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5 Best Buffet Restaurants in Edinburgh
Buffets are a food lover’s battleground, where our eyes are often bigger than our stomachs, and the struggle between restraint and indulgence unfolds. It’s good to know that Edinburgh offers several delectable buffet dining experiences.
These restaurants aren’t just about piling plates high; they’re about savouring the artistry of food. From traditional fare to international flavours, join us as we embark on a quest to discover the best buffet restaurants that the city has to offer.
1. COSMO
![COSMO's Homepage](http://127.0.0.1/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/COSMOs-Homepage-1024x464.jpg)
Known For: Carvery Buffet, Continental, Desserts, Drinks, House of Spice, Teppanyaki, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, British
Website: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/edinburgh
Address: Omni, Omni Centre, Greenside Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3AA, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 131 557 0808
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Thurs: 4:30 PM–9:30 PM
- Friday: 4:30 PM–10 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM–10 PM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM–9:30 PM
Google reviews score | 4.3/5 |
Tripadvisor reviews score | 4/5 |
Score consistency | 4.8/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.5/5 |
Buffet Selection | 5/5 |
→Quality | 5/5 |
→Variety | 5/5 |
Restaurant Staff | 5/5 |
Prices (A higher score means better value) | 4/5 |
Ambiance | 4/5 |
Pros
- Received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence three times
- Has disabled access
- Known for their Indian and Chinese selections
- Must try chicken tikka, curry, and sweet and sour chicken
- Cooks in small batches to ensure freshness
Cons
- Hygiene issues
- Charge for infants
- 3% discretionary service charge
We started with a visit to COSMO, a buffet restaurant that has been open for two decades. One of its achievements was receiving TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018.
Stepping into the restaurant, we were pleased to note that it’s equipped with disabled access, ensuring inclusivity for all.
I decided to kick off my feast with some Indian cuisine, a specialty at COSMO. The aroma of spices and freshly grilled chicken tikka wafted through the air as I walked near the buffet table.
The chicken tikka, marinated to perfection in spices and yoghurt, was tender and flavorful. A plate of fragrant curry, accompanied by perfectly cooked rice and fluffy naan, was also a comforting delight.
Next, I ventured into the realm of Chinese cuisine – their Chinese buffet featured a tempting array of dishes, from delectable dim sum to savoury stir-fries. The sweet and sour chicken I tried was sweet, tangy, and delicious.
One noteworthy aspect was COSMO’s commitment to freshness. They cook their food in small batches to ensure that every dish is freshly prepared.
However, there were a few cons to my experience. I couldn’t help but notice that the restaurant’s hygiene had declined, with sticky buffet utensils that seemed overdue for a thorough cleaning.
Additionally, there was a minor charge of £2.99 for infants under five, a deviation from the norm where such young diners are often complimentary.
Lastly, a discretionary service charge of 3% was automatically applied to our bill.
2. Mr Basrai’s World Cuisines
![Mr Basrai's World Cuisines' Homepage](http://127.0.0.1/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Mr-Basrais-World-Cuisines-Homepage-1024x467.jpg)
Known For: European, Japanese, Italian, Chinese, Mexican, American, Indian, British, Continental, Carvery, Noodle Bar, Chargrill, Sushi, Cakes, Puddings, Cocktails
Website: https://www.mrbasraiedinburgh.com/
Address: 7, Fountain Park, 130 Dundee St, Edinburgh EH11 1AF, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 131 629 3400
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Thurs: 12:30 PM–3 PM, 5 PM–10 PM
- Friday: 12:30 PM–3 PM, 5 PM–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 12:30 PM–4 PM, 4:30 PM–10:30 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM–10 PM
Google reviews score | 4.2/5 |
Tripadvisor reviews score | 4/5 |
Score consistency | 5/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.5/5 |
Buffet Selection | 4.5/5 |
→Quality | 4/5 |
→Variety | 5/5 |
Restaurant Staff | 4/5 |
Prices (A higher score means better value) | 5/5 |
Ambiance | 4.5/5 |
Pros
- Spacious and well-lit, with themed rooms
- Great pizza section
- Decent sushi selection
- Delicious chicken risotto
- Free Wi-Fi and free 4-hour parking
- Kids are half-priced and 3 years and under are free
Cons
- Cold food
- Bland Indian cuisine
Next, we decided to visit Mr Basrai’s World Cuisines – spacious and well-lit, with quaint themed rooms. As we explored the buffet offerings, we were pleasantly surprised by the diverse selection.
