7 All You Can Eat Spots in Ohio Locals Say Are Totally Worth the Calories

Ohio’s all-you-can-eat scene covers everything from homey Amish classics to international flavors, each with a story and a loyal following. After talking with locals and checking out reviews, I found seven spots that regularly earn high praise, not just for the quantity, but for genuine quality and comfort.

These aren’t just buffets; they’re places where people gather for memories and that extra slice of pie, all in the name of good eating.

1. Der Dutchman, Plain City

There’s something undeniably comforting about walking into Der Dutchman in Plain City. The scent of slow-roasted meats and fresh bread welcomes you, setting the stage for a meal that feels as close to home as you can get without actually being there. Locals often bring out-of-town guests, proudly piling their plates with fried chicken, roast beef, and pork chops straight from the kitchen.

The buffet isn’t just about meat, though. You’ll find classics like buttery mashed potatoes, rich gravy, green beans cooked low and slow, and a salad bar for those looking to balance the spread. It’s hard to resist the rows of homemade pies, a slice of blueberry or pecan signals you’ve done something right.

Generations have made Der Dutchman part of family celebrations, road trips, and Sunday traditions. The staff greet regulars by name, and everyone leaves satisfied, whether they stick to the classics or sample a little of everything. For anyone new to Ohio’s Amish country, it’s a gentle introduction to what makes the region special.

2. Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen, Mt. Hope

If you ever find yourself in Mt. Hope, Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen is likely the first place a local will recommend. This isn’t just reputation, it’s earned, year after year, with crunchy fried chicken, buttered noodles, and sides that taste like they came straight from a family reunion. The atmosphere is warm, a sense of ease fills the air, and people linger over coffee and dessert.

The buffet isn’t flashy, but it’s undeniably satisfying. Creamy mashed potatoes, fresh-baked rolls, and coleslaw share space with rotating specials, ensuring you rarely see the exact same spread two visits in a row. The pies are the kind you’ll remember long after, always homemade, generous with fruit or chocolate, and served with a smile.

Locals often pause their diets at the door. It’s the place for catching up with neighbors, refueling after a long drive, or just settling in for comfort food that doesn’t need to impress, because it already has. Mrs. Yoder’s brings home cooking to the table, no fuss needed.

3. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, Columbus (German Village)

The Autobahn Buffet at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus comes with a side of Columbus history. The moment you walk in, the aroma of smoked sausage and tangy sauerkraut signals you’re somewhere different. This isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience, especially when the live polka band strikes up in the background.

Signature sausages like the Bahama Mama headline the spread, but regulars point to the rotating selection of bratwurst, schnitzel, and soft pretzels as reason enough to return. Sides like potato salad, red cabbage, and spaetzle round out the meal, each with its own devoted fans. The Autobahn Buffet runs at lunchtime Monday through Friday, while dinner is usually à la carte.

Schmidt’s has been drawing crowds since 1886, and the buffet still feels like a celebration. Servers in lederhosen add to the old-world charm, while the dessert counter, hello, cream puffs, reminds you that leaving room after the mains is always a wise idea. For a taste of German Village that goes beyond the postcard, the Autobahn Buffet hits the mark.

4. The City Buffet, Columbus

Some buffets quietly get the job done, and The City Buffet is a perfect example. Also listed locally as “City Buffet & Grill,” so you may see both names. Here, nothing is over-the-top, but regulars appreciate how the sushi is rolled fresh and the hibachi station never sits still. You feel the energy of the place as families of all backgrounds fill tables, each plate reflecting a different craving.

Choices range from spicy tuna rolls to stir-fried noodles, crab rangoon to tender chicken wings. The variety doesn’t just look good, it tastes fresh, which is why so many Columbus locals return weekly. Portions are generous, and the trays never sit empty for long.

People keep coming back thanks to straightforward service and honest food. There’s a sense of trust between the kitchen and the crowd, if something’s on the buffet, it’s probably a local favorite. Simple pleasures like soft-serve ice cream or a plate of sushi after a tough week make The City Buffet stand out in a city full of choices.

5. Brazilian Grill & Bakery, Columbus

Brazilian Grill & Bakery delivers a buffet that’s both a celebration and a surprise. The sizzle from the grill signals something exciting, while the aroma of spices wafts through the air. Locals talk about the variety, they fill plates with smoky meats, black beans, rice, and colorful salads. The buffet is smaller in scale than big national Brazilian steakhouses, but it’s praised for authenticity and homemade flavor.

Unlike other buffets, you’ll also spot pão de queijo (cheese bread) and golden pastries alongside traditional options. There’s often a happy mix of regulars and first-timers, chatting in English and Portuguese over guaraná and desserts. The staff know their regulars’ favorites, and they never hesitate to recommend something new.

For dessert, many reach for flan or brigadeiros. The experience is warm, relaxed, and always just a bit different from the last time you visited. If you want a buffet that’s as much about discovery as comfort, this spot in Columbus deserves a spot on your list.

6. Fuji Buffet, Parma

Fuji Buffet in Parma has a loyal following that spans generations. Locals swear by the freshness of the sushi and the steady rotation of seafood and pan-Asian dishes. There’s always something new to try, from salmon nigiri to steaming bowls of udon.

The atmosphere is relaxed but lively, with families celebrating milestones and couples enjoying an affordable, hearty dinner. The staff move quickly, refilling trays and making sure nothing sits too long. For those with food sensitivities, the buffet’s gentle approach to seasoning has its own fanbase.

It’s not just about the sushi, though. Crispy tempura and delicate desserts round out the meal, ensuring everyone leaves full. Fuji Buffet proves that in Northeast Ohio, quality Asian cuisine can go hand-in-hand with an all-you-can-eat format,and the crowds keep proving it week after week.

7. Amish Door Restaurant, Wilmot

The Amish Door Restaurant in Wilmot feels like a gentle reminder to slow down. Nestled among rolling hills, it stands as a gathering spot for families and friends seeking classic, comforting fare. The buffet covers all the bases, fried chicken, roast beef, fresh vegetables, and warm rolls straight from the oven.

Everything is prepared with care. There’s pride in the simple recipes and a respect for tradition that shows in every bite. Homemade pies line the dessert table, each slice filled with local fruit or creamy custard.

On busy weekends, you’ll find a mix of tourists and locals sharing stories over dinner. The setting encourages you to linger with another cup of coffee or walk the grounds after your meal. For many, it’s more than a restaurant, it’s a tradition in itself, inviting everyone to eat well and relax.