Shoney’s Sunday buffet menu with prices brings together comfort food favorites like fried chicken and mashed potatoes, all included in one fixed price. If you’re looking for a hearty weekend meal that won’t break the bank, this buffet is a solid choice. You get access to a wide spread of classic dishes, from crispy fried chicken to fresh salads, and even dessert.
The exact cost can vary a bit depending on where you live, but we’ve got the typical numbers right here. Plus, we’ll walk you through everything you can expect to find on the buffet line. Let’s get into the details so you know exactly what you’re paying for and what to grab first.
Shoney’s Sunday Buffet Menu With Prices
So, what does the Shoney’s Sunday buffet actually cost? As of 2024, the average price for adults is around $12.99 to $15.99 per person. Kids usually pay less, often around $6.99 to $8.99 depending on their age. Seniors might get a small discount too, typically around $10.99 to $12.99.
These prices can shift a little based on your location and the current economic conditions. Some franchises might charge a bit more if they’re in a pricier area. Always check with your local Shoney’s for the exact numbers, but this range gives you a solid baseline for budgeting your Sunday meal.
What You Get On The Buffet
The buffet is packed with options. You’re not just getting one or two dishes. It’s a full spread that covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner all in one sitting. Here’s a breakdown of the typical items you’ll see on the line:
- Fried chicken – crispy and hot, usually the star of the show
- Mashed potatoes with gravy – creamy and comforting
- Macaroni and cheese – cheesy and satisfying
- Green beans or other steamed vegetables
- Corn on the cob or creamed corn
- Meatloaf – sometimes available, varies by location
- Fish – often fried catfish or cod
- Salad bar – lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, dressings
- Fresh fruit – seasonal selections
- Desserts – pudding, cake, cookies, and ice cream
You can mix and match as much as you want. There’s no limit on trips to the buffet line. That’s the beauty of it – you pay once and eat until you’re full.
Breakfast Items On The Sunday Buffet
Even though it’s a Sunday lunch or dinner buffet, Shoney’s often includes breakfast items too. This is great if you’re there early or just want a little of everything. Common breakfast foods you might find include:
- Scrambled eggs – fluffy and warm
- Bacon – crispy strips
- Sausage links or patties
- Pancakes – sometimes with syrup
- French toast sticks
- Grits – a Southern staple
- Biscuits and gravy
So if you’re craving a breakfast-for-lunch kind of day, this buffet covers that. You can pile your plate with eggs and bacon, then follow it up with fried chicken and mashed potatoes. No one judges at a buffet.
Kids Eat For Less
Bringing the whole family? Shoney’s makes it easier with lower prices for kids. Children under a certain age, usually 4 or 5, might eat for free or at a very reduced rate. Older kids up to 10 or 12 typically pay the kids’ price, which is about half of the adult price.
This makes the Sunday buffet a budget-friendly option for families. You don’t have to worry about each child ordering off a separate menu. They can just grab what they like from the buffet, and you only pay one flat fee per kid.
How To Get The Best Value
To really maximize your money at the Shoney’s Sunday buffet, you need a strategy. It’s not just about eating a lot – it’s about eating smart. Here are some tips to make sure you get your money’s worth:
- Go early – The food is freshest right when the buffet opens. You get first pick of the fried chicken and hot items.
- Check for coupons – Shoney’s often has digital coupons on their app or website. You can sometimes get a dollar or two off.
- Skip the drinks – Drinks are usually extra. Stick with water to save money, unless you really want a soda or tea.
- Focus on expensive items – Load up on proteins like fried chicken and fish first. Those are the items that cost more if ordered separately.
- Save room for dessert – Don’t fill up entirely on bread or salad. Leave space for the sweets at the end.
Following these steps helps you feel like you got a great deal. Plus, you leave full and satisfied without overspending.
Location Matters For Pricing
Not all Shoney’s restaurants charge the same price for the Sunday buffet. Locations in bigger cities or tourist areas might be higher. Rural locations or smaller towns often have lower prices. For example, a Shoney’s in a small town in Tennessee might charge $12.99, while one in a busy part of Florida could be $15.99.
It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check online. You can ask the restaurant directly what their current Sunday buffet price is. That way, you won’t be surprised when you get the bill.
What Time Is The Sunday Buffet Served?
Timing is everything. The Shoney’s Sunday buffet usually starts around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM and runs until closing time, which is often around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Some locations might switch from breakfast to lunch items around 11:00 AM, but the buffet stays available all day.
If you want the full breakfast selection, go in the morning. If you prefer lunch and dinner foods, go after 11:00 AM. Either way, you’ll have plenty of options. Just keep in mind that the buffet might be busiest between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, right after church services let out.
Peak Hours And Wait Times
Sundays are busy at Shoney’s. Many families come after church, so expect a crowd around noon. You might have to wait for a table for 10 to 20 minutes during peak hours. If you want to avoid the rush, try going at 11:00 AM or 3:00 PM. Those times are usually quieter.
During busy times, the buffet might run low on popular items like fried chicken. But the staff usually restocks quickly. Just be patient and check back in a few minutes if something you want is gone.
