Best Vegas Buffets in 2025: Worth the Splurge (or Not)?
- Sergio Barbasso
- Oct 28
- 13 min read
The Real Local Guide to What’s Still Open, What Closed, and What’s Actually Worth Your Money
Here’s What Most Travel Blogs Won’t Tell You:
Most Vegas buffets aren’t worth what you’ll pay.
And I say this as someone who fell for the same shiny promise a decade ago.
When I first came to Las Vegas in 2012, I thought buffets were the ultimate Vegas experience — towers of crab legs, champagne fountains, and a way to “beat the system” by eating everything in sight.
My friends and I still laugh about that first trip: we waited almost 45 minutes in line for a buffet that looked incredible on their website but turned out to be a glorified cafeteria with dim lighting and cold pasta.
Fast forward to today — after living here since 2019, working as travel guides and helping hundreds of visitors plan smarter trips — we’ve learned that most buffets in Vegas are designed for quantity, not quality.
With today’s Las Vegas buffet prices (full details below), it’s tough to get a real bargain in 2025 or 2026—even if you eat a lot.
Going to a Vegas buffet is more of an intentional splurge for travelers who want to experience a huge variety of dishes in one meal.
That doesn’t mean they’re all bad.
It means you need to know which ones are actually worth the splurge and which ones look good online but will quietly devour your budget and appetite at the same time.
This guide was born out of all the mistakes we made — the overpriced lobster nights, the “all-you-can-eat” regrets, the post-buffet naps that ruined our evening plans.
Now, we eat (and write) differently.
We’ve tested every open buffet in 2025 ourselves, talked to the local friends who still go almost every month, and built a ranking that separates the real Vegas experiences from the overpriced tourist traps.
The Post-Pandemic Vegas Buffet:
What Really Changed in 2025
There was a time when Vegas buffets were a rite of passage — $19.99 all-you-can-eat crab legs, mountains of shrimp, and chocolate fountains you’d regret touching after seeing the crowd.
But post-2020? Everything changed.
By October 2025, most casinos will have realized that buffets are no longer the easy moneymakers they used to be.
Staffing costs, food waste, and tourists chasing “Instagram-worthy” food have pushed many to close or reinvent themselves.
Some buffets are back and thriving. Others… well, they should’ve stayed closed.
Anna and I have tested almost all of them — some multiple times (yes, for science). We’ve seen everything from jaw-dropping seafood towers to dry pancakes that should be declared a tourist trap.
So here it is: the Local’s 2025 Buffet Survival Guide — what’s actually worth your money, and what’s better left off your plate.
1 | Wynn Buffet – Elegance, Still Standing Strong
Verdict: The most beautiful buffet in town.
While popular spots like Bacchanal at Caesars or the MGM buffet are all about excess, the Wynn Buffet focuses on the experience.
The dining room is breathtaking—pastel glass flowers, soaring ceilings, and genuinely friendly service. Staff often greet you with smiles, and even with a 90-minute time limit, you never feel rushed.
As of fall 2025, Wynn offers over 90 dishes daily, including rotating global cuisine nights (Mediterranean Mondays, Korean BBQ Fridays). Prices hover around $75 for dinner.
Why locals love it: The presentation and staff consistency haven’t dipped in years. Their made-to-order omelet bar and prime rib carving station are always hits. Whenever we meet business partners or friends visiting Las Vegas who want the ultimate buffet experience, Wynn is our go-to.
Local Tip: Book brunch instead of dinner — the natural light and the crossover menu (breakfast + lunch favorites) make it the perfect “Vegas recovery meal.”
2 | Bellagio Buffet – A Classic That’s Rebuilding
Verdict: A comeback story in progress.
The Bellagio Buffet closed for months during renovations in 2024 and reopened in early 2025 with a partial redesign. It’s still elegant, but the selection has shrunk — fewer carving stations, fewer desserts.
However, the quality remains pretty solid, especially for breakfast.
Price: $65–$70 for dinner.
What makes it worth it: You’re staying near the Center Strip and want to pair it with a show at Bellagio or Caesars.
What makes it skippable: Dinner crowds + fewer “wow” items compared to Wynn or Bacchanal.
Local Tip: If you go, time it around sunset and grab a Bellagio Fountain view seat. It’s not guaranteed, but ask politely — they usually accommodate if not too busy.
3 | Wicked Spoon – The Cool Kid That Grew Up (a Bit Too Much)
Verdict: Stylish, fun, but no longer the “hidden gem.”
