There are many different flavours and sensations to be had when embarking on a culinary excursion in Durban, South Africa, and there's no better place to start than by visiting the greatest buffet restaurants in the area? Every taste and desire is catered to in Durban's buffet scene, which offers everything from colourful coastal cuisines to treats with worldwide influences. Whether you're a visitor keen to experience the city's varied culinary scene or a local looking for a hidden culinary gem, these best buffet restaurants offer a mouthwatering blend of flavour, atmosphere, and service that will leave you wanting more. Come along as we take you on a gourmet tour of some of Durban's best buffet locations, where each meal reveals a different aspect of the city's rich culinary and cultural legacy.
Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Buffet Restaurant in Durban
Dining in Durban offers a captivating journey through a fusion of flavors, reflecting the city's rich cultural tapestry and its status as a melting pot of diverse influences. Situated on the eastern coast of South Africa, Durban boasts a culinary landscape that celebrates its multicultural heritage, with influences from Zulu, Indian, British, and other African cultures blending seamlessly to create a unique dining experience.
1. Research Reviews: Start by checking online reviews for buffet restaurants in Durban. Look for positive feedback on food variety, quality, cleanliness, and service.
2. Cuisine and Variety: Consider your dietary preferences. Choose a restaurant with diverse offerings, including meat, seafood, vegetarian, and vegan options.
3. Quality and Freshness: Prioritize freshness. Check if the restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients and replenishes buffet stations frequently to maintain food quality.
4. Ambiance and Atmosphere: Assess the ambiance. Opt for a restaurant with a comfortable setting that suits your dining occasion, whether casual or upscale.
5. Value for Money: Evaluate pricing. Ensure the buffet's price aligns with the quality and variety of food offered. Look for promotions or discounts to enhance value, especially for larger groups.
By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision and choose the best buffet restaurant in Durban that meets your preferences and expectations.
10 Buffet Restaurants in Durban, South Africa
1. Centre Court
Located in the centre of South Africa, Centre Court is a veritable culinary paradise. The personnel will make you feel at home and provide exceptional customer service, going above and beyond to make sure you're happy. From the delectable bacon, egg, and cheese on rye toast to the flavorful beef stew, a variety of delectable delicacies are waiting for you, each expertly prepared to tempt your palate. Every meal at Centre Court becomes a special occasion because there's a manager who is constantly on hand to make sure you get the best possible dining experience. You will definitely want to come back, whether you're sipping on the amazing coffee or having a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
What Customers are Saying
"Great service from Lindani and wonderful manager kept checking on us. Food was lovely as always!!"- Zesipho Zeh
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: European
- Opening Times: 11am-9.30pm
- Address: Shop 301, Mezzanine floor of the Pavilion Shopping Centre, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
2. Galaxy Grill
Galaxy Grill provides a cosy eating space that is ideal for business gatherings or a peaceful break from the daily grind. There is a designated smoking area in the restaurant, which has received accolades for cleanliness and tranquilly. Galaxy Grill's attentive and helpful crew makes sure that every customer feels taken care of during their stay. The establishment is also kid-friendly, featuring a dedicated kids' section with a theatre and computer games to keep the younger guests occupied. The restaurant is well-known for its prompt service, which makes it the perfect choice for people looking for a casual meal.
What Customers are Saying
"Surprising good experience. Our first time back since we visited after it opened. The hostess was very friendly and inviting. Our waitress was efficient and the good was good. They have a great kids area with computer games and a theatre. We will definitely be back!" - Justin Duncan
Restaurant information
- Cuisine: American
- Opening Times: 10am-11pm
- Address: Pavilion, Jack Martens Dr, Westville, Durban, 3629, South Africa
3. Lingela Restaurant
The Southern Sun Elangeni Hotel is home to the renowned South African buffet, Lingela Restaurant. Even the most discriminating palates will be pleased by the interesting and delectable selection of culinary delicacies that are offered here. There is something for everyone, from the carvery to the curries. Vegetarian curries and pasta meals abound for people who would rather forego meat. Not only is the cuisine excellent, but the environment is kid- and family-friendly and the staff is responsive and kind. Lingela Restaurant is an ideal location for a special event or casual dining because of its ample variety and freshness. Come see it for yourself, then—what reason is there to not?
