Living in Las Vegas for over two decades has provided me with a deep appreciation for the city’s eclectic dining scene. Among the many buffet options, the Medley Buffet at The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod stands out for its great variety at an affordable price, all while offering a unique dining experience with panoramic views from the top of the tower. This buffet combines the charm of traditional buffet dining with the modern appeal of one of the most iconic locations on the Las Vegas Strip. In this article, I’ll take you through the highlights of the Medley Buffet, explore the different food stations, and share insider tips on how to make the most of your visit, including nearby attractions and what to do before and after your meal.
The Medley Buffet Experience
The Medley Buffet is located at The STRAT, a landmark that offers stunning views of the Las Vegas skyline. As you enjoy your meal, you can gaze out over the city, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the already satisfying buffet experience. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Medley Buffet provides a diverse array of dishes that cater to various tastes, making it a fantastic option for any meal of the day.
Why the Medley Buffet is a Great Choice
The Medley Buffet offers a compelling combination of variety, affordability, and a spectacular setting. Here’s what makes it a great choice:
- Good Variety for the Price: A wide range of cuisines and dishes, all at a reasonable price point.
- Panoramic Views: Located in The STRAT, diners can enjoy incredible views of Las Vegas while they eat.
- Comfort Food and International Flavors: A blend of familiar comfort foods and international cuisine options ensures there’s something for everyone.
- Dessert Station: The perfect ending to your meal with a variety of sweet treats.
Exploring the Food Stations
The Medley Buffet is organized into several food stations, each offering a unique selection of dishes that span different cuisines and flavors. Here’s an in-depth look at what you can expect from each station.
American Comfort Food Station
The American Comfort Food Station is a cornerstone of the Medley Buffet, offering a selection of classic dishes that are both satisfying and familiar. This station is ideal for those who crave hearty, comforting meals.
BBQ Ribs:
- Slow-cooked, tender ribs smothered in a smoky barbecue sauce.
- Served with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
Fried Chicken:
- Crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with a juicy interior.
- Accompanied by mashed potatoes, gravy, and steamed vegetables.
Macaroni and Cheese:
- Creamy and cheesy, baked with a golden breadcrumb topping.
- A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with almost any other dish.
Meatloaf:
- Classic meatloaf topped with a tangy tomato glaze.
- Served with mashed potatoes and green beans for a true comfort food experience.
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy:
- Smooth and creamy mashed potatoes served with your choice of brown or white gravy.
- A perfect complement to the main dishes in this station.
International Cuisine Station
The International Cuisine Station at the Medley Buffet offers a variety of flavors from around the world. This station allows you to explore different cultures through its culinary offerings.
Asian Delights:
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce, served with steamed rice.
- Stir-Fried Noodles: A mix of vegetables and your choice of chicken, beef, or tofu tossed in soy sauce and stir-fried to perfection.
- Sushi Rolls: California rolls, spicy tuna, and veggie rolls served with pickled ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with cabbage, carrots, and pork, served with sweet and sour sauce.
Italian Favorites:
- Lasagna: Layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese baked to a golden brown.
- Spaghetti and Meatballs: Classic spaghetti served with marinara sauce and tender meatballs.
- Chicken Parmesan: Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served with a side of pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery, brushed with garlic and herbs.
Mexican Cuisine:
- Tacos: Soft or hard shell tacos with your choice of seasoned beef, chicken, or pork, topped with lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
- Enchiladas: Corn tortillas filled with cheese or meat, covered in red or green sauce.
- Refried Beans and Spanish Rice: Classic sides that complement the main Mexican dishes.
- Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole.
Seafood Station
The Seafood Station is a highlight for those who enjoy fresh, flavorful seafood dishes. Here, you’ll find a variety of options that are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.
Peel-and-Eat Shrimp:
- Fresh, chilled shrimp served with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
- A refreshing option that’s perfect for seafood lovers.
Fried Fish:
- Crispy fillets of fish, served with tartar sauce and lemon.
- Great for those who enjoy a more traditional seafood option.
Crab Legs:
- Steamed crab legs served with drawn butter.
- A favorite among seafood enthusiasts.
