People Drive Across Georgia Just For These Buffet Favorites

Georgia has some of the most amazing buffets you’ll ever experience, and people are willing to drive for hours just to get a taste. From fried chicken piled high to sweet tea that never runs out, these all-you-can-eat spots have become legendary across the state.

Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food or fresh seafood, I’m going to show you the buffet favorites that keep Georgians coming back for more.

1. Golden Corral’s Endless Fried Chicken

Nothing beats walking up to a buffet line and seeing mountains of crispy, golden fried chicken waiting for you. Golden Corral locations across Georgia have perfected their recipe, making it a top reason families plan road trips. The crunchy coating stays perfect even under those heat lamps, and the meat inside is always juicy.

I love that you can grab as many pieces as you want without anyone judging your plate. The seasoning blend hits just right with a little kick of pepper and garlic. Kids go wild for the drumsticks while adults pile on the breasts and thighs.

Many locations offer both original and spicy versions so everyone leaves happy and full.

2. Fresh Seafood at Captain D’s Buffet

Coastal flavors meet inland convenience at Captain D’s buffet locations throughout Georgia. Fried shrimp, battered fish, and those addictive hush puppies create a seafood lover’s paradise without the beach trip. The fish stays flaky and tender, never greasy or overcooked like some places.

You’ll find yourself going back for seconds of the crispy butterfly shrimp every single time. The coleslaw and fries make perfect sides to balance out all that delicious seafood. I appreciate how they keep everything fresh and hot throughout lunch and dinner hours.

Tartar sauce and cocktail sauce stations let you customize every bite exactly how you like it.

3. Mrs. Winner’s Country Fried Steak

This Southern classic brings people from neighboring counties just to taste that peppery white gravy. Mrs. Winner’s serves up country fried steak that’s been tenderized to perfection and breaded with a secret blend of seasonings. Each piece gets smothered in creamy gravy that makes your taste buds dance.

The meat is never tough or chewy, which can be a problem at other buffets. I always grab a piece early before the lunch rush because it’s that popular. Pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans for the ultimate comfort meal.

Regular customers know to visit on Sundays when they make extra batches for the after-church crowd.

4. Piccadilly’s Carrot Soufflé

Who knew carrots could taste like dessert? Piccadilly Cafeteria has created a legendary side dish that has folks driving across state lines. This sweet, fluffy creation combines carrots with sugar, eggs, and butter to make something truly magical. The texture falls somewhere between a casserole and a cloud.

Kids who normally refuse vegetables will ask for seconds of this orange goodness. I’ve watched grown adults fill their entire plate with just carrot soufflé and nothing else. The recipe has stayed consistent for decades, which keeps loyal fans returning.

Some people even request the recipe, though the restaurant keeps it closely guarded.

5. Shoney’s Breakfast Bar

Early birds flock to Shoney’s for what many consider the best breakfast buffet in the South. Fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, country ham, and buttermilk biscuits create the foundation of a champion breakfast. The sausage gravy is thick and loaded with actual sausage pieces, not just flavoring.

I appreciate the fresh fruit section that helps balance out all the hearty breakfast meats. Pancakes and French toast get made throughout the morning to ensure freshness. The hash browns come out perfectly crispy on the edges and soft in the middle.

Coffee flows freely, and servers keep your cup filled without you even asking.

6. Folks Southern Kitchen Fried Okra

Okra haters become okra lovers after one bite of this perfectly fried Southern vegetable. Folks Southern Kitchen coats each piece in a crunchy cornmeal batter that eliminates any sliminess. The small, bite-sized pieces make it easy to snack on while you’re deciding what else to pile on your plate.

I’ve seen people fill entire to-go containers with just fried okra because it’s that addictive. The seasoning includes a hint of cayenne that adds warmth without overpowering heat. They fry it fresh in small batches to maintain that satisfying crunch.

Dipping it in ranch dressing takes the experience to a whole new level of deliciousness.

7. Sizzler’s Salad Bar

Salad bars often disappoint, but Sizzler’s version stands out as a destination worth the drive. Fresh lettuce varieties, crisp vegetables, and an impressive array of toppings let you build the salad of your dreams. The ingredients get restocked constantly, so everything stays cold and crispy.

I’m impressed by the variety of dressings available, from classic ranch to tangy vinaigrettes. Sunflower seeds, croutons, bacon bits, and shredded cheeses add endless customization options. The pasta salads and potato salads on the side provide heartier alternatives.

Even people who claim to hate salads find something they enjoy at this legendary buffet station.

8. Cici’s Pizza Buffet Variety

Pizza lovers rejoice because Cici’s offers more varieties than you can eat in one visit. From classic pepperoni to unique creations like macaroni and cheese pizza, there’s something for every taste preference. The pizzas come out of the oven continuously, ensuring you always have access to hot, fresh slices.

I appreciate how you can request specific pizzas if you don’t see your favorite on the buffet. The cinnamon rolls and dessert pizzas provide a sweet ending to your meal. Kids eat free on certain nights, making it budget-friendly for families.

The salad bar and pasta options round out the experience for non-pizza eaters in your group.

9. Western Sizzlin’s Ribeye Steak

Steak at a buffet sounds risky, but Western Sizzlin proves it can be done right. Their ribeye comes out juicy and flavorful, cooked to a perfect medium that satisfies most diners. The marbling throughout the meat ensures every bite stays tender and delicious.

You can grab multiple pieces to find your ideal thickness and doneness level. I’m always surprised by how well the quality holds up compared to traditional steakhouses. The seasoning is simple but effective, letting the natural beef flavor shine through.

Pair it with their loaded baked potatoes and Texas toast for a meal that rivals expensive restaurants at buffet prices.

10. Quincy’s Yeast Rolls

Warm, buttery, and absolutely addictive, these yeast rolls have people planning trips around Quincy’s buffet hours. The rolls come out fresh every fifteen minutes, so you can always grab one straight from the oven. They’re soft and pillowy on the inside with a slightly golden crust on the outside.

I’ve watched people eat half a dozen before their main course even arrives. The honey butter served alongside takes them from great to unforgettable. Some folks come just for the rolls and salad bar, skipping the entrees entirely.

The recipe has remained unchanged for years, maintaining the consistency that keeps customers loyal and coming back weekly.

11. Ponderosa’s Chicken Wings

Buffalo wings at a steakhouse buffet might seem unusual, but Ponderosa has mastered this crowd-pleasing appetizer. The wings stay crispy despite being on the buffet line, and the sauce has the perfect balance of heat and tang. Both drumettes and flats are available, so you can pick your preferred piece.

I love that they offer mild, medium, and hot versions to accommodate different spice tolerances. The blue cheese dressing and celery sticks provide cooling relief between bites. Unlike sports bars where wings can be expensive, here you can eat as many as you want.

Wing lovers often make this their entire meal, stacking plates high with these saucy treasures.