Living in Las Vegas for over two decades, I’ve witnessed the city’s evolution from a gambling haven to an international hub for entertainment, dining, and leisure. One of the quintessential experiences that has remained a constant draw for both locals and visitors is the Las Vegas buffet. Among the many options available, the Buffet at TI – Treasure Island Hotel & Casino offers a unique experience. It may not be the largest buffet on the Strip, but it distinguishes itself by focusing on quality, variety, and an inviting atmosphere. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about enjoying the Buffet at TI.
The Buffet at TI: An Overview
While many Las Vegas buffets are known for their overwhelming size and variety, the Buffet at TI takes a different approach. It offers a more intimate and curated dining experience, prioritizing quality over sheer quantity. This makes it a perfect choice for those who appreciate well-prepared food without the need to navigate endless rows of dishes.
Why Choose the Buffet at TI?
The Buffet at TI offers several advantages that set it apart from other buffets on the Strip.
- Smaller Size, Higher Quality: The buffet’s smaller size allows for a focus on well-crafted dishes, ensuring that each offering is of high quality.
- Kid-Friendly Environment: The buffet is a great choice for families, with a variety of options for both adults and children.
- Affordable Luxury: While not the cheapest buffet in town, the quality of food and service makes it a great value.
- Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, Treasure Island’s location makes it easy to combine a visit to the buffet with other activities and attractions.
A Comprehensive Culinary Tour of the Buffet at TI
The Buffet at TI is a melting pot of culinary delights, offering a diverse array of cuisines that cater to every palate. From American comfort food to international dishes, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore the expanded food and live cooking stations in detail.
American Comfort Food Station
The American Comfort Food Station is where you’ll find all the classics that remind you of home, along with some elevated versions of traditional favorites.
Carving Station
- Prime Rib: This slow-roasted prime rib is perfectly seasoned and cooked to a juicy, tender finish.
- Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast: The turkey breast is moist and flavorful, with a fragrant herb crust that adds a delightful crunch.
- Rotisserie Chicken: The chicken is cooked on a rotisserie, ensuring a crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Grill Station
- Made-to-Order Burgers: Customize your burger with a choice of beef, turkey, or veggie patties, and add toppings like cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and avocado.
- Gourmet Hot Dogs: Jumbo hot dogs are served with a variety of toppings, including chili, cheese, sauerkraut, and relish.
- BBQ Ribs: These slow-cooked pork ribs are slathered in a tangy, smoky barbecue sauce that falls off the bone.
Southern Specialties
- Buttermilk Fried Chicken: This classic comfort food is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, seasoned to perfection.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: A rich and creamy dish made with a blend of cheeses that create the ultimate comfort food.
- Cornbread: Served warm with a side of honey butter, this cornbread is sweet and moist and a perfect complement to the other dishes.
- Shrimp and Grits: Creamy grits are topped with succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy Creole sauce, bringing a taste of the South to your plate.
- Chicken and Waffles: Crispy fried chicken served on a fluffy Belgian waffle, drizzled with maple syrup for the perfect sweet and savory combination.
International Cuisine Station
The International Cuisine Station at the Buffet at TI brings global flavors to your table, allowing you to explore a variety of ethnic dishes.
Italian Delights
- Freshly Made Pasta: Choose from a selection of pastas, including penne, spaghetti, and fettuccine, and pair it with sauces like marinara, Alfredo, or pesto.
- Lasagna: This classic Italian dish is layered with rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and a blend of cheeses, baked to perfection.
- Chicken Parmesan: Breaded chicken cutlets are topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served hot and crispy.
Asian Flavors
- Stir-Fried Noodles: Freshly cooked noodles are stir-fried with your choice of chicken, beef, or shrimp, along with a mix of vegetables.
- Sushi Rolls: A variety of sushi rolls are available, including popular choices like California rolls, spicy tuna rolls, and vegetarian options.
- Dim Sum: Steamed dumplings, pork buns, and other dim sum favorites are offered, providing a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine.
Mexican Fiesta
- Build-Your-Own Tacos: Customize your tacos with fillings like carne asada, seasoned chicken, grilled vegetables, and a variety of toppings.
- Enchiladas: These enchiladas are stuffed with your choice of meat or cheese and then smothered in red or green sauce.
