaurant
- All American Diner
- Guru’s Pizza 786 (Indian-Italian Cuisine)
- Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet – Front Beach
- Jin Jin Super King
- Jin Jin Chinese Buffet
- CiCi’s Pizza
- Golden Corral Restaurants
- No. 1 Asian Buffet
1. Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet – Thomas Drive
Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet – Thomas Drive has real staying power. Locals have trusted Jack Bishop and his team for decades, and you feel that warmth when you walk in. The spread can be intense: crisp fried shrimp, tender carved meats, heaps of vegetables, and showstopper crab legs. You’ll see families cracking into mound after mound of those sweet, juicy crab legs—a specialty that draws people back night after night.
On my last visit, I watched a team member crack open a steaming pile of crab legs for a child who looked absolutely starstruck. The buffet is generous, but it’s the service that keeps things lively. The crab legs are a must—fresh, hot, and refilled without delay. If you prefer a little variety, the pasta and sides show that comfort food never goes out of style.
2. The Wharf Seafood Restaurant
The Wharf Seafood Restaurant offers a buffet that draws seafood lovers from every corner of Panama City Beach. Nautical décor, lakeside seating, and a lively buzz tell you right away this is no ordinary buffet line. Here, the all-you-can-eat feast includes everything from endless snow crab legs to filet mignon and shrimp—so there’s something for every appetite.
I once timed my visit to catch the sunset on the boardwalk, which pairs perfectly with a heaping plate of snow crab legs and shrimp. The quality is consistent, and the service is attentive. Young families as well as seasoned buffet pros seem to make repeat appearances.
If you’re hungry for variety, the pasta bar and fresh salad station add even more value. For a standout meal, start with the crab legs, then add a slice of filet for a truly well-rounded buffet experience.
3. All American Diner
All American Diner brings a classic touch to Panama City Beach’s buffet scene. It’s the spot for those who crave familiar flavors and hospitality that feels genuine. The retro booths and endless coffee refills catch your attention, but it’s the generous breakfast buffet that wins hearts, especially after an early morning by the sand.
On a recent rainy morning, I filled my plate with perfectly scrambled eggs, grits, crispy hash browns, and fluffy pancakes. The buffet covers all the breakfast favorites you’d hope for, with fresh offerings coming out hot and steady—ideal for groups or solo travelers looking for a laid-back start.
The pancakes and hash browns are top choices for a reason: comforting, filling, and always fresh. The All American Diner keeps its focus on the basics and delivers every time.
4. Guru’s Pizza 786 (Indian-Italian Cuisine)
Guru’s Pizza 786 brings an exciting twist to Panama City Beach buffets with its unique Indian-Italian fusion. The cozy spot holds surprises at every turn. You’ll catch the aroma of spices and baking dough even before you step inside. On my last visit, families swapped slices of thin-crust veggie pizza for bold bites of paneer tikka, laughing as they discovered new favorites.
The buffet is all about exploration. Layer your plate with crispy veggie pizza, creamy pasta, and a generous helping of perfectly spiced wings. The balance between classic Italian comfort and savory Indian flavors is smart and satisfying.
If you crave something memorable, try the tikka pizza—a signature dish that sums up Guru’s creative vibe. This is the place for those who want more than the usual, and it doesn’t disappoint.
5. Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet – Front Beach
Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet – Front Beach is where the beachside feast takes center stage. The buffet room is lively, with families debating between one last plate or a slow stroll to the shore outside. The real show here is the endless supply of luxurious all-you-can-eat crab legs, stacked high and cracked open with grins all around.
The first time I visited, my table looked out over the Gulf, and the combination of sea views and freshly steamed seafood was unbeatable. The crab legs are the undisputed highlight, tender and sweet, served up hot and generous. For those who want more variety, sides like roasted veggies and creamy pasta round out a full buffet plate.
Service is quick, and the whole atmosphere feels set for celebration. If you’re a seafood lover in Panama City Beach, this spot belongs on your itinerary.
6. Jin Jin Super King
Jin Jin Super King brings fresh flavors and variety to the buffet circuit in Panama City Beach. This spot draws a mix of families, lunch crowds, and regulars keen on Chinese and Japanese favorites. The price is gentle on your wallet, yet the choices stretch far beyond basic staples.
What always stands out for me here is the vibrant selection—from bright stir-fried veggies to made-to-order sushi rolls. The buffet feels like a parade of colorful, hot, and fresh dishes. The sushi station is a crowd favorite, with rolls crafted in small batches to keep things crisp and flavorful.