The pizza section – a big hit with children – provided a delightful departure from the usual buffet fare. The crispy crust and fresh toppings made for a satisfying slice.
I then ventured to the sushi bar, where I was treated to an assortment of rolls. The sushi was surprisingly fresh and flavorful, which I appreciated.
One dish that truly stood out was the chicken risotto. The creamy texture, combined with perfectly cooked rice and tender chicken, left a lasting impression.
We were able to stay connected while we dined due to the restaurant’s complimentary WiFi service, allowing us to document and share our experiences online.
For those with vehicles, they offer free parking for up to 4 hours, providing a stress-free experience for diners. Plus, they have disabled access, making it inclusive and accessible to all patrons.
We were happy that families are well catered to, with kids 10 years and under enjoying a half-price offer and infants aged 3 years and under dining for free.
However, not all aspects lived up to expectations. Some of the buffet items were disappointingly cold, and the hot section lacked the necessary warmth to keep dishes at their best.
The most significant letdown was the Indian cuisine. Unfortunately, it lacked the essential seasoning, leaving the dishes bland and unmemorable.
3. China Red
![China Red's Homepage](http://127.0.0.1/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/China-Reds-Homepage-1024x458.jpg)
Known For: Chinese Food, Dim Sum, Teppanyaki, Curry, Spare Ribs
Website: https://chinaredbuffet.co.uk/
Address: 30 Grindlay St, Edinburgh EH3 9AP, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 131 228 8688
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 12:30 PM–3 PM, 5 PM–10 PM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM–9:30 PM
Google reviews score | 4.4/5 |
Tripadvisor reviews score | 4.5/5 |
Score consistency | 5/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.7/5 |
Buffet Selection | 4.5/5 |
→Quality | 5/5 |
→Variety | 4/5 |
Restaurant Staff | 3/5 |
Prices (A higher score means better value) | 4/5 |
Ambiance | 4/5 |
Pros
- Award-winning buffet restaurant
- Stylish contemporary decor
- Over 100 dishes on their buffet
- Has vegetarian offerings
- Must try dim sum and curry dishes
Cons
- Rude server
- Lack of cleanliness
- No free parking
We also tried China Red, which earned the title of 2019’s Best Chinese Restaurant by Edinburgh News and Restaurant Guru. This accolade immediately sets high expectations, which the restaurant aims to meet.
Upon entering, we were struck by the stylish contemporary decor. The ambiance is modern and inviting, creating a pleasant dining atmosphere.
China Red boasts an impressive array of over 100 dishes on its buffet. The diverse selection ensures that every diner can find something to suit their palate.
For vegetarian diners, the restaurant offers a variety of mushroom-based dishes that are both creative and flavorful. It’s great to see such attention to vegetarian cuisine.
We thought the dim sum at China Red was a true highlight. These bite-sized treats are not only visually appealing but also quite tasty – definitely a must-try.
The curry dishes are also a treat for curry lovers. Rich, aromatic, and full of depth, we think they’re a great addition to the menu.
Unfortunately, my experience was marred by an unpleasant encounter with an employee at the grill station. An elderly Chinese woman assigned to this station was undeniably rude, and I was left feeling humiliated in front of other customers.
We also noticed cleanliness issues during our visit. The floors were sticky, and some of the tables were dirty, which detracted from the overall dining experience.
Unlike some other establishments, China Red does not offer free parking. This additional cost can be inconvenient, particularly for those who expect complimentary parking when dining out.