What Customers are Saying
"Celebrated my 15 wedding anniversary there. The food and service was great. Cool drinks were served fresh and cold. Prawns was delicious so was the roast beef. Great deserts especially the milk and pecan tarts. Chicken Tikka was very good with the naan bread. We spent more than 2.5 hrs. Bill was reasonable for 4 considering the variety." - Reagan Govender
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: Indian, Mediterranean
- Opening times: 6am-11pm
- Address: Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, 63 Snell Parade, North Beach, Durban, 4001, South Africa
4. Vigour & Verve Durban
Energy & Liveliness With its warm atmosphere and commitment to the great dining experience, Durban is one of South Africa's best places to eat. This restaurant is well-known for its outstanding service, cosy, spotless setting, and welcoming personnel. It creates a memorable ambiance that is both warm and inviting. You're in for a culinary treat whether you're a vegetarian relishing the highly regarded veg curry or a lover of the tender slowly cooked garlic lamb shank. The restaurant is the ideal place for special meals because of its prime beachfront location, which provides breathtaking views. The staff goes above and beyond with considerate touches like free birthday sweets to make special events truly memorable. It's well worth your visit to Vigour & Verve Durban, which is more than just a restaurant.
What Customers are Saying
"Great food and service. Ample parking available and a walk away from the ocean. They have vegetarian options on the menu. From pizza to the butter chicken is lovely, the meat basket is a good choice if you in the mood for something small and would pair great with a beer at the bar. I love the setup of the restaurant and the buffet breakfast is also a winner. The hotel and restaurant offers excellent quality of accommodation and food." - Lucrecia Swano
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Opening Times: 6.30am-10pm
- Address: Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, 63 Snell Parade, North Beach, Durban, 4001, South Africa
5. Riverside Grill Durban
Enjoy the delicious food and friendly service of Riverside Grill Durban. This restaurant, which is situated in a picturesque area of South Africa, serves a delicious menu that will please your appetite. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from the delicious pizza to the enticing curry with roti and rice. The attentive and amiable wait staff guarantees a pleasant eating experience by constantly providing outstanding service. The restaurant's exquisite décor and spotless cleanliness provide for a welcoming environment for customers. A remarkable dining experience is guaranteed at Riverside Grill Durban, whether you're organising a business lunch or a laid-back dinner.
What Customers are Saying
"Great food. Delicious breakfast buffet until 10. Amazing service and a beautiful chilled Riverside atmosphere." - Mohammed Moosa
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: Italian, Indian
- Opening Times: 6.30am-11pm
- Address: 10 Kenneth Kaunda Rd, Athlone, Durban North, 4063, South Africa
6. Kebabish Florida Road
Situated in the centre of South Africa, Kebabish Florida Road is a fantastic restaurant renowned for its excellent food and service. The location is spotless and well-maintained, offering a cosy dining experience. A pleasant ambiance is created by the restaurant's distinctive and revitalising decor, which improves the dining experience. The employees consistently receive praise for providing polite and attentive service. On Sundays, Kebabish Florida Road also has a delicious breakfast buffet that is worth checking out. This restaurant is a great place for adult parties. Discover the friendliness and warmth of Kebabish Florida Road while indulging in a unique culinary adventure.
