Buffets are a bit like treasure hunts, but with fewer maps and more mashed potatoes. St Joseph, MO has quietly built a reputation for buffet-style dining. Whether you want a classic all-American spread, a steaming plate from the Far East, or a pizza that keeps on coming, there’s something in town for every craving. When I first set out to find the best buffets in St Joseph, I didn’t expect to discover such variety—or to leave with so many takeout boxes in the car.
Over time, I’ve dodged the bland and the overpriced, searching for those gems where the selection is generous and the flavors actually live up to the hype. This list comes from many visits, lots of second helpings, and more refills than I should admit. If you’re ready to skip the guesswork and eat your way through the city, keep reading. Each spot here offers a buffet experience worth the extra plate.
1. Golden Corral Restaurants
Golden Corral in St Joseph is the kind of place where you can walk in hungry and leave full of gratitude. It’s known for its endless buffet lineups, so no one leaves disappointed or fighting over the last roll. I’ve found that their fresh salad bar and hearty mashed potatoes rarely miss the mark, and their soft dinner rolls are too easy to go back for.
What sets Golden Corral apart is its ability to cater to families and picky eaters alike. The rotisserie chicken is always juicy, and the vegetable selections show they care about more than just the main course.
For buffet beginners, don’t skip the baked fish or seasonal veggies—they reflect Golden Corral’s commitment to wholesome, satisfying meals. Come hungry and ready to sample.
2. The New Chinese Buffet
(816) 233-8898Call
The New Chinese Buffet sits at the crossroads of comfort and variety on Belt Highway. Walking in, you’re met with the aroma of fresh stir-fries and savory sauces—a sign you’re not in for a bland meal. My visits always turn into a mini tour through China, sampling multiple flavors with each plate.
What makes The New Chinese Buffet stand out is how well they keep their dishes rotating and hot. The vegetable lo mein and sautéed green beans are stars of the lineup; neither sit long enough to lose their snap. If you spot the egg drop soup, be sure to ladle up a bowl.
Try the steamed dumplings and pepper chicken for a fresh taste that never disappoints. It’s a buffet that manages to feel both generous and attentive.
3. Pizza Ranch
Pizza Ranch in St Joseph is where cravings for pizza and comfort food meet a generous buffet. On my last visit, it felt like the pizza just kept coming out fresh from the oven, and there’s nothing like a slice with the cheese still bubbling. The casual, upbeat vibe makes lingering with friends or family easy.
What sets Pizza Ranch apart is how they honor requests for your favorite pizza style; just ask, and the kitchen brings it to the buffet. Their crispy fried chicken rivals the pizza, and I rarely skip it. The mashed potatoes and gravy are a must if you want a full classic Midwest experience.
Cactus Bread, a sweet dessert pizza, is a local legend that seals the deal. This is buffet dining that feels like a treat, meal after meal.
4. Gambino’s Pizza
Gambino’s Pizza may sit just outside St Joseph, but its buffet deserves a spot on any local list. From the moment you step in, the smell of baking crust and melted cheese is enough to make your stomach growl. This is a spot where families gather, swapping stories over plates stacked high with slices.
What distinguishes Gambino’s is the variety of pizza styles always on offer. Their classic pepperoni and veggie pizzas are popular, but don’t miss the option to customize a pie just for you. Every visit, I make time for their baked pastas as well—always rich, saucy, and comforting.
The fresh salad bar balances out the heavier dishes, and the dessert pizzas are a clever way to end. For buffet fans, Gambino’s feels like a satisfying, local tradition.
5. Chinese Chef
Just a short drive from St Joseph, Chinese Chef in Cameron is the kind of buffet that proves small-town spots can punch above their weight. The moment you arrive, the warm aromas of sizzling stir-fries and steamed rice hint you’re in the right place. Every visit, I’m greeted by cheerful staff and plates ready for loading up.
Chinese Chef stands out for its commitment to fresh, rotating selections throughout the day. I’m partial to their crispy fried rice and flavorful vegetable dishes; both show a balance of flavor and care. The hot and sour soup is always exactly how it should be—bold and comforting.
For those venturing out of St Joseph for a buffet, their sautéed noodles and seasonal vegetables are worth the trip. This buffet keeps things simple, generous, and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular buffet restaurants in St Joseph, MO?
Golden Corral, Pizza Ranch, The New Chinese Buffet, and Gambino’s Pizza are local favorites, each offering a wide array of choices for lunch or dinner.
Are there any buffets in St Joseph, MO that offer vegetarian options?
Yes, most buffets—including Golden Corral and The New Chinese Buffet—feature fresh salads, vegetable stir-fries, and other meatless dishes as part of their regular selection.
Can you request custom items at the buffets?
At Pizza Ranch, you can ask for a specific pizza flavor to be made fresh and brought out to the buffet. For most others, you can speak with staff if you have dietary needs or preferences.
Are buffets in St Joseph, MO family-friendly?
Absolutely. Locations like Golden Corral and Pizza Ranch welcome diners of all ages and offer seating and menu items suitable for families and groups.