Buffet searches surge 252% as Americans seek budget dining amid inflation

As Americans tighten their budgets and grow tired of menu prices, some are turning to a familiar, affordable option: buffets.

Last year, Yelp released its 2026 Trend Forecast and found that searches for “all-you-can-eat buffet near me” increased by 252%.

The data was collected between September 2024 and August 2025, compared to the previous year, and it’s not just traditional buffets that are growing in popularity.

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Asian cuisine drives much of this [buffet] revival,” according to Yelp.

“Searches for ‘Indian food stall near me’ have increased dramatically (up 459%), with classic dishes like chicken biryani (up 49%),” the report said.

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Ted Jenkin, managing partner of asset management firm Exit Wealth Advisors in Georgia, said interest in kiosks is directly linked to inflation and is “re-educating America in the search for value.”

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“When eggs are five dollars and burgers are $20, unlimited food for one fixed price starts to feel like financial genius,” he added.

Jenkin said buffet restaurants provide “tremendous” value, especially to families struggling to make ends meet.

One financial advisor told Fox News Digital that kiosks provide “tremendous” value to customers. (iStock)

“When restaurants quietly reduce portion sizes and raise prices, consumers take notice. At the buffet, no one is counting your fries and fried chicken—and that’s exactly the appeal.”

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How to eat smartly at a buffet?

A good rule of thumb for buffet dining is to fill half your plate with vegetables, says Whitney Stuart, a dietitian and owner of Whitness Nutrition.

The Texas expert recommends getting a quarter of the protein on your plate, while the other quarter can be whatever keeps you satisfied.

“Being selective rather than sampling everything can help reduce unconscious overeating.”

“Research consistently shows that starting with fiber-rich foods like lean protein and vegetables increases levels of satiety hormones like GLP-1 and PYY,” Stuart said.

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“This helps people naturally consume fewer calories, [and] This strategy can prevent repeated trips to the buffet, which often leads to increased intake without additional satisfaction.”

Other important guidelines are to reduce liquid calories, focus on water, and eat slowly to let your gut-brain connection register a fullness signal, Stuart said.

Experts say starting meals with protein- and fiber-rich foods can help patrons manage appetite and calorie intake at buffets. (iStock)

“Being selective rather than sampling everything can help reduce unconscious overeating,” he added.

“Remember, dessert doesn’t have to be automatic.”

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Stuart emphasized that buffets do not cause weight gain, mindless eating does.

“A protein- and fiber-first approach allows people to enjoy buffets while supporting blood sugar, digestion and overall health,” he concluded.

Buffet-style restaurants that offer customization give customers more control over ingredients and portion balance. (iStock)

Alon Laniado, founder of weight loss platform Fitmate Coach, advised that consumers should also be wary of sauces.

Sauces are “usually where the calories add up quickly,” the California-based expert told Fox News Digital.

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“Buffets that allow for customization, such as stew- or soup-based setups, give customers more control, allowing them to choose lighter broths, limit added fats, and rely more on spices and herbs for flavor.”