Maryland Buffets Locals Say Serve Fried Chicken Worth Every Bite

Maryland knows how to do comfort food right. When it comes to fried chicken, locals have their go-to spots where golden, crispy perfection meets all-you-can-eat freedom.

I’ve seen families make entire weekend plans around these buffets, and there’s something special about watching people dig into plates stacked high with fresh, hot chicken.

From Baltimore to Ocean City, buffets across the state serve up fried chicken that keeps folks coming back for seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths.

These restaurants have earned loyal followings for their homestyle cooking, friendly vibes, and menus packed with classics that taste just like home.

Have you ever sat down at a table and felt like the meal was made just for you? Families gather here for weekend traditions, travelers stop for a satisfying break, and regulars swear there’s no better place to enjoy comfort food at its finest.

If you’re looking for plates piled high and fried chicken that never disappoints, Maryland is the place to be-and once you try it, you’ll understand why people never stop talking about it.

1. Charm City Buffet & Grill

Craving that perfect crunch when you bite into fried chicken?

This Baltimore spot delivers every single time.

You’ll find it at 5200 Campbell Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21236.

Fresh batches come out of the kitchen regularly, so you’re never stuck with soggy or cold pieces.

The coating stays crispy even after sitting on the buffet line for a bit, which is honestly a rare talent.

Portions are generous, and the staff keeps the trays full during rush hours.

Locals say the seasoning hits just right-not too salty, not too bland, but perfectly balanced.

I recommend arriving during lunch or early dinner when the chicken is at its absolute freshest and the crowds haven’t picked through all the best pieces yet.

2. Higgins Crab House

Most people come here for the crab, but they stay for the chicken.

The address is 100 Commerce St, Cambridge, MD 21613.

Their ‘Open Kettle Fried Chicken’ special is something locals rave about, especially during all-you-can-eat nights.

The cooking method gives it a unique texture that’s different from your typical buffet fare.

Seafood lovers appreciate having a solid chicken option when they need a break from shellfish.

The meat stays juicy inside while the outside gets that satisfying crackle.

Cambridge residents consider this a hidden gem because tourists often overlook the chicken entirely.

Try pairing it with their hush puppies for a complete Eastern Shore experience that’ll make your taste buds sing.

3. Mountain Gate Family Restaurant

Sunday dinner vibes hit you the moment you walk through the door.

Located at 133 Frederick Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788.

The fried chicken here tastes like something your grandmother would make if she had a professional kitchen.

Western Maryland mountain air seems to make everything taste better, and this place proves it.

Families drive from neighboring towns specifically for this buffet on weekends.

The chicken has that old-fashioned, made-with-love quality that chain restaurants can never quite replicate.

Comfort food reaches peak levels here, especially when you pile your plate high with mashed potatoes and green beans alongside the chicken.

Locals suggest trying the gravy on everything because it’s homemade daily and absolutely worth the extra calories.

4. GrandE Buffet & Grill

Fusion cooking creates magic when done right, and this place nails it.

You’ll discover it at 14828 Baltimore Ave, Laurel, MD 20707.

Eastern cooking techniques meet Western comfort food in their surprisingly amazing fried chicken.

The batter has a different crispiness than traditional Southern-style recipes, with a lighter, almost tempura-like quality.

Regulars know to grab pieces as soon as fresh trays hit the buffet line.

The seasoning blend includes hints of Asian spices that complement rather than overpower the chicken flavor.

I love how this spot challenges what you expect from buffet fried chicken by offering something genuinely unique.

Pair it with their fried rice for a satisfying combination that bridges two culinary traditions beautifully.

5. Penn Alps Restaurant & Craft Shop

Nostalgia tastes like perfectly seasoned fried chicken cooked the old-fashioned way.

Find this gem at 125 Casselman Rd, Grantsville, MD 21536.

Pennsylvania Dutch heritage influences every dish here, and the fried chicken recipe has been perfected over decades.

It’s the kind of food that makes you remember family gatherings and simpler times.

The craft shop adds to the experience, making this more than just a meal stop.

Maryland hospitality combines with traditional cooking methods to create something genuinely special.

Travelers heading through Western Maryland often plan their route specifically to include a stop here.

The chicken pairs wonderfully with their homemade sides, creating a complete comfort food experience that satisfies both stomach and soul completely.

6. Hooper’s Crab House

Beach town restaurants usually focus on seafood, but this one breaks the mold.

Located at 12913 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842.

Their fried chicken rivals dedicated chicken joints, which surprises first-time visitors who come expecting only crabs.

The kitchen clearly puts as much effort into their poultry as their seafood.

Ocean City locals know this secret and order chicken alongside their crab feasts regularly.

The quality stays consistent even during peak summer tourist season when many restaurants cut corners.

I appreciate having a reliable chicken option at the beach when you need a break from fish.

The casual atmosphere and generous portions make this perfect for families who can’t agree on seafood versus landlubber fare for dinner tonight.

7. Golden Corral

Sometimes the chain restaurants get it right, and this one definitely does.

Multiple Maryland locations serve the same quality, including spots in Columbia, Frederick, and Waldorf.

Their fried chicken stays consistently good across all branches, which is impressive for a nationwide chain.

The coating recipe creates that satisfying crunch people crave without being too greasy.

Families appreciate the reliable quality and kid-friendly atmosphere at every location.

The buffet format means everyone finds something they enjoy, but the chicken remains the star attraction.

Locals often choose this spot for large group gatherings because it accommodates different tastes easily.

The value for money is hard to beat when you’re feeding hungry folks who appreciate unlimited refills and variety all in one place.