Clam Chowder:
- Rich and creamy New England-style clam chowder packed with tender clams and potatoes.
- Served with oyster crackers on the side.
Ceviche:
- A zesty mix of shrimp, fish, lime juice, cilantro, and tomatoes.
- Light and refreshing, perfect for those who enjoy citrusy seafood dishes.
Carving Station
The Carving Station at the Medley Buffet offers an assortment of slow-cooked meats carved to order by skilled chefs. This station is a favorite for those who love hearty, meat-centric meals.
Prime Rib:
- Juicy, tender prime rib cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Served with au jus and horseradish sauce for a classic pairing.
- Accompanied by roasted vegetables and Yorkshire pudding.
Roast Turkey:
- Perfectly roasted turkey breast, carved to order.
- Served with cranberry sauce and stuffing alongside mashed potatoes and gravy.
Honey-Glazed Ham:
- Sliced to order with a sweet, sticky glaze.
- Paired with sweet potato casserole and green beans.
Barbecue Brisket:
- Slow-cooked, tender brisket served with tangy barbecue sauce.
- A Southern favorite that pairs well with coleslaw and cornbread.
Salad and Soup Station
For those looking to start their meal with something lighter or balance out their plate, the Salad and Soup Station offers a variety of fresh and healthy options.
Salad Bar:
- Fresh Greens: A selection of mixed greens, including romaine, spinach, and iceberg lettuce.
- Toppings: An array of toppings such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, olives, croutons, shredded cheese, and bacon bits.
- Dressings: A wide variety of dressings, including ranch, blue cheese, balsamic vinaigrette, and Caesar.
- Prepared Salads: Pasta salad, potato salad, coleslaw, and a rotating selection of other pre-made salads.
Soups:
- Chicken Noodle Soup: Classic comfort with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vegetables in a savory broth.
- Minestrone: A robust, Italian-style soup with beans, pasta, and a variety of vegetables in a tomato-based broth.
- Cream of Mushroom: This rich and creamy dish features tender pieces of mushroom, perfect for those who love earthy flavors.
- Chili: A hearty option with ground beef, beans, and a touch of spice, served with cornbread or crackers.
Breakfast and Brunch Station
The Breakfast and Brunch Station at the Medley Buffet is the perfect place to start your day, offering a variety of morning favorites that will satisfy any breakfast lover.
Made-to-Order Omelets:
- Customize your omelet with a variety of fresh ingredients such as ham, cheese, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach.
- Cooked to order by skilled chefs at the live cooking station.
Pancakes and Waffles:
- Freshly made pancakes and waffles served with a selection of toppings including butter, syrup, fresh berries, and whipped cream.
- A sweet start to your day that pairs well with bacon or sausage.
Breakfast Meats:
- Crispy bacon, savory sausage links, and grilled ham.
- Ideal companions to eggs and pancakes.
Eggs Benedict:
- Poached eggs served on a toasted English muffin with Canadian bacon and topped with rich hollandaise sauce.
- A classic brunch favorite that’s always a hit.
French Toast:
- Thick slices of bread dipped in a rich egg mixture and cooked to a golden brown, served with maple syrup and powdered sugar.
Dessert Station
No visit to the Medley Buffet would be complete without indulging in the Dessert Station. This area is a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering a wide array of decadent treats.
Cakes and Pies:
- Chocolate Cake: Rich and moist, layered with creamy chocolate frosting.
- Cheesecake: Classic New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, topped with fresh berries or chocolate sauce.
- Apple Pie: A traditional favorite with a flaky crust and spiced apple filling, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar:
- Soft-serve ice cream in vanilla, chocolate, or swirl.
- A variety of toppings including hot fudge, caramel sauce, sprinkles, and chopped nuts.
- Waffle cones and bowls available for an extra-special treat.
Cookies and Brownies:
- Freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies, and fudgy brownies.
- Simple yet satisfying options that are perfect for a sweet finish.
Pastries and Tarts:
- Mini tarts filled with fresh fruit, lemon curd, or chocolate ganache.
- Flaky pastries like éclairs, cream puffs, and Danish.
