Buffet Me

I recently had the opportunity to go to an exclusive buffet for free due to a marketing promotion. The price is usually $30 per person and we rarely splurge in the entertainment department so the likelihood of us going at our own expense was nil. I typically am not fond of buffet restaurants, but my curiosity was peaked because I'd heard such great reviews about the offerings at this one.
One reason I don't care for all-you-can eat establishments is because the food quality tends to be poorer than when food is made to order and served in reasonable portions. The food is often not as hot and gets dried out because it sits under heat lamps until someone comes along. I'm also of the opinion that any restaurant where you have to "get" your own food is "fast food". I don't mind fast food now and then but it's so much nicer to be waited on.

Buffets are also prime hangouts for people with runaway appetites and if you read "The Balance", well, you know how I feel about that. The "this place isn't going to make any money on me" dialogue isn't flattering. I noticed a sign at the entrance saying diners were limited to 1 1/2 hours of eating. Wow, that is a long time when you don't have to wait for food to be ordered, prepared or served.

Buffets are nice for families or groups who are challenged to find an establishment that can offer all the varying types of food that everyone will enjoy.  My children are still young and their appetites somewhat limited but I may be more interested in buffets when they reach adolescence and begin eating bigger portions!

Another reason that buffets are a lousy option for me is that I simply refuse to eat food in the quantities that would make this dining a reasonable purchase. One plate of food for me is plenty--remember I'm fairly short. At least in a regular restaurant if I can't finish my portion I am free to take it with me. There is more waste at buffets too. Apt to try foods that have never been tried or just disappointed with old favorites, plates are set aside with food still on them and new plates are filled.

With all these opinions firmly rooted, I embarked upon this buffet with interest. I took a sampling of protein, vegetables and carbs and in the end my favorites were the BBQ ribs and grilled shrimp skewers. I think this rather comical because these are foods that I do not buy, prepare or order often. I guess my tastebuds appreciated the change.

For dessert I was thrilled to find a grand selection of fruit including whole strawberries! No dark chocolate, but maybe that was expecting too much.

I left feeling comfortably full, grateful for the experience but just as reassured as ever that this dining option is not my favorite.