Take the scenic route through Kentucky’s peaceful countryside, where rolling hills, small-town charm, and hearty meals await. Whether you’re craving classic Southern comfort food or homestyle favorites, these eight buffets offer generous portions, welcoming atmospheres, and a true taste of the region – perfect for those who prefer to wander off the beaten path and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
1. Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn, Owensboro
Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn is an iconic barbecue restaurant in Owensboro, known especially for its smoked mutton, a regional specialty. Their buffet offers a variety of smoked meats including ribs, chicken, and beef brisket, all slow-cooked over hickory wood for deep flavor.
Along with the meats, the buffet features traditional Southern sides such as baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, and hush puppies. The restaurant has a casual, welcoming atmosphere with a history dating back to 1930, making it a beloved stop for locals and visitors alike.
Moonlite’s buffet style allows guests to enjoy generous portions and sample multiple dishes, making it a perfect choice for travelers driving through Kentucky’s countryside seeking authentic barbecue paired with classic Southern comfort.
2. King Buffet, Louisville (Bardstown Road)
King Buffet on Bardstown Road in Louisville offers an extensive Asian-style buffet featuring Chinese cuisine, seafood, and sushi. This all-you-can-eat restaurant provides a broad selection of dishes including stir-fried vegetables, fried rice, egg rolls, and crispy tempura.
The sushi bar offers freshly made rolls and sashimi, giving guests variety beyond the typical buffet fare. King Buffet’s casual setting makes it a convenient and affordable choice for travelers passing through Louisville who want to enjoy a diverse meal.
It’s a popular spot for families and groups due to the wide variety of food options that cater to different tastes. With its combination of Asian flavors and seafood offerings, King Buffet stands out as a flavorful, filling option on the country route.
3. Jimmie’s Egg, Louisville (Breakfast Buffet)
Jimmie’s Egg in Louisville is a well-known breakfast spot that features an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet on certain days, perfect for fueling up before a day exploring. The buffet includes classic breakfast staples such as scrambled eggs, fluffy pancakes, sausage links, crispy bacon, and home fries.
Freshly made biscuits and gravy are often a highlight, along with other Southern breakfast favorites. The restaurant prides itself on using quality ingredients and serving hearty portions, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Jimmie’s Egg offers a warm, casual atmosphere ideal for families or groups.
This breakfast buffet is a great way to start a morning road trip, providing plenty of energy for tastings, tours, and scenic drives through Kentucky’s heartland.
4. Old Country Buffet, Lexington
Old Country Buffet in Lexington offers a classic American buffet experience with a wide range of dishes to satisfy many tastes. Guests can enjoy carved meats like roast beef and turkey, alongside comfort foods such as mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and green beans.
The buffet also features a salad bar with fresh vegetables and toppings, as well as a dessert station with cakes, pies, and cookies. It’s a family-friendly restaurant with a casual atmosphere that makes it an easy stop for travelers exploring Kentucky.
The variety and value make it popular with locals looking for a hearty meal. This buffet delivers a straightforward, no-frills dining experience, perfect for those who want familiar dishes served in generous portions after a day of scenic drives.
5. Claudia Sanders Dinner House, Shelbyville
Claudia Sanders Dinner House, located in Shelbyville, is a tribute to the legacy of Colonel Harland Sanders’ wife, Claudia, and offers a traditional Southern buffet on Sundays. This buffet features classic Southern comfort food including crispy fried chicken, creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, homemade yeast rolls, and an assortment of seasonal vegetables.
The dining experience emphasizes hospitality and down-home flavors, reflecting Kentucky’s rich culinary heritage. The restaurant is housed in a charming, historic building, adding to its welcoming atmosphere. The Sunday buffet is especially popular with locals who come for the generous portions and variety.
Homemade desserts like banana pudding and cobblers often round out the meal, making Claudia Sanders Dinner House a great stop for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Southern cooking in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
6. Country Kitchen Buffet, Bardstown
Country Kitchen Buffet in Bardstown offers a hearty Southern-style buffet, making it a fitting stop in the heart of Kentucky. This buffet features traditional dishes such as fried chicken, baked ham, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, and corn pudding.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and generous portions, the restaurant provides comfort food that reflects the local Kentucky flavor. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a filling meal after a day of exploring the surrounding countryside and local attractions.
With a focus on homestyle cooking and fresh ingredients, Country Kitchen Buffet delivers satisfying, down-home meals that highlight Southern hospitality. Desserts such as homemade cobblers and cakes add a sweet finish, making it a favorite for visitors and residents alike.
7. Santa Fe Cattle Co., Lexington
Santa Fe Cattle Co. in Lexington is a Western-themed restaurant offering an all-you-can-eat salad bar along with hearty mains, making it a great choice for travelers seeking variety and fresh options. The buffet features a wide selection of fresh vegetables, toppings, and dressings, alongside soups and sides.
While the main menu includes steaks, ribs, and other grilled favorites, the buffet complements these with lighter fare, ideal for balancing a day of indulgent flavors and hearty meals. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere and generous portions make Santa Fe Cattle Co. a convenient stop in Lexington.
This spot offers a blend of Southwestern flavors with classic American dishes, providing a satisfying dining experience that caters to a variety of tastes in the region.
8. Golden Corral, Louisville
Golden Corral in Louisville is a well-known national buffet chain offering an extensive variety of American cuisine, making it a reliable option for travelers passing through Kentucky. The buffet features everything from carved meats like roast beef and turkey to comfort sides including mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, steamed vegetables, and a salad bar.
In addition, Golden Corral offers a dessert station with cakes, pies, and soft-serve ice cream. Its family-friendly environment and wide food selection cater to all ages and preferences, making it a popular stop for families and groups.
The casual dining experience and consistent quality make Golden Corral a convenient, filling choice for those seeking a diverse meal after exploring the scenic routes of Kentucky.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
