Vegas vacation: Dining at buffets

By Lena Katz and Samantha Chapnick

Buffets are as much a part of Las Vegas vacations as blackjack tables. And while Vegas still has its share of old-fashioned buffets, we found that many Vegas hotels have added quality to the already-existing quantity credo. And the Vegas buffet world is all the better for it.

In this series, we’re covering our favorite buffets in Vegas.

Part 1: Break-the-bank buffets

In a town with $5,000 cocktails, we didn’t think any of the buffets were really pricy.
Even the most expensive is about $80 per person including tax. This
is one splurge most visitors can easily afford.

The buffet at Bellagio is one of the most upscale. The selection is vast, and we think the quality is by far the best. No tough strip steak or soggy eggs Benedict here. Bellagio serves
loin of wild boar, delicate roast and stuffed squab, smoked trout, and
hundreds of other creative delights. Everything is made in-house:
sauces, soup, desserts, you name it.

On the same level quality-wise — or at least near it, we think — is the Wynn
buffet. It’s not quite on the same massive scale as the Bellagio, but
like everything the Wynn does, it’s elegant. Here are our three top reasons to go: décor (Alice in Wonderland-style topiaries
in keeping with the whimsical hotel feel), king crab legs, and variety
(17 stations).

On weekends, Bally’s steakhouse turns into a brunch buffet. We think it’s on a par with the other two in terms of quality and quantity, but
it’s the seafood and champagne that get all the raves. We couldn’t
believe that the unlimited champagne is Perrier Jouet, and the buffet
includes caviar, lobster, sushi, stone crabs and filet mignon! Meanwhile, they take reservations, so it feels more upscale and respectful.
Be sure to get a reservation at least two weeks in advance.

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