ApexLife

11 Underrated Buffet Items You Must Try on Your Next Visit

There's a treasure trove of underrated buffet delights waiting to tantalize your taste buds! Discover the surprises hidden in your favorite buffet chains.

Golden Corral's Fried Chicken: A Surprisingly Good Experience

When you think of Golden Corral buffet items, fried chicken might not be the first thing that pops into your mind. However, this all-you-can-eat buffet offers a light, crispy fried chicken that has a hint of black pepper. The breading is perfectly crispy without overwhelming the tender meat underneath. It may not be the fanciest fried chicken you've ever had, but at buffet standards, it's delightfully tender and savory. If you find yourself at Golden Corral, don’t skip this surprisingly delicious fried chicken!

Refresh with Fogo de Chão's Watermelon Feta Salad

A trip to Fogo de Chão wouldn't be complete without enjoying their legendary salad bar. Amidst the array of meat, don't miss the watermelon feta salad. This vibrant dish provides a refreshing contrast to meat-heavy offerings, with juicy watermelon and creamy feta harmonizing beautifully. It’s the ideal palate cleanser, especially after indulging in hearty steak varieties. A touch of salt enhances the flavors, making this salad a must-try!

Sweet Delight at Pizza Ranch: Cactus Bread

When visiting a buffet like Pizza Ranch, which is renowned for its cheesy savory pizzas, save room for the cactus bread. This delicious dessert features buttered pizza dough generously topped with sugar and cinnamon. The pièce de résistance is the cream cheese icing, which elevates this treat to the next level, creating a sweet experience you won’t want to miss. It’s a standout dessert that will keep you coming back for more!

Cici's Pizza Mac and Cheese Pizza: The Best of Both Worlds

Combining two favorite comfort foods, Cici's Pizza offers an iconic mac and cheese pizza on its buffet that deserves a spotlight. This dish features a garlic butter-brushed crust topped with a cheesy layer of macaroni and cheese. The garlic enhances the flavors, while the crispy pasta adds a delightful texture. It’s truly a feast for both pizza and pasta lovers alike.

Golden Corral's Pork with Gravy: Deliciously Underrated

At Golden Corral, don’t overlook the pork with gravy. This hearty dish might not get as much attention as other options, but the juicy pork drenched in savory gravy is a true hidden gem. Perfect for diversifying your plate away from the usual chicken, this comforting meal is bound to satisfy. Experience the tender meat and flavorsome gravy the next time you visit!

Ponderosa Steakhouse Ham Cubes: A Hidden Snack

Ponderosa Steakhouse may be known for its T-bone steaks, but it’s the ham cubes at the salad bar that truly surprise patrons. Thickly cut from quality deli meat, these flavorful cubes add a unique texture and taste when incorporated into a fresh salad. They can also stand alone as a savory snack, making them an unconventional yet satisfying choice for buffet-goers.

Fogo de Chão's Farofa: A Traditional Brazilian Side

Don’t just focus on the meat during your visit to Fogo de Chão; make sure to try the farofa, a Brazilian side made from cooked yuca flour with added bits of bacon or sausage. This staple side dish brings a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor profile of your meats and veggies, creating a fulfilling Brazilian dining experience. It’s a flavorful companion that everyone should try!

The Savory Buffalo Chicken Pizza at Cici's

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Buffalo chicken pizza at Cici's Pizza. Featuring a sauce-drizzled base and juicy chicken on a garlic butter crust, this dish offers a flavorful twist that you won’t often find on traditional buffet menus. The balance of tanginess and heat ensures every slice is packed with personality. Don’t shy away from this unique pizza option!

Golden Corral's Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Classic

Simplicity meets satisfaction with Golden Corral's mac and cheese. Although it lacks a crispy topping, this dish delivers on creamy and cheesy flavors, making it a perfect comfort food option. Ideal for kids and adults alike, its velvety sauce alongside al dente pasta creates an enjoyable experience that’s hard to resist, especially after a buffet feast.

Sizzler's Double Malibu Chicken: A Must-Try

Among the lesser-known but exciting offerings at Sizzler is the Double Malibu chicken. This dish pairs breaded chicken with slices of ham topped with melted cheese, creating a combination that satisfies every protein lover. Enjoy this decadent meal, which is both tasty and filling!

Fogo de Chão's Pão de Queijo: Indulge in Cheesy Goodness

Before you finish your meal at Fogo de Chão, be sure to grab some pão de queijo. This delicious cheese bread made of manioc flour is a delightful addition to any plate, perfect for soaking up extra juices from your meats. With a chewy texture and cheesy flavor, this bread is an essential part of your buffet experience that you won’t want to skip.

Exploring the underrated items at popular buffet chains lets you uncover extraordinary tastes that often go unnoticed. Don't hesitate to step out of your culinary comfort zone and try these delightful dishes on your next buffet adventure.

ALL ARTICLES