These North Carolina Buffets Prove Nobody Does Fried Chicken Like The South

When it comes to fried chicken, nothing beats what you’ll find in the South. North Carolina buffets have perfected this crispy, juicy masterpiece over generations, serving up golden-brown pieces that practically melt in your mouth.

I’ve gathered some incredible spots across the state where you can pile your plate high with authentic Southern cooking that’ll make your taste buds sing.

1. K&W Cafeteria

Did you know that K&W has been serving North Carolinians since 1937? Walking through their buffet line feels like stepping into your grandmother’s kitchen, where every dish tells a story. Their fried chicken recipe hasn’t changed in decades, and for good reason.

Each piece comes out perfectly seasoned with a crackling crust that shatters when you bite into it. The meat stays incredibly moist inside, which shows real skill in the kitchen. You’ll find locations scattered throughout the state, making it easy to grab a plate.

What I love most is how they keep prices reasonable while maintaining quality. Their buffet includes over fifty items daily, but honestly, I always go straight for that chicken.

2. Country Kitchen Restaurant

If you’re craving authentic country cooking, this place delivers exactly what you need. Country Kitchen Restaurant operates in several North Carolina towns, bringing farmhouse flavors to hungry diners every single day. Their chicken gets fried fresh throughout service hours.

What makes their version special is the buttermilk marinade they use before breading. This step adds incredible tenderness and a subtle tang that balances the rich, crispy coating beautifully. They serve it piping hot alongside traditional sides like collard greens and mac and cheese.

The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with checkered tablecloths and friendly staff who treat you like family. I recommend arriving early on weekends because the chicken goes fast!

3. Biscuitville Fresh Southern

Though primarily known for breakfast, Biscuitville has expanded their offerings to include lunch buffets at select locations. Their fried chicken stands out because they prepare it using the same care they put into their famous biscuits. Everything gets made from scratch daily.

The chicken pairs wonderfully with their fluffy buttermilk biscuits, creating the ultimate Southern combination. Their breading contains secret spices that give it a distinctive flavor you won’t find elsewhere. It’s lighter than most versions but still incredibly satisfying.

I appreciate how they source ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting North Carolina farmers. The freshness really shines through in every bite you take.

4. Mayflower Seafood Restaurant

Are you surprised to find a seafood restaurant on this list? Mayflower proves they can fry more than just fish and shrimp with their exceptional chicken offerings. Their coastal locations serve up buffets that combine ocean treasures with landlocked favorites.

The chicken here gets the same careful preparation as their famous calabash-style seafood. It features a light, golden crust that doesn’t overpower the meat’s natural flavor. You can enjoy it alongside hushpuppies and coleslaw for a complete Southern experience.

What sets them apart is the variety on their buffet tables. I always struggle to decide between filling up on chicken or trying their seafood specialties. Thankfully, buffet-style means you don’t have to choose!

5. Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q

With over thirty locations across North Carolina, Smithfield’s has become a beloved institution for good reason. Their buffet showcases both barbecue and fried chicken, letting you sample the best of both worlds. The chicken arrives at your table hot and crackling.

They use a pressure-frying method that seals in moisture while creating that signature crunch we all crave. Each piece gets hand-breaded before cooking, ensuring consistent quality across every location. The result tastes homemade, not mass-produced.

I find their sweet tea pairs perfectly with the savory, peppery chicken coating. Their buffet also includes incredible sides like green beans and potato salad. It’s become my go-to spot for introducing visitors to real Carolina cooking.

6. Mama Dip’s Kitchen

Chapel Hill’s legendary Mama Dip’s has been serving soul food since 1976, building a reputation that extends far beyond state lines. The restaurant honors traditional cooking methods passed down through generations. Their fried chicken embodies everything Southern comfort food should be.

It’s prepared using Mama Dip’s original recipe, which includes a blend of seasonings she perfected over decades. The coating stays crispy even after sitting on your plate for a while. Inside, the meat practically falls off the bone with fork-tender perfection.

When you visit, you’re not just getting a meal but experiencing culinary history. I always feel grateful that her family continues sharing these incredible flavors with the world.

7. Keaton’s BBQ & Catering

How does a barbecue joint earn a spot on a fried chicken list? Keaton’s accomplishes this feat by treating their chicken with the same respect they give their smoked meats. Located in Cleveland County, they’ve mastered multiple Southern cooking styles.

Their buffet features chicken that’s been brined overnight before getting its crispy coating. This extra step makes the meat unbelievably juicy and flavorful throughout. The breading contains a hint of cayenne that adds warmth without overwhelming heat.

I love that they change up their buffet offerings daily, keeping things interesting for regular customers. Their hospitality makes every visit feel special, whether you’re dining in or getting takeout. It’s true Carolina cooking at its finest.

8. Dillard’s Bar-B-Q

Durham’s Dillard’s has been a local favorite since opening its doors decades ago. Their buffet combines barbecue excellence with outstanding fried chicken that deserves equal attention. The family-owned atmosphere makes every meal feel like a homecoming.

