TL;DR
Experience Johannesburg’s finest buffet restaurants through detailed reviews of their menus, ambiance, pricing, and real user insights.
Whether craving authentic African dishes, Indian cuisine, or family-friendly dining, this guide highlights the top buffets in Johannesburg, ensuring every visit is a feast to remember.
Top Buffet Restaurants in Johannesburg Reviewed
Billy G Buffet at Montecasino
Menu Highlights: A vast selection including succulent carvery cuts, casseroles, curries, vegetarian dishes, fresh salads, and decadent desserts. The food is always freshly prepared for immediate serving, perfect for those who prefer no wait times.
Atmosphere: Upmarket and family-friendly with a vibrant yet relaxed ambiance at the Montecasino complex. Ideal for birthdays, family outings, or romantic dinners.
Prices:
Children 0–1 years: Free (one per adult)
Children 2–6 years: R90
Children 7–12 years: R175
Pensioners: R200 (ID required)
Birthday Celebration Discount: R150 for Rewards members
Ratings & Reviews Snippet: Highly rated for variety and quality. “The meat cuts were tender, and the vegetarian options satisfy all dietary needs. The ambiance was lively with attentive staff,” shares Maria, a local food enthusiast.
Contact & Booking: Official Website | Phone: +27 11 510 7600
Shahi Khana—Authentic North Indian Buffet
Menu Highlights: From chicken shahi tikka and tandoori chicken to mutton vindaloo and fish madras, this buffet also stands out for its rich vegetarian selections. A highlight is their butter chicken curry, perfect for mild spice lovers.
Atmosphere: Intimate and cozy with warm décor. It’s a family-run spot that feels welcoming but can fill quickly, so booking ahead is recommended, especially for larger groups.
Prices & Availability:
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM (buffet limited days)
Ratings & Review Snippet: Loved by gourmets:“One of the best Indian buffets in Johannesburg with amazing flavors and great value,” says food blogger Sambit Saha.
Contact & Booking: Official Website | Phone: +27 11 728 8157
Chiefs Boma Restaurant – Unique African Buffet Experience
Menu Highlights: This 250-seater boma offers a traditional African culinary journey featuring barbecue meats, African stews, and a variety of sides showcasing indigenous flavors. The grilled meat is especially praised for tenderness.
Atmosphere: Set in tranquil indigenous gardens, the vibe is authentic and culturally rich with festive live music at times, perfect for groups and celebrations.
Prices:
Reservations recommended for groups
Ratings & Review Snippet: “The atmosphere and food took me right into the heart of African culture,” says Gilles Debiol, praising the live music and grilled meats.
Contact & Booking: Phone: +27 11 258 5800 | Official Website
Carnivore Restaurant—A Meaty Buffet Delight
Menu Highlights: Known widely for its dramatic all-you-can-eat meat menus featuring exotic game and traditional grills alongside well-curated side dishes and salads.
Atmosphere: Set amidst the natural beauty of the Muldersdrift countryside with panoramic views and rustic charm, it’s perfect for a special occasion.
Prices & Details:
Bookings advised, especially weekends
Review Notes:“A carnivore’s paradise! The quality and variety of meat kept us coming back year after year,” shares regular diner Thando.
Contact & Booking: Phone: +27 11 957 8800 | Official Website
Tres Jolie—Family-Friendly Buffet with a Country Charm
Menu Highlights: Offers an eclectic blend of international dishes and local favorites, with great choices for children and adults alike. The desserts and homemade breads particularly stand out.
Atmosphere: A charming, rustic country vibe located in Ruimsig, perfect for casual family gatherings.
Pricing: Buffet pricing typically ranges around R180-R250 per person, with specials available on certain days.
Contact & More Info: Phone: +27 11 950 8057 | Official Website
Lal Qila—Pakistani & Mughlai Buffet Feast
Menu Highlights: Over 70 dishes, including Pakistani specialties, Chinese-Pakistani fusion, a live naan station, grilled meats, and rich desserts. The naan cooked on fire inside kettles is a culinary highlight.
Atmosphere: Opulent and cozy, with comfortable seating and attentive staff. Perfect for leisurely lunches or dinners with friends and family.
Prices: Weekend buffet price around R165 per person, soda fountain included.
Review Mention: “Fabulous variety and flavor; the naan station stole the show,” praises a TripAdvisor reviewer.
Contact & Bookings: Official Website | Phone: +27 11 832 5373
Flames Restaurant—Flavorful Buffet with Pan-African Flair
Menu Highlights: A variety of grilled meats, African-inspired dishes, fresh vegetables, and vibrant salads. The buffet features all-day dining with rotating specialties.
Atmosphere: Casual yet stylish with friendly staff. Great place to unwind after work or enjoy a Saturday brunch.
Pricing: Buffet prices are generally between R230-R280 depending on the day and time.
Contact & Details: Phone: +27 11 789 8523 | Official Website
Aroma Restaurant – Authentic Indian Cuisine Buffet
Menu Highlights: A family-run restaurant specializing in rich Indian curries, freshly baked breads, and spicy delicacies with generous vegetarian options.
Atmosphere: Leafy outdoor setting in Linden with friendly service and a peaceful vibe, perfect for relaxed meals.
Prices: Buffets generally range from R150 to R220 per person depending on days and specials.
Contact Info: +27 11 887 4545 | Official Website
The Temptations Lounge – Contemporary Buffet in Germiston
Menu Highlights: Known for modern, eclectic dishes with vibrant flavors and a good mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options.
Atmosphere: Trendy and energetic lounge atmosphere with modern décor, perfect for social dining and casual meetups.
Price Range: Approximately R200–R270 per person, depending on day and specials.
Contact Details: Phone: +27 11 873 1234 | Official Website
Personal Insights: What Makes Johannesburg’s Buffets Stand Out?
From my visits, I found Johannesburg’s buffet scene wonderfully diverse, enabling exploration of authentic African, Indian, and international cuisines in various settings—from rustic countryside charm to upscale urban dining. What stood out was the careful attention to variety, quality, and a warm atmosphere that balances casual dining with memorable experiences. Whether dining solo, as a couple, or in a larger group, these buffets offer excellent value for money and ample options to suit all palates and dietary needs.
Booking is highly recommended for popular spots especially on weekends and special buffet nights, to avoid disappointment. I encourage exploring beyond city center options for unique venues like Chiefs Boma and Carnivore, which elevate a buffet to a cultural event.
Frequently Asked Questions about Johannesburg’s Buffets
What is the average price for a buffet in Johannesburg?
Prices typically range from R120 to R350 per person depending on the restaurant, day, and whether drinks are included. Special discounts for children and seniors often apply.
Are vegetarian options available at these buffets?
Yes, most buffets in Johannesburg offer a wide range of vegetarian dishes. Shahi Khana and Billy G Buffet are particularly known for their extensive vegetarian selections.
Do these buffet restaurants accept bookings for large groups?
Yes, many restaurants like Chiefs Boma and Billy G accommodate large groups and even host celebrations or corporate events. It’s advisable to book in advance to secure your spot.
Which buffet is best for a family-friendly environment?
Tres Jolie and Billy G Buffets are excellent choices for families, offering kid-friendly menus and casual atmospheres. They also have ample space and varied food options to suit both adults and children.
Where can I find authentic African buffet cuisine in Johannesburg?
Chiefs Boma Restaurant and Flames Restaurant are celebrated for authentic African buffet experiences featuring grilled meats, traditional dishes, and vibrant atmospheres.