Dietary Considerations And Options
If you have dietary restrictions, the Shoney’s Sunday buffet still has options. The salad bar is a good choice for lighter eating. You can build a big salad with fresh veggies and protein like hard-boiled eggs or cheese. There are also steamed vegetables like green beans and corn.
For gluten-free needs, you can stick with meats and veggies. The fried chicken is breaded, so that’s not safe. But the grilled or baked items might work. Always ask the staff about specific ingredients if you’re concerned.
Vegetarians can fill up on the salad bar, mac and cheese, and vegetable sides. It’s not a huge selection, but it’s enough for a satisfying meal. Vegans might have a harder time, as most sides have butter or dairy. The fruit bar is a safe bet though.
Allergen Information
Shoney’s does provide allergen information on request. If you have a serious allergy, talk to the manager before you eat. They can tell you which items contain common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten. The buffet setup means there’s some risk of cross-contamination, so be cautious.
Some locations have a dedicated gluten-free section or label items. But it’s not guaranteed everywhere. When in doubt, ask. The staff is usually helpful and willing to check ingredient lists.
Comparing The Sunday Buffet To Other Days
Shoney’s offers a buffet every day, not just Sunday. But the Sunday version is special because it includes both breakfast and lunch items. On weekdays, the buffet might be smaller and focus more on lunch or dinner foods. The price is also lower on weekdays, often around $9.99 to $11.99.
So if you’re looking for the biggest variety, Sunday is the day to go. You get the full spread with all the breakfast goodies plus the classic comfort foods. It’s a better value if you want to try a little bit of everything.
Weekday Buffet Vs Sunday Buffet
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which day works best for you:
- Weekday buffet – Smaller selection, lower price, less crowded
- Sunday buffet – Full breakfast and lunch items, higher price, busier
- Saturday buffet – Similar to weekday but sometimes includes breakfast items
If you’re on a tight budget, the weekday buffet is a good alternative. But if you want the full experience with pancakes and fried chicken on the same plate, Sunday is the winner.
Drinks And Extras
The buffet price usually doesn’t include drinks. You have to pay extra for soda, tea, coffee, or juice. A soft drink might cost around $2.50 to $3.00. Coffee is often a bit cheaper, around $2.00. Water is free, so that’s the best choice if you’re watching your spending.
Some locations offer a drink upgrade where you pay a flat fee for unlimited refills. That can be worth it if you plan to have multiple glasses. But for most people, sticking with water saves money and leaves more room for food.
Dessert Options On The Buffet
Dessert is included in the buffet price. You don’t have to pay extra for cake or pudding. Common dessert items include:
- Chocolate pudding – creamy and rich
- Banana pudding – a Southern classic
- Cookies – chocolate chip or sugar
- Cake – sometimes yellow cake with frosting
- Ice cream – soft serve or pre-scooped
- Fruit cobbler – apple or peach, when available
Don’t skip dessert. It’s part of the deal, and the banana pudding is usually a crowd favorite. Just save a little space in your stomach for it.
Tips For First-Timers
If you’ve never been to a Shoney’s Sunday buffet, here’s what you need to know. First, you pay at the register before you sit down. Then you find a table and head to the buffet line. You can go back as many times as you want, but try not to waste food.
Second, the buffet is self-serve. You grab a plate and fill it up. There are usually two lines – one for hot food and one for cold food. Start with the hot items if you want them fresh. The cold items like salad and fruit can wait.
Third, be polite to the staff. They work hard to keep the buffet stocked and clean. A simple thank you goes a long way. And if you see something empty, just ask them to refill it. They’re usually happy to help.
What To Avoid
Some items on the buffet might not be as good as others. For example, the bread rolls can be dry if they’ve been sitting out. The mac and cheese might be a little watery. Stick with the popular items like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and banana pudding for the best experience.
Also, avoid taking too much food at once. It’s better to go back for seconds than to waste food. Buffets are about trying a little bit of everything, not piling your plate sky-high.
Shoney’s Sunday Buffet Menu With Prices: Final Thoughts
So, is the Shoney’s Sunday buffet worth it? For most people, yes. You get a huge variety of comfort foods for a reasonable price. It’s especially good for families, groups, or anyone who wants a big, satisfying meal without the hassle of ordering off a menu.
Just remember to check your local prices, go at the right time, and focus on the items you love most. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic Sunday meal that leaves you full and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of Shoney’s Sunday buffet for adults?
Adults typically pay between $12.99 and $15.99, depending on location. Some areas might be slightly higher or lower, so it’s best to confirm with your local restaurant.
Does Shoney’s Sunday buffet include drinks?
No, drinks are usually not included. You pay extra for soda, tea, coffee, or juice. Water is free and available at the buffet.
What time does Shoney’s Sunday buffet start and end?
The buffet usually starts around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM and runs until closing, often 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Breakfast items switch to lunch items around 11:00 AM.
Can I get a discount on the Shoney’s Sunday buffet?
Yes, seniors and children often get discounted prices. You can also find coupons online or on the Shoney’s app for additional savings.
Is the Shoney’s Sunday buffet available all year round?
Yes, the Sunday buffet is a regular offering at most locations. It’s available every Sunday, including holidays, though hours might vary on major holidays.