9 North Carolina Restaurants That Let You Feast Without Counting Plates
Hungry North Carolina folks know there’s nothing better than getting your money’s worth at mealtime. All-you-can-eat restaurants offer the perfect solution when your stomach’s growling and your wallet’s watching.
From seafood spreads to country cooking, these buffet spots across the Tar Heel State let you pile your plate high without worrying about the bill climbing higher.
1. Casey’s Buffet
Southern comfort meets unlimited servings at this Wilmington gem. The steam tables groan under the weight of fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese that would make any grandma proud.
Regulars swear by the Brunswick stew and cornbread. No fancy frills here; just honest-to-goodness soul food that keeps locals coming back weekly.
2. Golden Corral
Family traditions form around the chocolate fountain at this North Carolina-born chain. Started in Fayetteville in 1973, Golden Corral has grown into a buffet empire.
The massive spread features everything from breakfast favorites to carved meats. Kids especially love the dessert section with its self-serve ice cream machine and endless cookie options.
3. Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet
Vacation memories are made at this Outer Banks institution where seafood reigns supreme. Crab legs disappear faster than the tide as hungry beachgoers crack into the oceanic bounty.
The Caribbean-inspired dishes add unexpected flair to the coastal feast. After a day of sun and sand, nothing satisfies quite like unlimited hushpuppies and fresh-caught local specialties.
4. Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant
Nautical charm fills this seafood paradise where the catch of the day becomes the feast of your dreams. The captain’s-wheel décor sets the maritime mood as you navigate between stations of buttery crab legs and fried flounder.
First-timers often gasp at the 70+ seafood offerings. Save room for the homemade bread pudding that sailors would mutiny for!
5. The Farmer’s Market Restaurant
Morning regulars line up for country breakfast at this state capital institution. Unlike typical buffets, the cafeteria-style service ensures each dish arrives fresh from the kitchen to your tray.
Farm-to-table isn’t just a trend here; it’s tradition. Politicians and farmers sit elbow-to-elbow enjoying the same country ham and red-eye gravy that’s been served for generations.
6. Ichiban Grill Supreme Buffet
Culinary globetrotters flock to this Asian fusion paradise where sushi rolls share space with Mongolian beef. The hibachi grill sizzles as chefs transform raw ingredients into personalized stir-fry masterpieces before your eyes.
Weekend warriors arrive for the special seafood additions. Smart diners know to pace themselves through the eight buffet stations to sample everything from dumplings to donuts.
7. Tandoori Bites
Spice-seekers celebrate the lunch buffet at this Indian gem tucked into a Wilmington strip mall. The rotating menu means Tuesday’s butter chicken might become Thursday’s vindaloo surprise.
Fresh naan arrives tableside while you explore creamy saag paneer and fragrant biryani. Newcomers to Indian cuisine appreciate the helpful staff who explain each dish’s heat level and ingredients.
8. No. 1 China Buffet
Military families from nearby Camp Lejeune make this their celebration spot. The sprawling buffet offers something for everyone; from authentic Chinese specialties to American comfort foods.
Sushi rolls disappear almost as quickly as they’re made. The hibachi station draws crowds during weekend dinner service when seafood options expand to include crab legs and jumbo shrimp.
9. Chason’s Buffet
Old-school Southern hospitality defines this family-owned establishment where recipes haven’t changed in decades. Sunday after church, the line stretches out the door as patrons wait for home cooking without the home cleanup.
Local lore speaks to the secret recipe behind their famous fried chicken, a key part of the country cooking excellence that built their reputation.
