King Buffet’s steam tables rotate through dozens of dishes, and their opening times for breakfast, lunch, and holidays depend on which location you visit. To avoid a wasted trip, you need to check the specific schedule for your local King Buffet before heading out the door. This guide breaks down the typical hours, holiday exceptions, and how to confirm the exact times for your nearest spot.
Most King Buffet locations operate on a consistent daily schedule, but there are subtle differences between weekdays and weekends. Breakfast service is not offered at every branch, so you have to verify this before assuming an early morning meal is possible. Lunch typically starts right before noon, and dinner service runs until closing time.
King Buffet Opening Breakfast Lunch And Holiday Hours
Here is the standard breakdown you can expect at most locations. Keep in mind that these are general patterns, not guarantees for every single restaurant in the chain.
Standard Weekly Schedule
The typical week looks like this for the majority of King Buffet restaurants:
- Monday to Thursday: Open at 11:00 AM for lunch, close at 9:30 PM.
- Friday: Open at 11:00 AM, close at 10:00 PM (dinner rush extended).
- Saturday: Open at 11:00 AM, close at 10:00 PM.
- Sunday: Open at 11:00 AM, close at 9:30 PM.
Some locations open as early as 10:30 AM for the lunch crowd. If you are looking for a specific breakfast menu, you might be disappointed. Only a handful of franchises offer a breakfast buffet, and those that do usually serve it from 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM on weekends only.
Breakfast Service Availability
Breakfast is not a chain-wide offering. You should call ahead or check the local Facebook page to see if your branch participates. If they do, expect standard American breakfast items like scrambled eggs, bacon, and pancakes alongside some Chinese staples. The breakfast price is usually lower than the lunch price, but the selection is smaller.
Lunch Versus Dinner Pricing
Lunch is almost always cheaper than dinner. The switch from lunch to dinner pricing typically happens at 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. If you want to save money, arrive before 2:30 PM. The food selection might change slightly, with dinner offering more seafood options like crab legs or shrimp.
Holiday Schedule Variations
Holidays are where things get tricky. King Buffet does not follow a uniform holiday calendar. Some locations close entirely on major holidays, while others operate on reduced hours. Here is what you need to know for the big ones:
Thanksgiving And Christmas
These are the most common days for King Buffet to close completely. Many locations shut their doors on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day to let staff spend time with family. However, some high-traffic tourist areas might stay open. You cannot assume they are closed; you must check the specific store’s announcement.
New Year’s Day And Easter
New Year’s Day often sees a delayed opening, usually starting at 12:00 PM instead of 11:00 AM. Easter Sunday might have a special brunch buffet from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, but regular dinner hours might be shortened. These are special events, so the pricing structure changes.
Other Federal Holidays
For holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Independence Day, most King Buffet locations stay open on regular hours. These are typically busy days for buffets. If you plan to go on a holiday, expect a wait and a full parking lot. The food is usually fresh because of the high turnover.
How To Confirm Your Location’s Hours
You should never rely on old information. Here is a simple step-by-step process to get the correct hours for your specific King Buffet:
- Open Google Maps and search for “King Buffet near me.”
- Click on the specific location you plan to visit.
- Check the “Popular times” graph to see when they open and close.
- Call the phone number listed on the Google listing directly.
- Ask the staff specifically about breakfast, lunch, and holiday hours.
Calling is the most reliable method. The online listings are sometimes outdated, especially around the holidays. A quick phone call takes less than two minutes and saves you from driving to a closed restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does King Buffet serve breakfast every day?
No. Breakfast is only available at select locations, and it is usually limited to weekend mornings. You must call your local branch to confirm if they offer it at all.
What time does King Buffet stop serving lunch?
Lunch service typically runs until 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. After that time, the price changes to the dinner rate, and the menu expands with more premium items.
Is King Buffet open on Christmas Day?
Most locations are closed on Christmas Day. However, a few franchise owners choose to stay open. Check the specific restaurant’s social media or call them directly.
Do holiday hours cost more?
Yes, on major holidays like Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day, the price per person is often higher. The restaurant usually posts a special holiday menu with a set price.
Can I make a reservation for a large group during the holidays?
Most King Buffet locations do not take reservations. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early if you have a large party, especially on weekends or holidays.
Remember that hours can change without notice. If you are traveling a long distance to eat at King Buffet, always call ahead. The management will give you the most accurate information for that specific day. It is better to be safe than to arrive at a locked door.