If you’re looking for something dependable and satisfying, start with the veggie stir-fry and the assorted sushi. Jin Jin Super King is a reliable stop for real variety and friendly service.
7. Jin Jin Chinese Buffet
(850) 234-2015Call
Jin Jin Chinese Buffet is the kind of place where you can count on fresh, straightforward flavors and a relaxed setting. Popular with both locals and visitors, it offers a well-stocked spread without any fuss. The value here is clear—affordable pricing with plenty of choices that rotate to keep things interesting.
My go-to move is to hit the hot bar for crisp veggies, fried rice, and their savory lo mein. The highlight is how each dish remains hot and well-seasoned, even when the place gets busy. The dishes on offer give you dependable comfort with just enough variety to keep you coming back.
For a satisfying meal, pile your plate with fresh vegetable stir-fry, lo mein, and fried rice. Jin Jin Chinese Buffet is a smart stop for an unfussy and reliably tasty buffet meal in Panama City Beach.
8. CiCi’s Pizza
CiCi’s Pizza is a steady favorite for anyone who believes pizza should be its own food group. The casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere makes it a magnet for families and groups fresh off the beach. Rows of pizzas in every style greet you, along with a salad bar and pasta options for a bit of variety.
Every visit kicks off with a sweep of the buffet line. I keep returning for the veggie and classic cheese pizzas—fresh, crisp, and never shy with the flavors. The buffet-style means you can sample everything without commitment, perfect for picky eaters or those whose appetites cover the pizza spectrum.
If you want to stretch your meal, mix in garlic knots and a heap of salad. CiCi’s is pizza done easy, done right, every time.
9. Golden Corral Restaurants
Golden Corral Restaurants is a mainstay that promises true buffet variety. Its atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, drawing a steady stream of regulars alongside vacationers. The buffet shines with classic American comfort fare—everything from carved meats to salad, potatoes, and sides that taste like they came from a family table.
On recent visits, I’ve seen families celebrating birthdays, plates stacked high with steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, and endless salad combinations. The highlight here is the ability to build a meal exactly how you want it, whether you’re in the mood for light sides or a “one of everything” feast.
The hot bar stays well-stocked and fresh. Don’t skip the grilled veggies and the baked potato bar—they showcase quality and flexibility that sets Golden Corral apart.
10. No. 1 Asian Buffet
(850) 769-0002Call
No. 1 Asian Buffet is a haven for buffet-goers who appreciate variety with a fresh twist. The interior is full of cheerful chatter and the promise of a culinary adventure across Asia. What sets this spot apart is its strong lineup of Japanese and Asian dishes prepared with care and served in generous portions.
One visit opened my eyes to how satisfying a buffet sushi bar can be—rolls are made fresh, and the flavors pop. The miso soup and veggie stir-fry are excellent starters that highlight attention to freshness and taste. Dishes keep coming out hot, which is reason enough to linger a little longer.
If you want to cover a lot of culinary ground in one meal, try building a plate with sushi, sautéed veggies, and fried rice. No. 1 Asian Buffet makes it easy to enjoy something new with every visit.
More Things to Try in Panama City Beach, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular types of buffets in Panama City Beach?
Seafood buffets are the stars, with crab legs and shrimp leading the way. You’ll also find American classics, Asian cuisine, and even pizza buffets, all ready to please a range of tastes.
Do buffets in Panama City Beach offer options for vegetarians?
Yes, most buffets include a variety of salads, veggies, fruit, pasta, and bread. Asian and pizza buffets usually have several vegetarian-friendly dishes worth trying.
Are there buffets suitable for families with kids?
Absolutely. Many buffets in the area are family-friendly, offering highchairs, kids’ pricing, and classic comfort foods that appeal to younger diners.
Can I find seafood buffets that serve crab legs in Panama City Beach?
Yes. Crab legs are a hallmark of Panama City Beach buffets, especially at favorites like Capt. Jack’s and The Wharf Seafood Restaurant.
Are there affordable buffet options in Panama City Beach?
Several buffets, including Jin Jin Super King and CiCi’s Pizza, offer great value with plenty of choices, so you don’t need to splurge to leave full.
Is advance booking needed for popular buffets?
During peak season, it’s wise to call ahead or arrive early, as spots at the busiest seafood buffets can fill up fast.