Buffets in Virginia Beach aren’t just about quantity; they’re a celebration of variety and, at their best, a true showcase for local flavor. I remember strolling along the oceanfront, chasing that perfect seaside meal, and stumbling onto a buffet that changed my idea of “all you can eat” from rote repetition to real discovery. At many of these spots, you can sample everything from savory Southern classics to innovative global fare, all without worrying if your next plate will leave you disappointed.
This guide highlights the best buffets in Virginia Beach, VA that offer something for every appetite. Each spot was selected for its atmosphere, selection, and consistency—not just who piles food the highest. Whether you want elegant seafood, prime rib with a view, or a hint of international flair, your next meal could turn into a mini adventure. Dive in below.
1. Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill
+1 757-228-3111
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Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill delivers vintage charm with a nod to the glitz of the Roaring Twenties. It’s rare to find a spot where history and casual comfort blend so seamlessly. My last visit involved a lazy breakfast, sunlight streaming in, and a buffet spread that felt more curated than chaotic.
Their buffet lineup includes classic American and seaside selections, balancing old favorites and some inventive twists. I found myself going back for the smoked salmon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and their homemade seasoned potatoes—each bite full of flavor and clearly prepared with care.
If you’re searching for a Virginia Beach buffet that’s more than just a meal, Arbuckle’s will keep you coming back. Try anything from the breakfast buffet and don’t miss their local produce—it’s fresh, satisfying, and a step above the ordinary.
2. Swan Terrace Restaurant
+1 757-366-5777
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Swan Terrace Restaurant offers the kind of buffet that feels like a step back into an elegant era, without sacrificing warmth or comfort. Set inside The Founders Inn, it’s surrounded by gardens and old-world charm—a soothing backdrop for any meal. I once lingered over Sunday brunch here as the lakeside terrace caught the early sun, listening to laughter echo off the water.
The buffet shines for its focus on locally sourced produce and seasonal seafood. Their breakfast spread is where I fell for the smoked gouda grits and house-made pastries. The salad bar boasts crisp greens next to vibrant fruit, all sourced from Virginia’s best farms.
For the Sunday brunch, try the vegetable hash and fresh seafood dishes. These options reflect Swan Terrace’s attention to both quality and local tradition.
3. Catch 31
The oceanfront at Virginia Beach comes alive at Catch 31, where you can enjoy fresh air, bustling energy, and stunning views alongside a versatile buffet. My last visit blended the sounds of waves and laughter—a lively backdrop for a memorable brunch spread. The contemporary atmosphere feels upmarket, but still relaxed enough for sandy feet and big appetites.
Catch 31’s buffet focuses on fresh, local seafood and inventive sides. I loaded up on grilled vegetables, a colorful medley of salads, and the standout: creamy Chesapeake crab dip spooned over crisp bread. Their omelet station is popular for a reason—the eggs are always fluffy, paired with bright herbs and veggies.
This is the spot for anyone who wants variety with a view. Order plenty of the local seafood dishes; they represent the best of the Atlantic, plated simply and beautifully.
4. Captain George’s Seafood VB
+1 757-428-3494
Captain George’s Seafood VB is a classic for seafood lovers who appreciate both abundance and quality. The place has an easy, nautical charm, and I remember the anticipation of my first buffet plate—each station promising some new ocean treasure. With plenty of space and a lively atmosphere, it turns mealtime into a full experience.
What sets Captain George’s apart is the sheer freshness of its offerings. The buffet highlights steamed vegetables, fresh salads, and an impressive seafood bar. I’m partial to their baked fish and grilled shrimp, both flavorful without being heavy. The seasonal produce always balances the more decadent dishes, creating a well-rounded meal.
Come hungry and start with their seafood line-up—these picks show off the restaurant’s signature style: simple, well-prepared, and always highlighting the day’s best catch.
5. Yukai Japanese Buffet
Yukai Japanese Buffet is a welcome change of pace for anyone craving Asian cuisine with depth and freshness. The modern, zen-inspired atmosphere made my lunch visit feel unrushed, even as I circled the sushi bar in awe. Here, you’ll find precision and artistry on every platter, never just quantity for its own sake.
The highlight is the extensive sushi selection. Each piece is crafted with care, offering bright flavors and the right texture. I also gravitated toward their hibachi grill, where chefs prepare vegetables and tofu to your liking—quick, interactive, and delicious.
Don’t miss their seaweed salad or the miso soup, simple yet flavor-packed. Yukai stands out for its fresh ingredients and the range of choices for every kind of eater.
6. Maracaibo Bistro
Maracaibo Bistro offers a refreshing twist for anyone looking to explore Latin American flavors in a buffet setting. During my last visit, the atmosphere buzzed with lively conversation and the intoxicating aroma of fresh herbs and vegetables wafted from the buffet line.
