Unearth The Voyage
Florida’s restaurant scene offers some incredible all-you-can-eat experiences worth putting miles on your car. From seafood feasts in the Keys to authentic Amish cooking in Sarasota, these buffets elevate the concept beyond typical steam tables and warming lamps. Pack your appetite and gas up the car – these eight spectacular buffet destinations showcase the Sunshine State’s diverse culinary landscape at its most abundant.
1. Whale Harbor Seafood Buffet — Islamorada (Florida Keys)
Perched along the stunning Overseas Highway, this Keys landmark serves up ocean views almost as impressive as its seafood spread. The expansive buffet features a constantly refreshed raw bar where oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, and fresh-caught fish shine.
Hot stations offer everything from coconut shrimp to blackened mahi-mahi, while serious seafood lovers opt for the crab leg upgrade. The tropical setting enhances the experience – outdoor seating lets you watch fishing boats return with the day’s catch.
Families appreciate the kid-friendly options while seafood enthusiasts can focus on the maritime bounty. A quintessential Keys experience that combines fresh flavors with that laid-back island atmosphere.
2. Boston Lobster Feast — Orlando & Kissimmee
Red bibs and drawn butter define the experience at this Central Florida institution. Unlike typical buffets that skimp on premium items, whole Maine lobsters star as the main attraction here – ready for cracking at your table.
Beyond lobster, snow crab legs, prime rib carving stations, and a selection of fresh fish round out the offerings. The atmosphere skews old-school with nautical décor and no-nonsense service focused on keeping seafood stations brimming.
Located conveniently near Orlando’s tourist corridors, it provides a welcome break from theme park dining. The feast operates primarily as a dinner destination, though weekend lunches offer the same spectacular spread at slightly reduced prices.
3. Boma – Flavors of Africa (Buffet) — Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Orlando
Tucked inside Disney’s spectacular Animal Kingdom Lodge, this buffet transports diners to another continent without leaving Florida. Carved wooden details, dramatic lighting, and the scent of exotic spices create an immersive backdrop for culinary exploration.
The food stations represent various African regions with dishes rarely found elsewhere: Moroccan-spiced salmon, Durban curry chicken, and South African bobotie (a savory custard-topped dish). Even the soups – like coconut-curry seafood or peanut-vegetable – deliver complex flavor profiles.
No park ticket required makes this accessible to anyone seeking a unique dining experience. The breakfast buffet features both American classics and African-inspired morning fare, while dinner showcases the full range of continental specialties.
4. Cape May Café (Buffet) — Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Lake Buena Vista
Morning visitors find Minnie Mouse and friends dressed in beachwear at this charming New England-styled eatery. The breakfast spread features Mickey waffles, custom omelets, and pastries that delight both kids and adults seeking character interactions without the park crowds.
By evening, the space transforms into a seafood-focused buffet where crab legs, clambakes, and fresh fish take center stage. The bright, airy dining room with its coastal touches and nautical blues creates a refreshing atmosphere after a day of Florida heat.
Located within walking distance of EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance, Cape May provides convenient access for park-goers. The dessert section deserves special mention – their Oreo bon bons and seasonal bread puddings have developed cult followings among Disney regulars.
5. Der Dutchman — Sarasota (Pinecraft)
Hidden in Sarasota’s Pinecraft neighborhood – home to a thriving Amish and Mennonite community – this homestyle buffet offers authentic countryside cooking rarely found in Florida. The restaurant fills with both tourists and three-wheeled tricycles (the local Amish transportation of choice) during peak hours.
Golden fried chicken, tender roast beef, and real mashed potatoes form the backbone of the buffet. Seasonal vegetables, often sourced from nearby Amish farms, change with the growing calendar.
Save room for their legendary pie selection – the mile-high peanut butter cream and shoofly varieties have inspired many impromptu dessert purchases from their adjacent bakery. Cash registers close on Sundays, honoring the community’s religious traditions.
6. Fred’s Market (MarketTable™ Buffet) — Plant City, Lakeland & Riverview
Born from Florida’s agricultural heartland, Fred’s Market elevates country buffet dining with a genuine farm connection. Their signature MarketTable™ celebrates seasonal produce from nearby farms, creating a constantly evolving menu that reflects what’s growing locally.
Smoky pulled pork, crispy fried chicken, and tender pot roast anchor the meat selections. The vegetable offerings shine brightest – collard greens simmered with ham hocks, sweet potato casserole topped with pecans, and summer squash casserole that could convert any vegetable skeptic.
Originally started by strawberry farmers in Plant City, Fred’s maintains its agricultural roots while expanding to multiple locations. Their strawberry shortcake, available during berry season, showcases the region’s most famous crop in spectacular fashion.
7. Shinju Japanese Buffet — Miami & Davie (Broward)
Sushi lovers rejoice at this South Florida institution where endless rolls, sashimi, and nigiri form just the beginning of the Asian feast. The sleek, modern interior with dark wood accents and ambient lighting creates an upscale atmosphere not typically associated with all-you-can-eat dining.
Beyond the impressive sushi selection, hibachi stations feature chefs preparing made-to-order dishes with theatrical flair. Hot food sections offer Chinese, Thai, and Japanese classics from tempura to General Tso’s chicken.
The dessert area provides a sweet finale with green tea ice cream, mochi, and fresh fruit. Multiple locations throughout Miami-Dade and Broward counties have developed loyal followings, particularly among groups seeking variety without compromising on freshness.
8. Mikata Buffet Sushi & Hibachi — Jacksonville (Baymeadows)
Jacksonville’s newest buffet sensation occupies a completely transformed former seafood chain location. The renovation reveals nothing of the building’s past – now showcasing contemporary Asian design elements with waterfall features and elegant lighting.
The expansive buffet spans multiple cuisines with dedicated sections for hibachi, sushi, dim sum, and traditional Chinese favorites. Specialty stations include a noodle bar where chefs prepare ramen and udon to order, plus a Mongolian grill for custom stir-fry creations.
Despite being the newest entry on this list, Mikata has quickly established itself as Northeast Florida’s premier pan-Asian buffet. Weekend dinner service features additional premium items like snow crab legs and specialty maki rolls not available during weekday visits.
