Buffets offer the promise of endless options, but it’s easy to walk away feeling overstuffed and overwhelmed if you don’t go in with a plan. Whether you’re dining at a national chain like Golden Corral or a local hometown favorite, knowing how to navigate the buffet line can help you enjoy more of what you love—without the regret that often follows.
Here’s how to get the most out of your buffet experience, both in flavor and value.
Start With A Walk-Through
Before picking up a plate, take a quick stroll down the line. This allows you to see all available options and prioritize the items you really want. It’s easy to fill up on bread or pasta early, only to find out the carving station or dessert bar is around the corner.
Build A Balanced First Plate
Start with a mix of proteins, vegetables, and a small portion of carbs. A balanced first round sets the tone for your meal and helps prevent the “I already blew my diet” spiral that leads to overeating. At buffets like Golden Corral, this might mean grilled chicken, green beans, and roasted potatoes instead of jumping straight to fried options and mac & cheese.
Use Smaller Portions To Sample More
Buffets are about variety, so don’t overload your plate on your first pass. Taking smaller portions gives you room to sample different dishes across multiple rounds. It also helps you avoid food waste, especially if you’re not sure you’ll enjoy something.
Hydrate Between Rounds
Drinking water between plates slows down your pace and helps your body register fullness. It also aids digestion and reduces the chance of leaving the buffet feeling bloated.
Save Sweets For Last—But Don’t Skip Them
Many buffets offer surprisingly great desserts, from warm bread pudding to fruit cobbler and soft-serve ice cream. Ending with something sweet provides closure to the meal and keeps you from continuously grazing. At Shoney’s, for instance, their dessert bar is a highlight worth saving room for.
Take Advantage Of Cashback And Rewards Apps
If you’re paying out of pocket, why not earn something back? Apps like Ibotta occasionally offer cashback when you submit receipts from restaurants. If you’re ordering online from a buffet chain, Rakuten may also offer cashback through select platforms.
Better yet, stack your savings by using a gift card purchased through a cashback platform like Fluz. You can instantly buy gift cards for places like Golden Corral or Shoney’s and earn cashback at the time of payment.
Know When To Stop
Just because it’s unlimited doesn’t mean you need to try everything. Eat slowly, listen to your body, and stop when you’re satisfied—not stuffed. Leaving a buffet feeling comfortably full is always better than rolling out the door in discomfort.
With a little strategy, buffets can be both indulgent and balanced. By making mindful choices and using simple saving tools, you can get more out of every visit—on the plate and in your wallet.