When Wicked Spoon opened at The Cosmopolitan, it changed the buffet game — single-serving plates, no messy piles of food, and that “Instagram chic” vibe that made it feel more LA than Vegas.
Now, in 2025, it’s still visually stunning, but the prices and selection don’t justify the hype for everyone.
Dinner runs about $72–$78 per person, and the dessert bar is still a highlight. But the portions are smaller, and several signature dishes (like the bone marrow and truffle mac) appear only during premium hours.
Why still go: It’s perfect for couples or foodies who value presentation and ambiance over quantity.
Why you might skip: Value-wise, Wynn or Bacchanal offer more for the same money.
Local Tip: Go for weekday brunch (around $49). You’ll get breakfast favorites, small plates, and cocktails in one of the most photogenic buffets in town — without paying luxury dinner prices.
4 | Bacchanal Buffet – Caesars Palace
Verdict: Still the most popular — but not for everyone.
Bacchanal remains the most famous buffet in Las Vegas, and honestly, it deserves part of the hype.
After its 2024 menu refresh, the seafood section is back on top — think snow crab, lobster claws, and oysters shucked on demand. The dim sum bar and dessert station are world-class, and the ambiance feels more like fine dining than “buffet.”
What’s new in 2025: smaller portions, similar quality. Caesars has cut waste and upgraded plating, but the food doesn’t always meet travelers’ expectations.
Prices have also climbed, averaging $90–$100 per person for weekend dinners.
When it’s worth it:
You want the ultimate Vegas buffet once in your life.
You’re staying at Caesars Palace or on the Center Strip.
You can go during early dinner (4–6 PM) to avoid crowds and still catch full selections.
When it’s NOT worth it:
You’re not a seafood lover.
You’re with kids — the value drops drastically.
You expect unlimited mimosas (those are extra now).
Local Tip: Reserve in advance through OpenTable — walk-ins after 6 PM can face waits of 60–90 minutes.
5 | MGM Grand Buffet – For the “Just Give Me Options” Crowd
Verdict: Functional, not fancy — good for convenience, not memories.
The MGM Grand Buffet is one of those places that feels like it’s there to serve convention-goers and bachelor parties who just need fuel. It’s not bad, but it’s not memorable either.
The variety is wide — salads, carving station, desserts — but none stand out as spectacular. The atmosphere feels more cafeteria than culinary event.
Price: Around $50–$55 for dinner, with weekday breakfast as low as $32.
When to go:
You’re staying at MGM Grand and want something easy before a show or flight.
You have a Rewards points deal (MGM occasionally offers 2-for-1).
When to skip:
You’re expecting luxury or “wow” food moments.
Local Tip: Go for breakfast, not dinner. It’s cheaper, fresher, and you can fuel up before hitting the Strip without overpaying.
And with the money you save by picking the right time to visit, treat yourself to a stunning Cirque du Soleil show like KÀ at the MGM.
HERE you can read more about the best Cirque du Soleil shows still on in 2025, ranked by us locals.
6 | AYCE Buffet at Palms – The Real Local Favorite
Verdict: Best value buffet in all of Vegas, hands down.
Locals truly like the AYCE Buffet (short for “All You Can Eat”) at Palms, and for good reason. It’s the perfect blend of quality, variety, and price — and still feels like the “old-school Vegas” experience that vanished on the Strip.
As of fall 2025, prices hover around $32 for lunch and $42 for dinner, and the food selection is far better than you’d expect: prime rib, sushi, tacos, crab legs on weekends, and one of the best dessert bars off-Strip.
Why we love it: Friendly staff, fast seating, and locals actually eat here — not just tourists.
Why skip it: If you’re staying far south or want a more “luxury vibe.”
Local Tip: Go on Friday or Saturday nights for the seafood upgrade — and yes, they still do unlimited crab legs without an upcharge.
7 | South Point Garden Buffet – The Old-School Legend
Verdict: A time capsule of classic Vegas — cheap, cheerful, and full of charm.
South Point’s Garden Buffet is one of those rare survivors that keeps the tradition alive.
It’s family-friendly, no-frills, and genuinely good value.
Price: $24 for breakfast, $34 for dinner.
Highlights: Prime rib night, Italian night, and one of the friendliest buffet staff in town.
Local Tip: If you’re driving back from California or staying off-Strip, it’s worth the short detour. Just don’t expect Bellagio-level presentation — it’s hearty, old-school, and that’s exactly why locals love it.
