Unearth The Voyage
Virginia is home to some of the best buffet restaurants where fried chicken takes center stage. From historic taverns to modern all-you-can-eat spots, these buffets serve up crispy, juicy chicken that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.
Whether you’re craving traditional Southern-style or looking to try something new, these 14 buffets across the state have exactly what you need.
1. Michie Tavern (The Ordinary) – Charlottesville
Step back in time at this 18th-century tavern where history meets hearty Southern cooking. The buffet here features traditional fried chicken that’s been pleasing diners since colonial days, prepared with recipes passed down through generations.
Guests enjoy unlimited servings of golden-brown chicken alongside cornbread, biscuits, and classic Virginia sides. The rustic atmosphere adds charm to every meal, making you feel like you’re dining in another era.
This spot is perfect for families seeking authentic Southern hospitality with a historical twist that makes every visit memorable and delicious.
2. Wood Grill Buffet – Charlottesville
Smoke and spice come together beautifully at this popular Charlottesville destination. Their fried chicken stands out with a perfectly seasoned crust that stays crispy even under the heat lamps, drawing crowds throughout the week.
The buffet offers variety beyond just chicken, but regulars know the star of the show. Fresh batches come out regularly, ensuring you always get hot, flavorful pieces.
Families appreciate the affordable pricing and kid-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a University of Virginia student or just passing through town, this buffet delivers satisfying comfort food every single time.
3. Great American Buffet – Manassas
Located in the heart of Manassas, this buffet lives up to its patriotic name with all-American favorites. Fried chicken here gets rave reviews for its juicy interior and crunchy coating that hits the spot every time.
The spacious dining area accommodates large groups easily, making it ideal for family gatherings or celebrations. Beyond chicken, the buffet includes salads, desserts, and rotating specials that keep things interesting.
Servers keep drinks filled and tables clean while you enjoy multiple trips to the buffet line. Great value and consistent quality make this a go-to spot for Northern Virginia residents.
4. Golden Corral Buffet & Grill – Manassas
This national chain delivers reliable quality with a Southern twist at their Manassas location. Golden Corral’s fried chicken is a customer favorite, featuring that signature crispy breading everyone recognizes and loves.
The endless buffet includes carved meats, fresh vegetables, and a legendary dessert bar with soft-serve ice cream. Families flock here on weekends for the unbeatable variety and value.
Kids eat affordably, and seniors enjoy special discounts. The restaurant stays busy because they consistently deliver hot, fresh food throughout service hours, making every visit worthwhile for fried chicken enthusiasts across all ages.
5. Brion’s Grille – Fairfax
Known primarily as a sports bar, Brion’s surprises visitors with their Sunday brunch buffet featuring exceptional fried chicken. The casual vibe combines game-day excitement with comfort food done right, creating a unique dining experience.
Big screens show the latest games while you pile your plate high with crispy chicken and breakfast favorites. The chicken here balances flavor and texture perfectly, keeping regulars coming back week after week.
Local college students and families both appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and reasonable prices. It’s proof that great buffet food doesn’t require fancy surroundings, just quality ingredients and proper preparation.
6. Uptown Buffet – Norfolk
Norfolk’s Uptown Buffet brings international flair while keeping Southern classics front and center. Their fried chicken competes with Asian dishes, seafood, and Italian options, yet somehow manages to be a top choice among diners.
The variety here is truly impressive, with something for even the pickiest eaters in your group. Fresh chicken comes out in small batches to maintain quality and temperature.
Military families from nearby bases frequently visit, appreciating both the diversity and affordability. The modern, clean space makes dining comfortable.
If you want fried chicken alongside sushi or lo mein, this buffet delivers that perfect combination.
7. Teppanyaki Grill & Supreme Buffet – Henrico (Richmond area)
Richmond-area diners get the best of both worlds at this fusion buffet in Henrico. While teppanyaki grills sizzle with Asian specialties, the American section showcases Southern fried chicken that rivals any traditional restaurant.
Watch chefs prepare custom stir-fries while your table fills with chicken, crab legs, and sushi rolls. The spacious layout prevents crowding even during peak hours.
Families love the variety since everyone finds favorites regardless of taste preferences. Weekend dinners get busy, so arriving early ensures shorter wait times.
The combination of quality, quantity, and diverse options makes this buffet a Richmond-area treasure worth visiting repeatedly.