- Fresh Guacamole and Salsa: Freshly made guacamole and a variety of salsas are available, along with crispy tortilla chips.
Mediterranean Favorites
- Gyro Station: Sliced lamb or chicken gyro meat is served with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of toppings like tomatoes, onions, and lettuce.
- Falafel: These crispy chickpea fritters are served with hummus and tahini sauce, offering a delicious vegetarian option.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil and oregano.
Middle Eastern Delights
- Shawarma Station: Spit-roasted chicken or beef is carved to order and served with flatbread and traditional accompaniments like pickles, garlic sauce, and tabbouleh.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These grape leaves are filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, offering a classic Middle Eastern appetizer.
Seafood Station
Seafood lovers will find plenty to enjoy at the Seafood Station, which offers both cold and hot options that are sure to satisfy any craving for oceanic delights.
Cold Selections
- Peel-and-Eat Shrimp: These shrimp are served chilled and ready to be dipped in a tangy cocktail sauce.
- Oysters on the Half Shell: Fresh oysters are served with a selection of mignonettes, lemon wedges, and hot sauce for a briny treat.
- Smoked Salmon: Thinly sliced smoked salmon is accompanied by traditional garnishes such as capers, onions, and cream cheese.
Hot Selections
- Grilled Salmon: This dish features perfectly grilled salmon, lightly seasoned to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Crab Legs: Hot crab legs are served with melted butter, ready for you to crack open and enjoy the sweet, succulent meat.
- Clams in Garlic Butter Sauce: These clams are steamed and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, making for a delicious and aromatic dish.
Salad and Cold Bar
If you want to balance your meal with something lighter, the Salad and Cold Bar offers a wide range of fresh, crisp options.
Build-Your-Own Salad
- Variety of Lettuces: Choose from romaine, spinach, arugula, and more to start your salad.
- Toppings: Add a variety of toppings such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded carrots, croutons, bacon bits, and olives.
- Dressings: Select from dressings like classic ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, Caesar, or a light lemon dressing.
Pre-Made Salads
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, house-made dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
- Caprese Salad: This refreshing Italian starter features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze.
- Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and oregano.
Dessert Station
No buffet experience is complete without a visit to the Dessert Station, and the Buffet at TI offers a delightful variety of sweet treats to finish off your meal.
Cakes and Pies
- New York-Style Cheesecake: This rich and creamy cheesecake is served with a graham cracker crust and a choice of fruit toppings.
- Chocolate Mousse Cake: A decadent dessert featuring rich chocolate mousse and cake layers.
- Key Lime Pie: A sweet and tangy pie with a smooth lime filling and a graham cracker crust.
Cookies and Pastries
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Freshly baked and warm, these cookies are gooey and delicious.
- Assorted Pastries: Choose from a selection of pastries, including éclairs, cream puffs, fruit tarts, and more.
- Cinnamon Rolls: Soft and sweet, these cinnamon rolls are drizzled with icing and served warm.
Ice Cream Station
- Variety of Flavors: Choose from classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
- Toppings Bar: Customize your ice cream with toppings like hot fudge, caramel sauce, sprinkles, nuts, and whipped cream.
- Sundae Creations: Make your own sundae and top it with a cherry for the perfect finishing touch.
Chocolate Fountain
- Dipping Items: Dip strawberries, marshmallows, pretzels, biscotti, and pieces of pound cake into a flowing fountain of rich, melted chocolate.
- Additional Treats: Other items like dried fruits and cookies are also available for dipping.
Live Cooking Stations
One of the most exciting features of the Buffet at TI is the live cooking stations, where chefs prepare dishes right in front of you. This ensures freshness and allows you to customize your meal to your liking.
Omelet Station (Breakfast & Brunch)
- Custom Omelets: Choose from a variety of fillings, including mushrooms, peppers, onions, cheese, ham, spinach, and more, and watch as the chef expertly prepares your omelet.
- Hash Browns and Breakfast Sausages: Pair your omelet with a side of crispy hash browns or breakfast sausages to complete your morning meal.
Pasta Station
- Choose Your Pasta: Select from a variety of pasta types, such as penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine, and have it cooked to order.