Their chicken gets seasoned simply, letting the quality of the meat shine through. The frying technique creates an even, light golden crust that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. You’ll taste the difference that comes from using fresh, never-frozen poultry.

When I’m there, I always grab extra napkins because the juiciness can get messy in the best possible way. Their banana pudding makes an excellent dessert pairing. It’s authentic Durham dining that hasn’t changed with passing trends.

9. Luella’s Bar-B-Que

Asheville’s Luella’s brings an elevated approach to traditional Southern cooking without losing its soul. Their buffet-style Sunday brunch includes fried chicken that’s become legendary among locals. The mountain setting adds charm to your dining experience.

They use organic, locally-raised chicken whenever possible, which affects both flavor and texture noticeably. The breading incorporates creative touches like smoked paprika and garlic powder for depth. It’s familiar yet sophisticated at the same time.

I love how they balance innovation with tradition, respecting the classics while adding their own spin. The restaurant’s atmosphere feels upscale but still welcoming and comfortable. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself right.

10. Stamey’s Barbecue

Since 1930, Stamey’s has been serving Greensboro residents food that defines Piedmont-style cooking. Their fried chicken complements their famous barbecue perfectly on the buffet line. Walking in feels like traveling back to simpler times.

The chicken preparation follows an old family recipe that hasn’t needed updating in nearly a century. It features a thin, crackling crust that lets you taste the chicken’s natural flavor. They fry in cast-iron skillets, which many believe makes all the difference.

What strikes me most is how they’ve maintained quality while other places have cut corners. Their commitment to tradition shows in every crispy, delicious bite. It’s living history you can actually taste and enjoy.

11. Prissy Polly’s Bar-B-Q Pig-Out

With a name like Pig-Out, you know they encourage hearty appetites at Prissy Polly’s. Located in Kernersville, this spot offers a buffet that includes surprisingly excellent fried chicken. The casual, fun atmosphere makes it great for families with kids.

Their chicken gets double-dipped in buttermilk and seasoned flour, creating an extra-thick coating. This technique results in maximum crunch with every bite you take. The meat inside stays moist thanks to careful temperature control during frying.

I appreciate their sense of humor and down-home hospitality that makes everyone feel welcome. Their buffet pricing remains reasonable despite including generous portions. It’s honest food served by people who genuinely care about your experience.

12. Lexington Barbecue

Known locally as Honey Monk’s, Lexington Barbecue represents everything great about North Carolina food culture. Their buffet showcases both their world-famous barbecue and underrated fried chicken. The no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus squarely on the food.

They prepare their chicken using methods that haven’t changed since opening in 1962. The breading stays light and crispy, never soggy or overly thick. Each piece gets fried perfectly, with dark meat that’s fall-apart tender and white meat that stays juicy.

When I visit, I always order their red slaw alongside the chicken for that authentic Lexington experience. The portions are generous without being wasteful. It’s straightforward, delicious cooking that needs no gimmicks or trends.

13. Sagebrush Steakhouse

It might seem unusual to find fried chicken at a steakhouse, but Sagebrush understands that variety matters. Their weekend buffets include surprisingly excellent fried chicken that rivals dedicated chicken restaurants. The rustic Western atmosphere adds fun to your dining experience.

They prepare their chicken with a peppery, herb-infused breading that complements their steak-focused menu perfectly. Each piece gets fried to order during peak hours, ensuring maximum freshness. The meat stays tender while the outside achieves that satisfying crunch.

I appreciate how they offer both white and dark meat options on the buffet line. Their sides lean toward hearty comfort food like mashed potatoes and cornbread. It’s a great choice for groups with varying preferences.

14. Golden Corral

Golden Corral locations throughout North Carolina serve thousands of fried chicken pieces daily, and they’ve perfected their system. Their buffet offers both original and spicy versions, giving you choices based on your mood. Everything stays fresh thanks to constant replenishment.

What makes their chicken noteworthy is the consistency you’ll find across different locations. The breading achieves a beautiful golden color and stays crispy even under heat lamps. They use quality chicken that doesn’t taste frozen or processed.

I find their all-you-can-eat format perfect for families and big appetites. You can pile your plate high without worrying about the bill climbing too high. Their chocolate fountain dessert station makes a sweet ending to your chicken feast.

15. Abele’s Restaurant

Salisbury’s Abele’s has been a community gathering place for generations of families. Their buffet feels like attending a church potluck, with homestyle dishes prepared from scratch daily. The fried chicken here tastes exactly like what your grandmother would make.

They use a simple flour-based coating seasoned with salt, pepper, and love. Nothing fancy, just perfectly executed traditional cooking. The chicken gets fried in small batches throughout the day, ensuring freshness for every customer.

I find their approach refreshing in a world of overly complicated recipes and fusion experiments. Sometimes you just want honest, delicious food made by people who care. Abele’s delivers that experience with every visit, keeping traditions alive for future generations to enjoy.