Buffets are often associated with roast beef carving stations, fried chicken, and barbecue ribs. But if you know where to look, even the most meat-heavy buffet lines offer satisfying options for vegetarians. Whether you’re meat-free by lifestyle or just craving something lighter, there’s more to enjoy than plain salad and a dinner roll.
Here’s how to build a flavorful, filling, and entirely vegetarian plate at some of America’s most popular buffet restaurants.
Where To Look Beyond The Meat
Many buffet chains and hometown diners include a surprisingly wide selection of vegetable-based and plant-forward dishes—especially in the South, where vegetable sides are as much a part of the culture as the mains. While not always labeled vegetarian, many of these dishes are meat-free or can be with minor adjustments.
Golden Corral’s Veggie Selection
At Golden Corral, vegetarians can choose from a rotating lineup of items like steamed broccoli, baked potatoes, corn, green beans (ask if cooked without meat), and pasta primavera. The salad bar is expansive, with toppings like chickpeas, shredded cheese, sunflower seeds, and hard-boiled eggs. For hot bar items, mac and cheese, yeast rolls, and sweet potato casserole are filling favorites.
Shoney’s Fresh Food Bar
Shoney’s often includes vegetable soup, sautéed squash, rice, and Southern-style stewed tomatoes on their buffet line. Their breakfast buffet also offers oatmeal, grits, fresh fruit, and hash browns. Ask staff about preparation methods—some veggies may be cooked in bacon fat or with meat stock.
Souper Salad’s Full Veg Focus
For a more vegetarian-centric buffet, Souper Salad is a great option. Their entire concept revolves around soups, salads, baked potatoes, pastas, and breads—most of which are meatless. This is one of the most consistent national options for vegetarians looking for buffet variety without compromise.
Tips For Navigating The Buffet As A Vegetarian
– Ask how items are prepared. Sides like green beans or collards may contain ham or bacon by default. Don’t assume—they often have meatless versions available.
– Start at the salad bar. This is usually the safest zone for vegetarians and offers more than just greens. Think legumes, nuts, cheeses, and pasta salads.
– Build from starches and sides. Cornbread, mashed potatoes (without gravy), and baked sweet potatoes can be hearty enough when combined with vegetables or a protein substitute like eggs or beans.
Vegetarian Comfort Dishes To Look For
– Macaroni and cheese
– Fried okra
– Sweet potato casserole
– Creamed spinach
– Corn pudding
– Fresh fruit and cottage cheese
– Vegetable soup or lentil soup (verify ingredients)
For additional vegetarian dining tips and buffet-friendly recipes, check out the Vegetarian Resource Group, which offers guides and meal planning tools.
Buffets may be built for abundance, but that doesn’t mean vegetarians are left behind. With a little guidance and curiosity, there’s plenty to pile on your plate—even without the meat.
