Buffet hunting in Sunnyvale is a bit like cracking open a treasure chest—each discovery is bursting with flavor, personality, and surprises. Whether you’re craving an endless parade of curries, smoky barbecued delights, or a world tour on one plate, Sunnyvale manages to deliver without fuss or frills. So, why settle for a one-dish wonder when the entire table can become your playground?
My own forays into Sunnyvale’s buffet scene have left me both full and fascinated. From platters heaped with crisp dosa to tables glowing under the shimmer of Turkish grills, each stop tells a different culinary story. If you’re after value, variety, and a chance to eat with abandon (while avoiding haram), you’re in exactly the right place—let’s explore the top spots where every meal feels a little bit limitless.
1. Sneha South & North Indian Cuisine
Sneha South & North Indian Cuisine draws a devoted crowd for a reason. Right off Apollo Way, this buffet is a celebration of India’s diversity—one side offering fragrant South Indian classics, the other filled with comforting North Indian staples. Walking in, the aroma alone hooks you.
The spread never disappoints, with dishes like fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and aromatic biryanis making frequent appearances. The best part? Their buffet maintains serious quality, not just quantity. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve gone back for their flavorful sambar and creamy paneer curries—they hit just the right note every time.
If you’re looking to taste the regions of India without leaving Sunnyvale, Sneha transforms the simple act of dining into an exploration. Go heavy on the rotis and vegetable korma—you won’t regret it.
2. Mangal Turkish Bbq
Mangal Turkish Bbq offers a buffet that’s a true escape from the everyday lunch routine. Tucked on Ross Drive, this spot feels warm and lively, always buzzing with the friendly energy of friends sharing a meal. My first plate here was a revelation—every bite hinted at the group of food lovers who started it all.
What sets Mangal apart is the unmistakable freshness. Their grill section delivers smoky, tender vegetables and perfectly spiced chicken (halal, of course). The mezze options, from bright salads to silky hummus, add color and texture you don’t find everywhere.
I always go straight for their eggplant dishes and lentil soup. Both showcase the kitchen’s knack for bold yet balanced flavors, capturing Turkish comfort in every serving. If you want to linger over authentic tastes, Mangal’s buffet is a smart bet in Sunnyvale.
3. Grand Indian Buffet
(408) 481-0700Call
Walk through the doors of Grand Indian Buffet and you’ll step into a lineup of vibrant flavors that never feel monotonous. Set on Apollo Way, this buffet is where groups and solo diners both find themselves well-fed and well-cared for. My last stop here turned lunch into a full-on tasting tour of classic Indian comfort food, right in Sunnyvale’s East Murphy neighborhood.
The draw? The range and reliability. Dishes like chana masala, paneer tikka, and a rotating curry selection keep the buffet lively. They even toss in pizza for a fun twist, but the Indian side outshines the rest. Each batch is hot, fresh, and thoughtfully seasoned.
For a real taste of house style, don’t miss the tandoori vegetables and dal makhani. These crowd-pleasers reflect Grand Indian Buffet’s emphasis on hearty, familiar flavors built with care. Ideal when you want variety without sacrificing authenticity.
4. Old Country Buffet
(408) 720-9394Call
Old Country Buffet is the sort of place that makes you feel like Sunday dinner came early. Located on W Maude Ave, it leans into comfort with its family-style approach. My memories here are all about generous scoops of warm, classic dishes and the hum of families enjoying themselves.
The focus is on hearty American staples: think mashed potatoes, green beans, and macaroni and cheese held to a steady, satisfying standard. Their salad bar brings crisp vegetables and tangy dressings, inviting you to start with something light before tucking in to the main event.
If you’re looking for something filling yet unfussy, the cornbread and roasted vegetables are always reliable. Old Country Buffet stands out for making down-home flavors easy to enjoy, any day of the week.
5. Inchin’s Bamboo Garden
Inchin’s Bamboo Garden is where Chinese and pan-Asian dishes meet for an unexpected buffet experience right in downtown Sunnyvale. Every visit here feels a little like a field trip into bold flavors and fresh ideas. The décor is modern yet cozy, setting the stage for leisurely sampling.
The buffet’s big draw? Dishes that balance crisp textures with rich, savory sauces. I’m partial to their stir-fried noodles and vegetable manchurian—hearty, satisfying, and always piping hot. Their selection offers just enough variety to keep you lingering for a second or third plate.
Start with their sesame green beans or a bowl of hot and sour soup. These show off the kitchen’s touch: everything is bright, well-seasoned, and refreshingly light compared to heavier options. Inchin’s Bamboo Garden creates an easy, upbeat way to explore Asian cuisine buffet-style.
6. Sankranti
Sankranti is a hidden gem for those who love Indian buffets with homestyle touches. Located on S Wolfe Rd, this cozy spot draws regulars for its approachable yet impressive lineup of dishes—many reminiscent of a classic festival spread. My first plate here felt like a full journey through regional specialties, each dish thoughtfully prepared.