- Pick Your Sauce: Sauces include marinara, Alfredo, pesto, and a variety of others, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
- Add Protein: Enhance your pasta with options like grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage, and finish it with freshly grated Parmesan or herbs.
Crepe Station (Breakfast & Brunch)
- Sweet Crepes: Made-to-order crepes are filled with options like Nutella, bananas, strawberries, or whipped cream, creating a delicious breakfast treat.
- Savory Crepes: For a more substantial meal, try savory crepes with fillings such as ham and cheese, spinach and mushroom, or smoked salmon with cream cheese.
Nearby Entertainment and Attractions
When planning your visit to the Buffet at TI, consider the nearby attractions that can help you make the most of your day. Located in the heart of the Strip, Treasure Island is surrounded by entertainment and attractions that are perfect before or after your meal.
Before Your Meal: Morning and Afternoon Activities
If you plan to visit the buffet for lunch or brunch, start your day with one of these nearby attractions.
The Mirage Volcano
- Daily Eruptions: Just a short walk from Treasure Island, the Mirage Volcano offers a spectacular display of fireballs, water, and music.
- Family-Friendly: This iconic attraction is perfect for families or anyone looking to experience a bit of classic Vegas.
The Fashion Show Mall
- Shopping Galore: Located right across the street from Treasure Island, this mall features over 250 stores, including luxury brands and popular retailers.
- Pre-Buffet Browsing: It’s a great place to do some shopping or window-shopping before indulging in the buffet.
Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.
- Interactive Exhibit: Located within Treasure Island, this attraction is a must-visit for superhero fans. It offers a chance to explore the world of the Avengers with hands-on displays and authentic props.
- Fun for All Ages: The exhibit is engaging for both children and adults, making it a great pre-meal activity.
After Your Meal: Evening Entertainment
After enjoying a satisfying meal at the Buffet at TI, the Strip offers a wealth of entertainment options to continue your day or night.
Mystère by Cirque du Soleil
- Stunning Acrobatics: Located within Treasure Island, Mystère is a Cirque du Soleil show that combines incredible acrobatics, music, and visuals.
- Perfect Nightcap: Seeing a Cirque du Soleil show is a quintessential Vegas experience, and Mystère is an excellent way to cap off your evening after a delicious meal.
The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes
- Luxury Shopping and Gondola Rides: A short walk from Treasure Island, the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian offers a unique shopping experience with indoor canals and gondola rides.
- Romantic Strolls: Enjoy a post-dinner walk through the shoppes, perhaps picking up a souvenir or simply taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Casino Action
- Gaming Variety: Treasure Island’s casino offers various gaming options, from slot machines to table games and sports betting.
- Try Your Luck: Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking to have some fun, the casino offers something for everyone.
Insider Tips for Planning Your Day
Maximizing your visit to the Buffet at TI involves more than just knowing what’s on the menu. Here are some insider tips to help you plan the perfect day.
Timing Is Everything
- Avoid Peak Hours: The buffet can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. Aim for an early brunch or a late lunch to avoid long lines.
- Consider Reservations: If you’re dining with a large group, making a reservation in advance is a good idea to ensure everyone can be seated together without waiting.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Look for Promotions: Check Treasure Island’s website for special deals and promotions, such as buffet discounts or packages with show tickets or hotel stays.
- Player’s Club Perks: If you’re a frequent visitor to Las Vegas, consider signing up for the casino’s player’s club. Points earned from gaming can often be redeemed for buffet meals and other perks.
Family-Friendly Dining
- Kid-Friendly Selections: The buffet offers a variety of options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, from mac and cheese to simple pasta dishes and desserts.
- Stroller Access: The buffet’s layout is spacious enough to accommodate strollers, making it easy for families with young children to navigate.
A Buffet Experience Worth Returning To
The Buffet at TI – Treasure Island Hotel & Casino is a true hidden gem in the Las Vegas buffet scene. While it may not boast the sprawling size of some of the more famous buffets on the Strip, it excels in offering high-quality dishes, a diverse range of cuisines, and a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this buffet provides a dining experience that is sure to leave you satisfied and eager to return.
With its expanded food stations, live cooking experiences, and a focus on quality over quantity, the Buffet at TI stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal in Las Vegas. Combine your visit with the nearby attractions and entertainment options, and you have all the ingredients for a memorable day on the Strip.