8 | M Resort Buffet – Still the Hidden Luxury Gem
Verdict: Off-Strip, upscale, and still one of Vegas’s best-kept secrets.
Locals quietly celebrate this one. The Studio B Buffet at M Resort (about 20 minutes south of the Strip) remains one of the highest-rated buffets for both quality and service.
Everything feels refined: real chefs behind every station, complimentary beer & wine (yes, still included in 2025), and a calm crowd — mostly locals and savvy travelers who did their homework.
Price: Around $60 for dinner, $45 for brunch, which includes bottomless drinks.
Why go: Zero crowds, polished ambiance, no smoke, no chaos.
Why skip: You’ll need a car or rideshare (~$30–$40 each way).
Local Tip: Go for Sunday brunch — crab legs, mimosas, and mountain views through floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s the Vegas buffet experience without the Strip markup.
If you’re staying off-Strip and need a rental car, we’ve been booking through RentalCars for years—free cancellation, no surprises. Click the banner below to secure your car today:
9 | Buffet at Excalibur – Budget Doesn’t Mean Bad
Verdict: If you know what to expect, this can still deliver.
This buffet often gets unfairly trashed online.
Is it the best buffet in Las Vegas? Hell no! Not even close...
But is it a lifesaver for families, solo travelers, or budget-conscious visitors?
Absolutely.
Family-friendly, huge seating area, and easy access if you’re staying south Strip. Dinner costs $45, with weekend brunch around $35.
Why go: Convenience, value, and nostalgia.
Why skip: If you’re chasing premium dining or unique dishes.
Local Tip: For quick energy between shows or pool time, these work fine — just lower your expectations and eat what looks fresh.
10 | The Off-Strip Underdogs (Westgate, Rampart, Main Street Station)
Verdict: The most local of local buffets — comfort over glamour.
If you want to escape the chaos of the Strip entirely, this is where Vegas locals actually eat.
Fresh Buffet at Westgate: Casual, quiet, and close to the Convention Center. Around $36 dinner, and great for visitors attending events.
Market Place Buffet at Rampart Casino: My personal favorite since I live nearby. A West-Side gem with fresh salads, carving stations, and excellent dessert selection. Dinner ~$39.
Garden Court Buffet at Main Street Station: The last Downtown buffet standing — classic charm, unbeatable people-watching, and vintage Vegas energy. Dinner ~$34.
Local Tip: Main Street Station’s weekend brunch is a hidden gem — cheaper than Denny’s if you factor in quality.
Las Vegas Buffets Closed Forever in 2025:
Are Your Favorites Still Open?
If you’re searching online for “Is [Buffet Name] in Las Vegas still open in 2025?” or “Las Vegas buffet closures 2025,” you’ve come to the right place.
As of October 2025, many iconic Vegas buffets have permanently closed, leaving only a few must-visit spots for all-you-can-eat (AYCE) enthusiasts.
Here’s the complete list of Las Vegas buffets that have shut down, along with the year they closed, so you can stop guessing and start planning:
The Buffet at Aria – Closed indefinitely in March 2020, this buffet was known for its international cuisine, seafood options, and overall quality.
Bayside Buffet at Mandalay Bay – Closed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and never reopened. It offered a variety of seafood and American dishes.
Cravings at The Mirage – Closed in 2024 along with The Mirage itself, this buffet featured diverse international cuisine and a self-serve drink station.
Le Village Buffet at Paris Las Vegas – It was themed around French provinces and offered a variety of French dishes.
Luxor Buffet – Closed permanently on March 30, 2025, this buffet was one of the most affordable all-you-can-eat options on the Strip.
Westgate's Fresh Buffet – Closed without notice since May 5, 2025.
Carnival World Buffet at Rio – Closed permanently in 2020, it was known for its extensive selection of international dishes.
Vegas Buffets Still Open in 2025 | Ranked by Locals
Based on taste, atmosphere, value, and overall experience
Do You Tip at Vegas Buffets? (The Honest Local Answer)
This question comes up more than you’d think — and it’s a fair one.
Unlike a sit-down restaurant, buffets have servers who refill your drinks, clear your plates, and often go unnoticed behind the “self-service” concept.
The unspoken rule in Las Vegas (and across the U.S.) is simple:
👉 Tip between $2–$5 per person, or 15–18% if the service was attentive and friendly.