This spot stands out for its dedication to regional Venezuelan cuisine, with a focus on vibrant salads, handmade arepas, and slow-cooked vegetable stews. I loved sampling the yuca and plantains, which are both filling and brightened by tangy house-made sauces.
If you’re new to the cuisine, start with the vegetable arepas and rice dishes. The variety ensures there’s always something new to savor, and the buffet lets you travel the world one plate at a time.
7. Nawab Indian Cuisine
Nawab Indian Cuisine has a special talent for making classic Indian flavors feel both familiar and exciting, all within a bright and welcoming setting. I remember the delicate fragrance of cardamom and cumin greeting me at the door—the buffet lineup here is thoughtfully arranged and anything but rushed.
This buffet is perfect for exploring vegetarian and vegan Indian dishes alongside a variety of curries, lentil stews, and fragrant rice. The vegetable biryani is a standout, full of spices and accompanied by cool cucumber raita. For a comforting meal, try the dal and mixed vegetable curry, both warming and well-balanced.
If you like bold flavors with a gentle touch, Nawab’s buffet is a delicious introduction to Indian cuisine in Virginia Beach.
8. Fusion Restaurant & Lounge
Fusion Restaurant & Lounge brings a taste of the Eastern Shore to Virginia Beach’s ever-evolving beachfront scene. Situated inside the Sheraton Oceanfront Hotel, it’s where I first encountered a unique blend of Southern hospitality and creative coastal cooking, all set against the rolling surf.
The buffet is loaded with regional favorites and fresh local produce. My morning plate piled up with stone-ground grits, roasted vegetables, and fresh melon—each dish letting local ingredients shine. The warm, comfortable dining room encourages you to linger a little longer, perhaps for a second round of their famous vegetable sauté.
If you’re looking for a buffet with both soul and a sense of place, Fusion offers the best of both worlds right on the boardwalk.
9. Fish Bones Restaurant and Seafood Buffet
Fish Bones Restaurant and Seafood Buffet sits close to the bustle of Atlantic Avenue, serving up a no-frills, ocean-inspired banquet. My first dinner here was a parade of plates—each trip to the buffet brought a new discovery, from crispy vegetables to steaming sweet corn.
The main attraction is the seafood spread, especially the shrimp and oysters, which are fresh, perfectly chilled, and plentiful. For those craving a taste of the coast, their baked fish dishes are light yet full of flavor. The salad selections offer a crisp and refreshing contrast to the main courses.
This spot thrives on generous variety and easygoing comfort. Head straight for the seafood section and round things out with their daily vegetable specials.
10. Ynot Italian – Landstown
Ynot Italian – Landstown brings comfort food and Italian tradition together in a space that’s both inviting and family-friendly. My memories here are built around the buffet’s long tables, filled with fresh salads and stacks of hand-tossed pizza, each made with care and high-quality ingredients.
What really distinguishes Ynot is their focus on authenticity and variety. The salad bar overflows with crisp vegetables and house-made dressings, while the pasta options are always hearty and satisfying. Their vegetable lasagna, layered with ricotta and garden-grown squash, is a must-try for a filling, meatless main.
Don’t miss out on the stone-baked pizzas and their signature garlic knots. Ynot’s buffet captures the pleasures of Italian dining, perfect for sharing and sampling flavors with those you care about most.
More Things to Try in Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best buffets in Virginia Beach for seafood?
Captain George’s Seafood VB, Fish Bones Restaurant and Seafood Buffet, and Catch 31 are favorites for fresh, abundant seafood. Each offers a range of steamed and baked fish, shrimp, and local specialties to please every seafood lover.
Are there any vegetarian-friendly buffets in Virginia Beach?
Yes, several spots—like Nawab Indian Cuisine, Swan Terrace Restaurant, and Ynot Italian – Landstown—feature plenty of plant-based dishes, from salads to cooked vegetable mains and sides.
Where can I find international cuisine buffets in Virginia Beach?
Try Yukai Japanese Buffet for sushi and Asian favorites, Nawab Indian Cuisine for classic Indian dishes, and Maracaibo Bistro for Latin-inspired flavors.
Which buffets offer gluten-free or vegan options?
Most major buffets, including Swan Terrace Restaurant, Ardubble’s Bar & Grill, and Fusion Restaurant & Lounge, offer gluten-free and vegan items, clearly labeled for convenience.
Do I need a reservation for buffets in Virginia Beach?
Reservations are recommended on weekends and holidays, especially for buffets at resorts or popular stops like Captain George’s and Swan Terrace Restaurant.
Are there buffets with a view of the ocean in Virginia Beach?
Yes, Catch 31, Fusion Restaurant & Lounge, and Fish Bones Restaurant and Seafood Buffet offer fantastic ocean views as you dine.