4. Yes Sushi
![Yes Sushi's Homepage](http://127.0.0.1/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Yes-Sushis-Homepage-1024x420.jpg)
Known For: Sushi, Beef, Lamb, Signature Cocktails
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Yessushi89
Address: 31-33 Nicolson Square, Edinburgh EH8 9BX, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 131 667 4035
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Google reviews score | 4.2/5 |
Facebook reviews score | 4.8/5 |
Score consistency | 4.6/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.5/5 |
Buffet Selection | 4.5/5 |
→Quality | 5/5 |
→Variety | 4/5 |
Restaurant Staff | 5/5 |
Prices (A higher score means better value) | 4/5 |
Ambiance | 4/5 |
Pros
- 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle
- Wide sushi selection
- Offers vegetarian and gluten-free choices
- Has a signature cocktail menu
- Must try salmon and avocado maki
- Delicious strawberry cheesecake mochi
- Outdoor seating
Cons
- Slow service
- A bit cramped
- A tad pricier
We also tried Yes Sushi. Its close proximity to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, only a 10-minute walk away, made it a convenient choice for tourists looking for a quick and delicious meal.
The restaurant’s all-you-can-eat sushi buffet offered an extensive selection of options. They also cater to various dietary preferences with its vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free choices.
Their scrumptious salmon and avocado maki stood out as highlights of the meal. It featured fresh, buttery salmon and creamy avocado, expertly rolled in perfectly seasoned rice and seaweed.
We also thought their strawberry cheesecake mochi was awesome. The dish was a delectable combination of creamy cheesecake filling encased in a soft, chewy rice cake exterior.
Unlike other buffet places, Yes Sushi also boasts a unique signature cocktail menu, providing a diverse range of beverages to complement the dining experience.
Additionally, the availability of outdoor seating added a pleasant touch, allowing diners to enjoy their meal al fresco. Sitting outside would be ideal on a lovely day.
However, our dining experience was marred by the slow and inattentive service, which significantly detracted from the overall enjoyment of the meal.
Furthermore, the restaurant’s interior felt a bit cramped compared to other buffet places, limiting our comfort level a bit.
While the maki buffet was delicious, it came at a relatively higher price point, costing £22.99.
5. Beijing Banquet
![Beijing Banquet's Homepage](http://127.0.0.1/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Beijing-Banquets-Homepage-1024x467.jpg)
Known For: Chinese, Pan-Asian, Noodles, Sushi, Italian, Soup
Website: https://beijingbanquet.com/
Address: 1 Sighthill Ct, Edinburgh EH11 4BW, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 131 466 8886
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 12 PM–4 PM, 5–9:30 PM
Google reviews score | 4.4/5 |
Tripadvisor reviews score | 4/5 |
Score consistency | 4.8/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.5/5 |
Buffet Selection | 4/5 |
→Quality | 4/5 |
→Variety | 4/5 |
Restaurant Staff | 3/5 |
Prices (A higher score means better value) | 4/5 |
Ambiance | 4/5 |
Pros
- Owned by restaurateurs who own Taste of China
- Clean and modern interior
- Karaoke section
- Free parking
- Great chow mein and salt and pepper wings
- Delicious almond cake dessert
Cons
- Cold food
- Chaotic atmosphere
- Comparatively expensive
Beijing Banquet is another top-notch buffet restaurant. We learned that its founders, Rui and Susan Lin, had already made a name for themselves with the celebrated Taste of China restaurant in Coatbridge.
Right off the bat, we appreciate the restaurant’s clean and modern wood-forward aesthetic, adorned with unique lighting pieces and calming decor.
What sets them apart is the separate karaoke section they offer, which adds an element of entertainment to the evening. It’s a perfect setting for families, and the convenience of free parking adds to the appeal.
In terms of their buffet offerings, we couldn’t get enough of their salt and pepper chicken wings. We loved their crispy exterior and balanced seasoning.
Their specialty, chow mein, was also packed with flavour. It was perfectly savoury with a rich and clean umami taste.
Lastly, their almond cake dessert was nothing short of delicious – the perfect sweet ending to our lovely meal.
However, some of the starters I tried were disappointingly cold, which was a letdown given the otherwise yummy food. We hope this was an isolated incident.
We also witnessed an unsettling situation where staff members were seen running about and shouting at each other. This chaotic atmosphere in the restaurant made it less enjoyable for customers like us who are looking for a peaceful meal.
Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that dining at the Beijing Banquet can be on the pricier side. We could think of other more affordable buffet places that have the same quality.