When it comes to dining out, few experiences are as indulgent as a good buffet. It’s important to distinguish between buffets and All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) dining. While both offer unlimited food for a set price, AYCE usually involves ordering multiple rounds of food that are brought to your table, as is often seen in sushi restaurants. Buffets, on the other hand, offer a self-serve experience where guests can explore a wide variety of dishes laid out, and often include stations with chefs preparing food on the spot. With that distinction in mind, let’s dive into the top ten buffets in Kitchener/Waterloo!
Golf’s Steakhouse and Seafood
Located in Kitchener, Golf’s Steakhouse and Seafood offers a delicious Sunday brunch buffet that is known for its wide variety. From hand-carved meats such as Prime Rib and Old Fashioned Ham to BBQ Beef Ribs and Roast Ontario Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh fish and the salad bar, complete with Iced Baby Shrimp. The 16-foot dessert table alone is worth the visit, packed with cakes, mousses, pies, and more. Prices are $39.95 for adults and $19.95 for children aged 12 and under. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular spot.
Rade’s Restaurant
A hidden gem for lovers of Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine, Rade’s Restaurant in Kitchener offers a Saturday buffet that is both flavorful and unique. Beyond traditional dishes like injera and hearty stews, you’ll also find Italian influences like pizza and pasta, thanks to the owner’s background in Italian restaurants. This buffet is ideal for those looking to explore new flavors and cultures in a comfortable setting.
Spice of India
For authentic Indian cuisine, Spice of India’s buffet is a must-visit. Available from Thursday to Sunday, the buffet offers a rich variety of dishes made with farm-fresh ingredients and authentic Indian spices. With a focus on health-conscious choices, you’ll find colorful salads, soups, and vegetarian options alongside delicious curries and tandoori items. Spice of India aims to provide a creative dining experience where fresh flavors take center stage.
The Friendly Society
Located just outside of Kitchener/Waterloo in Elora, The Friendly Society is a trendy spot known for its lively atmosphere and scenic riverside setting. Their Sunday brunch buffet is a local favorite, offering a range of classic comfort foods made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The buffet, paired with live music during the summer, makes this a delightful weekend destination. Whether you’re after pancakes or a cocktail on the patio, The Friendly Society has you covered.
Foundry Tavern
At Foundry Tavern in Cambridge, brunch gets an innovative twist with a tavern-style buffet. For $40, you can enjoy unlimited access to their grazing stations featuring smoothies, fruits, hummus, and a wing bar, alongside cured meats, olives, and fresh salads. The highlight is that you also get to order one elevated breakfast dish like fried chicken and waffles or smoked salmon on a bagel. It’s a great choice for those who want both a buffet experience and a freshly made-to-order meal. The ambiance is relaxed, perfect for casual Sunday mornings.
Madras Chettinaad
One of the newest additions to the Kitchener buffet scene, Madras Chettinaad opened to great fanfare and has quickly become a popular spot. Offering both North and South Indian dishes, their buffet is a delightful journey through the diverse culinary regions of India. Priced at $21.99 during the week and $24.99 on weekends, this buffet features over 15 dishes during the week and more than 25 on weekends. For a satisfying meal packed with flavor, Madras Chettinaad is an exciting new destination in the region.
Aqua Lounge & Restaurant
Situated in downtown Kitchener inside the Crowne Plaza, Aqua Lounge & Restaurant offers a lavish breakfast buffet every morning. Their spread includes everything from fresh pastries and fruits to made-to-order omelets and gourmet coffee. The casual, upbeat atmosphere and the central location make Aqua Lounge an ideal choice for hotel guests and locals alike. Whether you’re there to start your day or enjoy a mid-morning feast, the variety and quality won’t disappoint.
Shishalicious Cafe & Resto
For a unique dining experience, Shishalicious Cafe & Resto offers a Halal buffet every Saturday afternoon. Their spread includes dishes from both Eastern and Western cuisines, making it a diverse and delicious offering. Priced at $34.99 per person, the buffet features a selection of meats, fresh salads, and regional specialties. This cozy spot in Kitchener is perfect for those looking to enjoy a relaxed, casual dining atmosphere with a touch of international flair.
Royal Indian Buffet and Sweets
Known for its high-quality Indian cuisine, Royal Indian Buffet and Sweets in Cambridge specializes in North Indian dishes. With an extensive menu featuring Tandoori and Punjabi-style curries, this buffet is a feast for spice lovers. Chef Gurinder takes pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create standout dishes like paneer tikka, beef curry, and lahori fish pakora. Open every day of the week, this buffet is perfect for anyone craving bold, authentic Indian flavors.
Cambridge Mill
For an elevated buffet experience, Cambridge Mill’s Sunday Brunch is one of the most luxurious offerings in the region. Priced at $75 for adults and $36 for children, the buffet features an impressive raw bar with freshly shucked oysters, alongside classic brunch favorites and a dynamic carving station. What sets this buffet apart is that beverages are included in the price, a rarity in most buffets. Cambridge Mill’s beautiful setting on the Grand River adds to the experience, making it perfect for a special occasion.
These top buffet spots across Kitchener/Waterloo cater to a variety of tastes, from traditional North American comfort food to international cuisines. Whether you’re planning a special brunch or a casual outing with friends, these buffets offer plenty of delicious options to explore. Please let us know if we missed your favourite!
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