Why it matters: These workers keep the whole operation running — often walking miles per shift and smiling through the chaos so you can have a good time. Many of them are the same people who kept the buffets alive after the 2020 closures, rebuilding them from scratch.
So yes — tipping is absolutely part of the Vegas buffet culture, even if no one tells you that.
When you plan your dining budget, and the servers make sure you have a good time, include gratuity as part of the real cost.
It’s not just good etiquette; it’s a small act of respect toward the people who make Vegas feel like Vegas.
Final Thoughts: The Buffett Comeback
Buffets in Las Vegas were supposed to die after 2020.
But here we are in late 2025, with almost every major property having brought them back — sometimes smarter, cleaner, and better curated.
For us locals, that comeback means more than nostalgia. It’s a reminder that Vegas always finds a way to reinvent itself — from the chaos of all-you-can-eat shrimp towers to the refined brunch setups at Wynn or M Resort.
So whether you’re coming for luxury, value, or variety, pick your buffet with intention.
Because when you eat smart, you travel smart — and that’s exactly what Getawayk™ stands for.
Local Resources & Smart Traveler Tools
Book your hotel: [Booking.com — compare rates, resort fees upfront]
Reserve experiences: [Vegas.com — exclusive buffet & show bundles]
Smart tip guide: Download our FREE eGuide “Las Vegas Essentials 2025” through the banner FREE GUIDE below — includes buffet hacks, day trips, and local savings.
And if you really want to travel smarter, don't forget to secure our 260-page guide called:
Anna and I wrote it after seeing countless travelers from all over the world arrive here without a plan, armed with scattered info… and end up missing the best this city has to offer.
Available in three languages—Spanish, French, Italian—and now in English for a global audience, with a special pre-sale price. (Grab it before the full release!)
It’s always up-to-date—unlike many Las Vegas resources that go stale within months—and it literally saves your vacation.
It tells you:
What to do
What to avoid
Where to eat
Where to stay
How to save money
How to dodge scams
…and all in a friendly, helpful tone, not a generic travel brochure.
The price? Just a fraction of what you’d spend on bottled water on the Strip.
The value? Days of stress, hundreds of dollars, and countless “If only I’d known this sooner” moments.
Happy reading—and enjoy a smart Vegas vacation!
FAQ: Vegas Buffets Still Open in 2025
1. How much should I expect to pay at Las Vegas buffets in 2025?
In late 2025, the price for major Strip buffets ranges roughly US $70–$100+ for dinner at top-tier locations like Bacchanal Buffet or Wynn Buffet. Off-Strip and downtown buffets often run US $30–$45 for dinner (see: AYCE Buffet at Palms or Garden Court Buffet). Knowing the price bands helps you decide if you’re splurging or just settling.
2. Which Las Vegas buffets are truly worth it in 2025, and which should you skip?
From our experience as locals and guides (since 2012 + living here since 2019), the ones worth your money offer a rare blend of quality, variety, and value. For example, Wynn (refined setting), M Resort (luxury experience without Strip chaos), and AYCE Palms (off-Strip value). Some others feel overrated because you’re paying Strip prices for also-ran food. Use our ranked list in the article to match your style: luxury splurge, mid-tier treat, or budget buffet.
3. Do I need to book or reserve a buffet in Las Vegas in 2025?
Yes—especially for the top buffets on the Strip. Popular ones like Bacchanal or Wicked Spoon may have lengthy waits in peak dinner hours. Booking early or going at off-peak hours (early dinner, weekdays) can save you time and disappointment. When you’re staying only a few days in Vegas, wasting an hour in line is one of the hidden costs.
4. What’s the tipping etiquette at Las Vegas buffets in 2025?
Buffets may look “self-serve,” but you’ll still likely have drink refills, table clearing, and servers working behind the scenes. On average, tipping US$2–$5 per person, or around 10-15% of the bill for attentive service, is regarded as fair in 2025. Cash is good; cards are acceptable. Including this in your budget ensures you don’t feel “nickelled and dimed” later.
5. How can I get the best value from a Vegas buffet without feeling like I wasted money?
Smart travellers (like you!) optimise by:
Choosing the right time (brunch instead of high-priced dinner, off-peak day),
Reading the menu ahead (seafood heavy? perfect. Re-serving leftovers? maybe skip),
Opting off-Strip for value if you’re not after luxury, and
Including tipping, resort fees, and drinks in your cost calculation.
When done right, a buffet becomes not a budget trap but a highlight of your Vegas trip.
