Virginia is quietly home to a buffet scene that surprises many visitors. From seafood feasts to classic American comfort spreads, there’s a little something for everyone. I’ve tasted my way around and rounded up the seven best buffets in Virginia, each with its own personality and strengths.
Whether you’re after family favorites, creative Asian fusion, or a seafood extravaganza, you’ll find a spot that fits the bill. This list is for anyone who wants both variety and comfort food, served with a side of local flair. Here’s where to start if you’re hungry for more than just a meal.
1. Ocean Grill Buffet, Virginia Beach
Ocean Grill Buffet has earned a loyal following in Virginia Beach for its generous mix of seafood and comfort favorites. The sushi counter is always lively, with colorful rolls and fresh nigiri lined up alongside chilled shrimp and crab legs. At the hibachi station, chefs cook your picks to order, adding some fun flair to the meal.
The variety stretches well beyond seafood. You’ll find fried chicken, ribs, mashed potatoes, and lo mein sharing space on the buffet, making it easy to mix and match plates. I’ve seen families pair steamed clams with mac and cheese, or balance sushi with a slice of roast beef, it’s all part of the appeal.
The dining room is casual, brightly lit, and welcoming to groups of all sizes. On weekends, it fills quickly, but the staff keep stations tidy and well-stocked. Ocean Grill is the kind of place where everyone discovers a favorite before dessert.
2. Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant, Virginia Beach / Williamsburg
Captain George’s is a true Virginia institution, best known for its all-you-can-eat seafood feasts. The star attraction is the endless piles of Alaskan crab legs, cracked open at tables across the sprawling dining room.
The buffet also features shrimp, scallops, oysters, and plenty of Southern-style sides, so every plate can be as coastal or as classic as you like.
For those who prefer land-based fare, the carving station offers juicy prime rib, roasted chicken, and hearty vegetables. Everything is served in large, freshly replenished batches, keeping quality high even at peak hours.
Both the Virginia Beach and Williamsburg locations draw big weekend crowds, from families on vacation to locals celebrating special occasions.
The staff are quick to clear plates and help newcomers navigate the options. If you’re looking for a buffet that feels like a full-on seafood event, Captain George’s sets the standard in Virginia.
3. Yukai Buffet, Virginia Beach
At Yukai Buffet, the sushi selection always grabs my attention first. Over 40 varieties line the chilled case, from classic tuna to more inventive rolls topped with sauces and crunchy toppings. It’s not just about quantity; the fish tastes fresh, and the chefs work quickly to keep everything looking appealing.
But sushi isn’t the only highlight. Hot stations feature dishes like teriyaki chicken, stir-fried noodles, and crispy tempura, all arriving in small, frequent batches. I appreciate their dessert bar, too, there are cakes, fruit, and even a chocolate fountain for those who save room.
The vibe here feels upbeat and lively, with families, couples, and groups of friends all finding something they enjoy. The open kitchen lets you watch hibachi items being cooked to order, which adds a fun, interactive touch. If you want variety in both seafood and hot entrees, Yukai is one of the strongest choices in the area.
4. Traditions Restaurant, Williamsburg
Set inside the Williamsburg Lodge, Traditions Restaurant combines Southern hospitality with a buffet that feels both comforting and refined. Depending on the season, you’ll find generous spreads featuring fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and carved meats alongside lighter options like fresh salads and roasted vegetables.
On my first visit, the scent of cornbread and ham greeted me before I even reached the buffet line. What I like about Traditions is its balance of homestyle flavor and polished presentation. The menu changes with local produce, so sweet potatoes or Virginia-grown greens might appear as seasonal sides.
The atmosphere is relaxed, with families, couples, and visitors from nearby Colonial Williamsburg all sharing the space. Traditions is especially known for its breakfast and Sunday brunch buffets, when pancakes, biscuits, and pastries join the lineup. It’s the kind of place where the food feels familiar, but the setting makes it special.
5. Peking Restaurant, Williamsburg
Peking Restaurant has been a steady favorite in Williamsburg for decades, thanks to its approachable Chinese-American buffet and casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The buffet lineup leans on classics like sweet and sour chicken, beef with broccoli, fried rice, and lo mein, dishes that feel familiar but never fail to satisfy.
The aromas of garlic, ginger, and sesame drift from the steam tables, setting the tone before you even grab a plate. While the focus is on traditional Chinese-American fare, you’ll sometimes spot extras like spicy Szechuan dishes or a small selection of sushi rolls for variety.
Regulars especially appreciate the value of the lunch buffet, which includes soup, appetizers, and dessert at a reasonable price. Booths and tables make it comfortable for both small groups and larger families, and the service is attentive without being rushed. For a relaxed, no-frills meal where favorites are always close at hand, Peking remains a local standby.
6. Great American Buffet, Manassas/Fredericksburg
Great American Buffet is the kind of spot you head to when you’re craving classic comfort foods in generous portions. The buffet is laid out with all the staples: crispy fried chicken, roast beef carved to order, creamy mashed potatoes, and an extensive salad bar for lighter plates.
The dessert counter is always a hit, ice cream sundaes piled high, puddings, and cakes that keep kids and adults circling back for seconds. What makes this place stand out is its community feel. Families gather after games, coworkers meet for casual dinners, and birthdays are celebrated around long tables.
The staff are quick to clear plates and check in, keeping the atmosphere friendly and efficient. Since hours and offerings can vary by location, it’s always worth checking ahead. But whether in Manassas or Fredericksburg, you can count on a straightforward buffet that delivers comfort food without pretension.
7. Crazy Buffet & Grill, Chesapeake / Hampton Roads
Crazy Buffet & Grill has become a favorite for locals around Chesapeake and the broader Hampton Roads area. I notice the buzz of conversation and laughter as soon as I walk in. The variety of Chinese buffet dishes mixes with sizzling grill items, offering something different from your average buffet.
The lineup includes classics like lo mein, stir fries, fried dumplings, as well as American options for those less adventurous. The grill draws a crowd; you can pick your ingredients, hand them to the chef, and enjoy a freshly cooked plate in minutes. Staff move quickly, keeping everything fresh and the buffet lines moving.
Families, friends, and solo diners all seem to find their rhythm here. It’s relaxed enough for a quick lunch, but the range of choices means no one leaves bored or hungry. The energy is distinctly local, and there’s usually a new dish to try every time I visit.
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