A Rebirth Amidst Inflation
After a prolonged hiatus induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, all-you-can-eat buffets are making a triumphant return to the dining scene. Despite facing setbacks and closures during the pandemic, popular buffet chains like Golden Corral, Cicis, and Pizza Ranch are experiencing a resurgence in foot traffic, signaling a renewed interest in buffet-style dining. According to data from Placer.ai, foot traffic at these top three buffet chains in the US surged by 125% in March compared to January 2021, reflecting a notable uptick in consumer demand.
Overcoming Pandemic Challenges
The pandemic dealt a severe blow to the buffet industry, forcing many establishments to close their doors or operate at reduced capacity to comply with health and safety regulations. However, with society gradually reopening and pandemic-related restrictions easing, buffets are once again becoming sought-after dining destinations. Golden Corral, boasting approximately 400 locations across the US, reported a 14% increase in sales for 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. CEO Lance Trenary attributed this resurgence to overwhelming customer demand for the return of the beloved all-you-can-eat buffet experience.
A Haven in the Face of Inflation
As inflation drives up prices across various sectors, consumers are increasingly turning to all-you-can-eat buffets as a budget-friendly dining option. With restaurant prices on the rise, buffet-style dining offers patrons the opportunity to enjoy a wide array of dishes at a fixed price, providing excellent value for money. Golden Corral’s commitment to maintaining affordability while preserving the quality and variety of buffet options has resonated with diners seeking cost-effective dining alternatives amidst economic uncertainty.
Buffet Chains Weathering the Storm
While some buffet chains succumbed to the financial strain of the pandemic, others have managed to weather the storm and are experiencing a resurgence in sales. Despite filing for bankruptcy in 2021, Texas-based Cicis reported a 10.4% increase in sales for 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. President Jeff Hetsel attributes this growth to the resurgence of in-person dining and the addition of enhanced amenities such as larger game rooms to attract patrons.
The Return of Buffet Dining
The revival of all-you-can-eat buffets marks a significant milestone in the recovery of the restaurant industry. However, the question of whether to tip staff at buffet restaurants remains a topic of debate. As buffets reclaim their status as popular dining destinations, their resurgence serves as a testament to the resilience of the dining industry and the enduring appeal of communal dining experiences.
If you have a buffet-related story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to Alex Bitter at abitter@insider.com or via text/encrypted messaging app Signal at (808) 854-4501.
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