Originally published: 6/7/2016 | 10:09am
So, it's been some time since my last post dedicated to reflecting on culture. With peak travel times coming up, I chose to focus on vacations and travel for a few posts. However, something that I've found to be very important to American culture is all-you-can-eat buffets and I just have to write about it! I am a buffet-goer; so much, in fact, that I have some tips for making the most of your buffet eating experience. I have shared these tips with friends and family, and now I'll share them with you.
Tip #1: Choose Your Buffet Carefully
Some buffets have better selections and overall better food than others. Feel free to ask around or search online for reviews of various buffets in the area you are currently located if you are unfamiliar with the food and the area. I highly suggest casino buffets if you are able to get to a casino. Most generally have good food and there's always something to do either before or after you eat (just be careful not to spend all of your money).
Tip #2: Know Buffet Serving Times and Menus
A good way to make the most of your buffet eating experience is knowing what meals (breakfast/brunch, lunch, dinner) will be served. Some buffets serve completely different menus at each serving time and prices will likely change as well. Other buffets (like Golden Corral) may serve all meals throughout the entire day. While you may not always be able to find the menu online, I suggest calling the restaurant and requesting menu information for when you plan to go eat. You should be able to get this information because they are a business and want you to come spend money there.
Tip #3: Have a Game Plan
This is the most crucial tip (and the longest!). In order to maximize your enjoyment of the available food, you need to come up with a game plan. Once you have placed your drink orders, it is time to get food. However, don't start filling up your plate right away. Take a good look around the buffet first so that you can decide what foods you want to eat while you are there. Then, decide how many "rounds" or "trips" you will need to take to the food service area to ensure that you get to try all that you want. Portion control is necessary for a successful eating experience, so try not to get too much of each food item so that you can try them all. Also, I find it helpful to minimize beverage consumption during your mealtime. Drinking to much liquid will cause you to feel fuller at a faster rate. Therefore, you may not get to eat those tempting and delicious desserts. Let's be honest, nobody really wants to miss dessert at a buffet!
There you have it! Three simple tips to make the most of your all-you-can-eat buffet dining experience. While there is no guarantee this will be a good plan for you to follow, it never hurts to try it out. Generally, these are not steps people that take part in American culture often follow. These tips can be of some help though. Remember, you know what your food limit is better than anyone else. The tips I gave are great for someone who often finds themselves disappointed that they didn't get certain food items at the buffet because they were too full to continue eating. Don't let your eyes be bigger than your stomach my friends! Happy eating!
Feel free to leave comments below, tweet (@KimiThoughts), or leave a post/message on Facebook (@KimisTravelThoughts) and share your buffet tips or buffets you enjoy eating at!
