7 Ohio Buffets That Are Actually Worth the Visit

7 Ohio Buffets That Are Actually Worth the Visit

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PhillyBite10OHIO - Ohio is the heart of the "comfort food belt," and it takes its all-you-can-eat culture seriously. Forget the generic chains; Ohio's best buffets are about deep-rooted tradition, massive casino spreads, and some of the best German and Amish-style cooking in the country.

If you're ready to tackle a culinary marathon in the Buckeye State, here are 7 spots that justify the detour.

1. Schmidt's Sausage Haus (Columbus)

Located in the heart of the historic German Village, the "Autobahn" Buffet at Schmidt's is a rite of passage. Since 1886, they've been serving up authentic German fare. This is where you go for unlimited bratwurst, Bahama Mamas, sauerkraut, and German potato salad.



  • The Vibe: Old-world charm with live accordion music and a bustling, festive atmosphere.
  • Don't Miss: The Jumbo Cream Puffs. While the buffet isn't "unlimited" (usually an add-on), your meal isn't complete without one.

2. Der Dutchman (Bellville/Walnut Creek)

For the ultimate Amish Country experience, Der Dutchman is the gold standard. Their barn-raiser buffet features "broasted" chicken that locals swear by, real mashed potatoes, and homemade noodles that have never seen a grocery store shelf.

  • The Vibe: Serene, sprawling, and perfect for families.
  • Don't Miss: The Breakfast Buffet. It's a mountain of fried mush, biscuits with thick sausage gravy, and fruit slush.

3. The Buffet at MGM Northfield Park (Northfield)

If you want the "Las Vegas" style buffet experience in the Midwest, this is it. It's one of the most modern and upscale buffets in the state, featuring over 60 items daily and six live-action cooking stations.



  • The Vibe: Sleek, high-energy, and modern.
  • Don't Miss: The Friday & Saturday Seafood Dinner. It features crab legs and prime rib that actually rival the major casino spreads out West.

4. Das Dutchman Essenhaus (Middlebury/Wilmot area)

Located in the heart of Ohio's Amish country, this spot is a destination for "slow food" enthusiasts. They take pride in their heritage, serving up bottomless bowls of dressing (stuffing), roast beef, and some of the best pies in the Midwest.

  • The Vibe: Traditional and incredibly wholesome.
  • Don't Miss: The Homemade Apple Butter and the thick-cut noodles.

5. Rodizio Grill (Columbus/Cincinnati)

For the meat-centric crowd, this Brazilian Steakhouse offers a "Full Rodizio" that is a masterclass in gluttony. Gauchos circle the room with skewers of fire-roasted meats, while the salad bar features over 30 items, including authentic Brazilian black bean stew (Feijoada).



  • The Vibe: Upmarket and lively—perfect for a "fancy" all-you-can-eat night out.
  • Don't Miss: The Glazed Pineapple—it's grilled with cinnamon and sugar and acts as the perfect palate cleanser between meat courses.

6. Hartville Kitchen (Hartville)

This isn't just a restaurant; it's a 435-seat massive dining room attached to a giant hardware store and flea market. While they offer à la carte, their special-event buffets and family-style "all-you-can-eat" options are legendary for their quality.

  • The Vibe: Classic Ohio—shopping, community, and comfort.
  • Don't Miss: The Salad Dressing. Their sweet-and-sour dressing is so famous that they sell it by the bottle in the gift shop.

7. Burntwood Tavern (Various Locations - Weekend Brunch)

While known for its regular menu, Burntwood Tavern's Weekend Brunch Buffet has become a modern Ohio staple. It bridges the gap between a "greasy spoon" and a high-end hotel brunch, offering everything from smoked salmon to custom omelets.

  • The Vibe: Rustic-chic with reclaimed wood and a relaxed Sunday morning feel.
  • Don't Miss: The Bread Pudding and the build-your-own Bloody Mary bar (not part of the food price, but a must-try).

Pro-Tips for the Ohio Buffet Scene:

  • The "Broasted" Secret: In Ohio, if a buffet says "Broasted Chicken," it means it's pressure-fried. This makes it juicier and less greasy than standard fried chicken. Always prioritize it.
  • Timing is Everything: Many Amish-run buffets (like Der Dutchman) are closed on Sundays. Plan your road trip for a Friday or Saturday to catch the full dinner spreads.
  • Early Bird Special: Most Ohio buffets see a massive rush right after Church services on Sundays (for those that are open) and around 5:00 PM for dinner. Go at 4:00 PM to beat the crowds and get the freshest food.

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