The buffet isn’t about endless trays—it’s about depth and comfort. I always return for the vegetable pulao and sambar, both brimming with subtle spice and freshness. You’ll often find comforting daals alongside crisp appetizers, which pair perfectly for those leisurely lunches.
If you want something hearty, try their paneer curry. Sankranti’s knack for simple, soulful flavors makes it stand out in Sunnyvale’s buffet lineup, especially for those seeking a homestyle Indian meal.
7. Milpitas Buffet
Milpitas Buffet draws crowds with its sheer variety and energetic feel, making it well worth the short trip from Sunnyvale. Located in the Milpitas Shopping Center, this buffet is the definition of abundance, offering everything from spring rolls to hearty vegetable stir-fries. My first visit here felt like walking through a festival of flavors with something new to try at every turn.
What sets Milpitas Buffet apart is its blend of American comfort food and Asian classics. The noodle station is always a highlight, churning out bowls packed with fresh veggies and slurp-worthy sauces. Their steam tables rarely disappoint, kept stocked and inviting.
If you want something light but flavorful, go for the Asian-style sautéed greens or their mixed vegetable fried rice. There’s always a surprise on the buffet line, making each visit fresh and interesting.
8. Super Buffet
(408) 985-2968Call
Super Buffet on Stevens Creek Blvd is best described as the go-to spot when you want a little bit of everything, and then some. Its spacious setting and wide selection make tackling your cravings easy—perfect for a group with varied tastes. My visits often turn into small culinary adventures, thanks to all the freshly refilled choices.
The buffet line here is reliably well-stocked, with highlights like stir-fried mixed vegetables and steamed dumplings. Super Buffet manages to keep both the quality and the variety high, whether you come for lunch or a more leisurely dinner.
The noodle dishes and crispy spring rolls are always safe bets, offering bold flavors that never feel too heavy. If you’re near Sunnyvale and want a truly unlimited experience, Super Buffet is tough to beat.
9. El Camino Mongolian BBQ
El Camino Mongolian BBQ delivers the interactive buffet experience: you build your own bowl, and the chefs bring it to life right in front of you. Nestled on El Camino Real, this spot is popular with both families and anyone craving customization. My first visit here felt like culinary DIY—picking ingredients and sauces for a meal that’s as personalized as it gets.
The draw lies in the array of crisp vegetables, fresh noodles, and flavorful sauces lined up for endless combinations. Watching the grill masters work their magic is half the fun, and the results are always hot and satisfying.
To make the most of your meal, pile your bowl with broccoli, mushrooms, and snap peas, then add a sweet-savory sauce of your choice. El Camino Mongolian BBQ’s hands-on approach guarantees you’ll never have the same plate twice.
10. Tatami Buffet
(408) 996-3444Call
Tatami Buffet in Cupertino deserves praise for its clean, expansive setup and the variety it packs into every service. Conveniently located near Vallco Park South, this buffet is a favorite when I want a relaxed meal that covers both familiar and new flavors. My outings here always include at least one “second round”—their spread encourages you to take your time and graze.
What stands out is the balance of Asian-inspired hot dishes and quality vegetable options. Steamed greens, noodles, and vibrant salads fill every plate, making it easy to eat well without feeling weighed down.
Try the stir-fried bok choy and their veggie sushi, both of which showcase fresh ingredients and simple execution. Tatami Buffet is ideal for variety-seekers and those wanting clear, stress-free choices in Sunnyvale’s orbit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best vegetarian-friendly buffets in Sunnyvale?
Sneha South & North Indian Cuisine, Sankranti, and Inchin’s Bamboo Garden all offer strong vegetarian spreads, featuring hearty curries, vegetable stir-fries, and a variety of sides.
Are there any buffets in Sunnyvale serving halal options?
Mangal Turkish BBQ is popular for its halal-certified, freshly grilled meats and mezze. Many Indian buffets such as Sneha focus on a wide range of vegetarian dishes, ensuring guests have halal-friendly choices.
Can I find Asian buffet options in the area?
Yes, Tatami Buffet, Inchin’s Bamboo Garden, and Super Buffet all serve a robust selection of Asian-inspired dishes, from noodles to veggie sushi and savory stir-fries.
Do buffets in Sunnyvale offer options for people with dietary restrictions?
Most buffets highlight vegetarian dishes, gluten-free selections, and lighter fare. If you have specific allergies or needs, calling ahead is always smart to confirm what’s available.
Which buffet is best for large groups or families?
Old Country Buffet and Milpitas Buffet are known for their spacious setups, crowd-pleasing menus, and plenty of room for bigger gatherings.
Is it necessary to make a reservation at Sunnyvale buffets?
While walk-ins are common, making a reservation is wise for larger parties or peak meal times, especially on weekends.