8. Crazy Buffet & Grill – Chesapeake
Don’t let the playful name fool you because this Chesapeake buffet takes food quality seriously. Their fried chicken achieves that perfect golden-brown color with seasoning that makes each bite memorable and satisfying.
The buffet stretches impressively long with Asian cuisine, American classics, and fresh seafood reflecting Chesapeake’s coastal location. Regulars know to hit the chicken station first before exploring other options.
The restaurant maintains cleanliness standards that exceed expectations for buffet dining. Affordable prices attract families, while the food quality brings them back regularly.
It’s become a local favorite for good reason, delivering consistent excellence every visit.
9. Buffet City – Chesapeake
Chesapeake’s Buffet City earns its name by offering an enormous selection that truly feels like a city of food. Fried chicken holds its own among hundreds of choices, prepared fresh throughout the day.
The sheer variety can be overwhelming in the best way possible, with multiple protein options and endless sides. Chicken lovers appreciate the consistent quality and generous portions available.
The restaurant accommodates large groups easily with spacious seating arrangements. Birthday parties and family reunions happen here frequently because everyone finds something they enjoy.
Value meets variety at this buffet, making it a smart choice for hungry diners of all ages.
10. Buffet City – Newport News
Newport News residents enjoy their own Buffet City location with the same commitment to variety and quality. The fried chicken here develops loyal fans who appreciate the crispy texture and well-balanced seasoning.
Military personnel from nearby installations frequently dine here, drawn by the generous portions and wallet-friendly prices. The buffet includes Chinese, Japanese, and American sections, ensuring nobody leaves hungry or disappointed.
Fresh batches of chicken appear regularly during busy periods. Clean facilities and attentive staff enhance the overall dining experience.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving comfort food, this buffet delivers satisfaction with every plate.
11. Cooper’s Restaurant & Lounge – Portsmouth
Portsmouth’s Cooper’s brings a touch of elegance to buffet dining with their restaurant and lounge combination. The fried chicken here receives special attention, resulting in pieces that look and taste restaurant-quality rather than typical buffet fare.
The lounge atmosphere creates a more sophisticated vibe than standard buffet restaurants, attracting date-night crowds alongside families. Soul food sides complement the chicken beautifully, offering authentic Southern flavors.
Weekend brunch brings additional breakfast items to the spread. Locals consider Cooper’s a hidden gem that deserves more recognition.
The combination of quality food and pleasant ambiance makes this spot stand out.
12. Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet – Roanoke
Roanoke’s Hibachi Grill combines live cooking entertainment with an extensive buffet selection. While hibachi chefs perform their knife skills, the fried chicken quietly steals the show with its addictive crunch and flavor.
The restaurant balances Asian specialties with American comfort foods, creating a menu that pleases diverse tastes. Families with children enjoy watching the hibachi preparation while adults appreciate the seafood options.
The chicken stays hot and fresh thanks to frequent replenishment. Reasonable prices make this buffet accessible for regular visits rather than just special occasions.
Roanoke residents know this spot delivers consistent quality worth the trip across town.
13. Choice Hibachi Buffet – Lynchburg
Lynchburg’s Choice Hibachi Buffet proves that smaller cities can compete with big-city dining options. Their fried chicken ranks among the best in the region, with perfectly seasoned breading that stays crispy bite after bite.
The hibachi grill offers custom-cooked meals while the buffet provides instant gratification for hungry diners. College students from nearby Liberty University frequent this spot for affordable, filling meals.
The restaurant maintains high cleanliness standards and friendly service. Sushi, Chinese dishes, and Southern favorites coexist peacefully on the buffet line.
It’s become a community gathering place where good food brings people together regularly throughout the week.
14. Ocean Grill Buffet – Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach’s Ocean Grill Buffet celebrates coastal living with seafood galore, but their fried chicken remains a surprising standout. Beachgoers appreciate the air-conditioned comfort and unlimited food after long days in the sun.
The buffet features crab legs, shrimp, and fish alongside traditional American dishes including that famous fried chicken. Tourists and locals mix freely in the dining room, united by their love of good food.
The location near the oceanfront makes it convenient for vacationers seeking variety beyond typical beach fare. Generous portions and fair prices keep customers satisfied.
This buffet proves that even in seafood territory, great fried chicken still reigns supreme.