What Customers are Saying
"Food is always good, been going to this restaurant for many years! Service is pleasant as well." - Sameena Allie
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: Indian
- Opening Times: 10am-10pm
- Address: 49 Florida Rd, Windermere, Berea, 4001, South Africa
7. Jeera
In South Africa, Jeera is a highly regarded restaurant known for its five-star cuisine and ambiance. The high tea experience is renowned for its wide selection of teas and fresh, exquisitely presented meals. The dining experience is enhanced by the chef's cordial greeting and thorough explanations of the dish. There's a great selection of English dishes and curries at the buffet, as well as a choice of pastries for dessert. It's also said that the restaurant has a nice atmosphere, which makes it a fantastic spot to relax and have a tasty dinner. With its flawlessly delicious menu that includes everything from masala chips to samosas, Jeera is a must-visit place for foodies.
What Customers are Saying
"Beautiful experience at the high tea. The chefs welcome the guests and inform you about what's being served. Lovely array of teas. You can doggie bag the items you don't end up eating. There is alot to eat with fresh ingredients."- Thorisha Pillay
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: English, Indian
- Opening Times: 6.30am-11am, 12.30pm-4pm, 6pm-10.30pm
- Address: Suncoast Towers, 20 Battery Beach Rd, Durban, 4001, South Africa
8. The Little India Restaurant
A hidden treasure that provides a real Indian eating experience is the Little India Restaurant in South Africa. From the creamy butter chicken curry to the tantalising prawn and chicken Breyani, the restaurant's menu is varied and offers a variety of delectable meals. Not to be overlooked is the vegetarian thali, which is a fantastic assortment of flavorful dishes that is highly suggested. The meal is prepared with meticulous attention to detail, so the rice and spices in the biryani, for example, are perfectly cooked. The restaurant is characterised as being roomy, tidy, and comfortable, and it has a lovely outside seating space. A lively environment is created by the cool, brilliant lighting. Clients have also remarked on how welcoming the proprietor and staff are. They serve alcohol, albeit their wine collection isn't very extensive. Little India is a spot that's well worth a visit if you're searching for excellent food at reasonable costs with a warm atmosphere.
What Customers are Saying
"This little gem of a place has amazing food..... But it starts off great from the time of making the reservation! The kindness when you call, to receiving a call on the day you will be going to the restaurant..... A warm welcome on arrival..... Lovely waiters and waitresses including uncle Jaya and the other lovely people. They go out of their way to check on you, making sure your meals arrive timeously.... The food is amazing.... And the desserts are heavenly...... And if you have a special event, like my mom celebrated her 60th a while ago, they went out of their way to make it memorable with a lovely dessert!! And upon leaving you are thanked for your support..... If you looking for a good Indian meal, please go to Little India in Musgrave!! Their Thalis are delicious, and curries are phenomenal" - Natisha Dukhi
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: Indian
- Opening Times: 10am-10pm
- Address: 155 Musgrave Road Musgrave, Berea, 18689, Durban, South Africa
9. The Address Halaal dining
Nestled in the heart of South Africa, The Address Halaal Dining is an outstanding restaurant that offers a wide selection of mouthwatering delicacies that entice the senses. The proprietor is renowned for his gracious hospitality, going above and above to make tailored suggestions that take into account the individual tastes of each visitor. The restaurant offers a delicious and adaptable menu, and it takes pleasure in its Halaal cuisine. The food is what really draws people in, even though the atmosphere has a certain easygoing appeal. The restaurant's dedication to quality and flavour is evident in every dish, from the delicious pasta to the delicate steak and luscious prawns. You're enjoying a gourmet experience at The Address Halaal Dining, not simply a meal.
