China Buffet

China Buffet is a Chinese restaurant located at 1331 3rd Ave SW in Forest Lake, Minnesota. As a local establishment within the Chinese Restaurant category, it offers a buffet-style dining experience with a wide array of Chinese culinary options. Customers can contact them at (651) 464-4339 or +1 651-464-4339 for inquiries. Recent customer reviews provide insights into the restaurant's offerings, pricing, environment, and service, particularly concerning the buffet operation.

One customer who visited on December 11, 2024, around 11:30 am, noted that China Buffet offers a "large selection" of food items. This suggests that the buffet aims to provide a diverse range of dishes to cater to various preferences. However, this reviewer also mentioned that the price was "more expensive than what we are used to," indicating that the cost might be a consideration for some diners accustomed to other buffet options in the area. This suggests that while the selection is ample, the pricing might be perceived as being on the higher end.

Regarding the food itself, the same reviewer commented that "most selections could have been warmer." This is a significant aspect of buffet dining, as the temperature of the food directly impacts its taste and safety. Feedback suggesting that the food was not sufficiently warm could be a concern for potential customers who prioritize hot and freshly prepared dishes. However, the reviewer did specifically mention the egg drop soup, noting that it had a "rich flavor," indicating that some items might be well-received in terms of taste.

The environment of China Buffet was also touched upon in the review. The customer noted that it was "not warm in the building," which was particularly noticeable on a "single digit windy, snowy day." This suggests that the heating within the restaurant might be inadequate during colder weather, potentially affecting the comfort of diners. However, the reviewer did find the eating area to be "clean," which is a positive aspect of the environment.

The restroom facilities were described as "plain" but "mostly clean," indicating a basic level of maintenance and hygiene. While not a highlight, the cleanliness of the restrooms is an important factor for overall customer satisfaction.

Another customer shared a less positive experience related to the buffet service towards the end of the operating hours. This review stated that the restaurant stopped bringing out food at 7 pm, even though the closing time was 9 pm. This practice could be disappointing for customers arriving later in the evening, as the selection might become limited. The reviewer further noted that the dessert section was "completely empty" and that the buffet ran out of noodles and all kinds of chicken, including popular options like General Tso's chicken.

When this customer inquired about whether more food would be brought out, they reported that the owner explicitly said "no." This indicates a policy of not replenishing the buffet in the hours leading up to closing, which could significantly impact the dining experience for latecomers. The lack of key items like noodles and chicken, coupled with an empty dessert section, suggests a considerable reduction in the available options well before the advertised closing time. This could lead to dissatisfaction and a feeling of not getting the full value of the buffet.

The phrase "Big yikes" used by the reviewer underscores their negative reaction to this experience, particularly the owner's refusal to replenish the food. This suggests a potential issue with the restaurant's service and management of the buffet during its later hours of operation.

Based on these reviews, China Buffet offers a large selection of food, but potential customers should be aware of a few factors. The price might be higher compared to other buffet options. The temperature of some food items might not be sufficiently warm. The building's heating could be an issue during cold weather. Additionally, there seems to be a significant limitation on food replenishment in the hours leading up to the 9 pm closing time, potentially resulting in a reduced selection and empty food stations for later diners.

Information regarding specific promotional offers or discounts is not available in the provided reviews. Customers interested in knowing about any special deals, senior discounts, or other promotions would need to contact China Buffet directly using the provided phone numbers. Similarly, details about the overall ambiance, decor, or any unique features of the restaurant beyond the buffet style are not mentioned in these reviews.

In conclusion, China Buffet in Forest Lake, MN, is a Chinese restaurant offering a buffet with a large selection of dishes. However, potential diners should consider the feedback regarding potentially higher prices, issues with food temperature and building warmth, and the practice of not replenishing the buffet in the hours before closing, which can lead to limited options. While one reviewer noted the rich flavor of the egg drop soup and the cleanliness of the eating area and restrooms, the more critical feedback regarding food availability and temperature, especially for later diners, warrants consideration. Customers seeking a late dinner buffet might find the experience at China Buffet to be less than satisfactory based on the provided reviews.