No.1 China Buffet

No.1 China Buffet, located at 1036 Henderson Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28540, USA, is a Chinese restaurant operating under the buffet model, offering an all-you-can-eat experience to its local customers. Based on recent reviews, the restaurant presents a complex picture with both positive and significant negative feedback regarding its food quality, service, and cleanliness.

One long-time customer shared memories of their initial positive experiences, recalling fresh food and friendly staff, particularly one lady who established a rapport with their family. This positive early impression led to them becoming regulars. A notable feature mentioned is the wide variety of food options available at the buffet, catering to different tastes. The customer also highlighted a specific dessert they enjoy, a chocolate/coffee cake. In terms of service, they noted that the staff generally checks on customers and that the familiar waitress often offers a small treat to their sister, which they appreciate. However, this same reviewer also pointed out a significant concern: the issue of food not being fresh, often described as stale, sticking to plates, or hard, especially the rice. They acknowledge that this is a common complaint in other reviews but also mention the possibility of requesting fresh food.

Despite their continued patronage, the long-time customer also raised serious concerns about the cleanliness of the establishment. While they personally haven't witnessed roaches or bugs in drinks, they acknowledge that other reviews have reported such issues and mentioned seeing mold. They emphasize the need for thorough cleaning if these allegations are true. On a more positive note, they indicated that seating is usually quick, with minimal wait times.

In stark contrast, a very recent review from February 5, 2025, paints a much more alarming picture. This customer visited the buffet approximately two hours before closing time and reported that the food was limited, hard, and stuck to the pans, leading to a negative first impression. More disturbingly, this reviewer and their friend's four-year-old daughter allegedly witnessed roaches crawling on the buffet area where the food is displayed. This prompted an immediate and disgusted departure from the restaurant without eating.

Upon speaking with the front staff member, identified as a white woman, the customer was told that the entire place had recently been "bombed and sprayed" for roaches. While the staff member was reportedly understanding and did not expect them to pay, the reviewer expressed significant concern that a business with a known roach problem, especially to the extent of needing professional pest control, should be closed until the issue is fully resolved, particularly in areas where food is served. This customer stated unequivocally that they would not return and urged others to consider this review when choosing a place to eat.

Considering these contrasting yet significant reviews, the features of No.1 China Buffet include a wide variety of buffet options, quick seating, and at least one staff member who is known for friendly and personalized service with regular customers. However, these potential positives are heavily overshadowed by serious concerns regarding food freshness, overall cleanliness (including reports of mold), and, most alarmingly, the presence of roaches in the food area, as reported by a recent customer. The fact that the restaurant had recently undergone pest control suggests that the management is aware of a pest issue, but the continued sighting of roaches in the buffet area is a major red flag for health and safety.

In terms of services, No.1 China Buffet operates as a self-serve buffet with waitstaff for drinks and table service. One reviewer mentioned generally attentive service from the staff (excluding one instance of rudeness), while another focused solely on the negative food and pest experience. There is no mention of takeout or delivery services in these reviews; the focus is entirely on the dine-in buffet experience.

The environment of No.1 China Buffet is not described in detail, but one long-time customer mentioned concerns about cleanliness, including mold, and the more recent review directly cited the presence of roaches on the food buffet. The discrepancy between the perceived friendliness of some staff and the alleged rudeness of others also contributes to a mixed impression of the overall atmosphere.

There is no promotional information provided in either of these reviews. Local users would need to check with the restaurant directly for any current specials or discounts.

In conclusion, No.1 China Buffet in Jacksonville, NC, presents a significant dilemma for potential local users. While it may offer a wide variety of food options and has had some positive feedback regarding certain staff members and quick seating, there are serious and recent allegations concerning food freshness and the presence of roaches in the buffet area. The acknowledgment from the restaurant staff that the premises had recently been treated for roaches further validates these concerns. Given the potential health risks associated with pest infestations in food service establishments, local users should exercise extreme caution and carefully consider the recent negative review alongside any positive experiences reported. It would be prudent to seek more up-to-date reviews or perhaps consider other Chinese restaurants in the Jacksonville area until No.1 China Buffet can demonstrably ensure a clean and pest-free environment and consistently fresh food.