What Customers are Saying
"The owner is hands on, service was excellent. Food was served on time, no waiting. Lahori kebab and Coimbra chicken was our order, enjoyed it thoroughly. This restaurant is highly recommended." - Mobeen Khan
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: Italian
- Opening Times: 10.30am-9pm
- Address: 101 Innes Rd, Morningside, Durban, 4001, South Africa
10. Zai Restaurant Durban
In Durban, Zai Restaurant is a beautiful restaurant that provides an amazing gastronomic experience. Zai is a culinary enthusiast's paradise, known for its delicious meals and selection of cool beverages. The restaurant is well-known for its substantial and reasonably priced breakfast buffet, which is a weekend favourite. A selection of hot and cold breakfast options are available at the buffet, along with unlimited juice or mimosas for additional refreshment. At Zai, you'll find a warm, inviting atmosphere along with visually appealing, modern interior design. The restaurant's open kitchen design lets customers see the chefs at work and their magic. The restaurant's menu demonstrates how well-prepared its food is.
What Customers are Saying
"The food was sooo delicious. They have big servings which are great value for money. Nice and cozy place to chill."- Hlengiwe Mabaso
Restaurant Information
- Cuisine: Argentinian
- Opening Times: 8am-2am
- Address: 50 Campbell Ave, Morningside, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Conclusion
Finally, with their mouthwatering variety of tastes, textures, and experiences, Durban's buffet restaurants are lively centres of culinary brilliance. These restaurants elegantly and deftly satisfy every palate, whether it's with the delectable fresh seafood of the coast, the fragrant spices of Indian food, or the hearty comforts of classic South African fare. The memories of decadent feasts had with loved ones among the vibrant atmosphere of these top buffet places will remain as you wave farewell to the busy streets of Durban, giving a lasting image of the city's exceptional culinary diversity and warmth. Durban's buffet scene welcomes you with open arms if you're looking for an exceptional eating experience, allowing you to enjoy the diverse range of flavours that characterise this energetic coastal city.
Frequently Asked Questions about Buffet Restaurants in Durban
Q: What types of cuisine are typically offered at these restaurants in Durban?
A: Buffet restaurants in Durban often feature a diverse range of cuisines, including traditional South African dishes like bobotie and bunny chow, as well as Indian-inspired curries, seafood specialties, and international favorites like pasta, salads, and desserts.
Q: Do these restaurants in Durban cater to dietary restrictions?
A: Yes, many buffet restaurants in Durban offer options for vegetarians, vegans, and individuals with dietary restrictions or food allergies. It’s advisable to inform the staff about your dietary needs beforehand so they can guide you to suitable options.
Q: How much does it typically cost to dine at a buffet restaurant in Durban?
A: The cost of dining at a buffet restaurant in Durban can vary depending on factors such as the restaurant’s reputation, location, and the time of day (lunch vs. dinner). On average, expect to pay between R150 to R300 per person for a buffet meal.
Q: Are reservations required?
A: Reservations are not always required, but they are recommended, especially during peak dining hours or for larger groups. Making a reservation ensures that you secure a table and can avoid waiting in line.
Q: Are children typically charged the same price as adults these restaurants?
A: Many buffet restaurants in Durban offer discounted rates for children, with pricing usually based on age brackets (e.g., children under 5 eat free, children aged 6-12 at half price). It’s best to inquire about children’s pricing when making a reservation or upon arrival.
Q: Can I take leftovers home?
A: Most buffet restaurants in Durban do not allow customers to take leftovers home due to health and safety regulations. However, some may offer takeout containers for desserts or other items upon request.
Q: Do buffet restaurants in Durban have options for special occasions or group events?
A: Yes, many buffet restaurants in Durban offer special packages for group events such as birthdays, weddings, or corporate functions. These packages often include customized menus, private dining areas, and dedicated staff to cater to the group’s needs.
Q: Is there a dress code for dining at any of these restaurants?
A: Dress codes vary depending on the restaurant. While some buffet restaurants in Durban may have a casual dress code, others may require smart casual attire, especially for dinner service. It’s best to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm their dress code policy.
Q: Are there any cultural or etiquette norms to be aware of when dining at these restaurants?
A: It’s customary to use serving utensils provided to dish out food rather than using your hands. Additionally, it’s polite to take only what you can eat to minimize food waste, and to wait your turn in line without cutting ahead of others.
About Dinesurf
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