Live Cooking Stations: Fresh and Customized
The Medley Buffet features several live cooking stations where chefs prepare dishes to your specifications. These stations add an interactive element to your dining experience and ensure that your food is fresh and exactly to your liking.
Omelet Station
As mentioned earlier, the Omelet Station is a breakfast favorite. It offers a variety of ingredients so you can create your perfect omelet.
Endless Combinations:
- Choose from fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and mushrooms.
- Add meats such as ham, bacon, or sausage for extra flavor.
- Cheese lovers can opt for cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Cooked to order, just the way you like it.
Stir-Fry Station
The Stir-Fry Station is a popular choice for those who enjoy Asian cuisine. Here, you can customize your stir-fry dish with a selection of fresh ingredients.
- Pick Your Protein: Chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
- Choose Your Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, bell peppers, and more.
- Select Your Sauce: Soy sauce, teriyaki, or a spicy Szechuan sauce.
- Finish with Rice or Noodles: White rice, brown rice, or lo mein noodles.
- Watch as the chef cooks your stir-fry to perfection in a hot wok.
Nearby Entertainment and Attractions
The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod is more than just a place to eat; it’s an entertainment hub. After enjoying your meal at the Medley Buffet, there are plenty of things to see and do, whether you’re looking for thrills, relaxation, or a bit of both.
The SkyPod Experience
- Observation Deck: Head to the SkyPod’s Observation Deck for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding desert. It’s a must-visit attraction for both tourists and locals.
- SkyJump: For thrill-seekers, the SkyJump offers a heart-pounding experience where you can leap off the SkyPod from a height of over 800 feet.
- X-Scream: Another adrenaline-pumping attraction, X-Scream is a rollercoaster that dangles riders over the edge of the tower, providing a truly unique experience.
Gaming at The STRAT Casino
- Slots and Table Games: After your meal, try your luck at The STRAT Casino, which offers a wide range of slot machines, video poker, and table games like blackjack and roulette.
- Sportsbook: If you’re a sports fan, the casino’s sportsbook is a great place to catch the latest games and place a bet or two.
Entertainment and Shows
- Strat Theater: The STRAT is home to several popular shows, including live music performances, comedy acts, and magic shows. Check the schedule to see what’s playing during your visit.
- Top of the World Restaurant: For a more upscale dining experience, consider making a reservation at the Top of the World Restaurant, which offers gourmet cuisine and stunning views from the 106th floor.
Insider Tips for Visiting the Medley Buffet
As a Las Vegas local, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit to the Medley Buffet.
Timing Your Visit
- Go Early: The Medley Buffet can get crowded, especially during peak meal times. Arriving early means you’ll have the freshest food and the best seating options.
- Best Time for Brunch: If you love both breakfast and lunch, aim to visit during the transition period, typically around 10:30 AM, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Maximize Your Buffet Experience
- Sample Everything: With so many options, filling up quickly is easy. Take smaller portions so you can try a variety of dishes without overindulging.
- Don’t Skip the Dessert: The dessert station is one of the highlights, so be sure to save room for something sweet at the end of your meal.
- Custom Creations: Take advantage of the live cooking stations to create dishes tailored to your taste. The omelet and stir-fry stations are particularly popular.
Planning Your Day Around the Buffet
- Morning Activities: Start your day with a visit to the SkyPod’s Observation Deck or one of the thrill rides before heading to the buffet for brunch.
- Post-Buffet Entertainment: After your meal, explore The STRAT’s casino, catch a show, or simply relax and enjoy the view from the SkyPod.
- Evening Plans: The STRAT’s central location on the Strip makes it easy to continue your evening with a stroll along Las Vegas Boulevard, where you can take in the lights and excitement of the city.
Dining with a View at Medley Buffet
The Medley Buffet at The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod offers a unique dining experience that combines a wide variety of delicious food with some of the best views in Las Vegas. Whether you’re enjoying classic comfort foods, exploring international flavors, or indulging in sweet treats at the dessert station, there’s something for everyone at this affordable buffet. Add to that the thrill of dining high above the city with panoramic views, and you have a Las Vegas experience that’s hard to beat.
As someone who has lived in Las Vegas for over two decades, I can confidently recommend the Medley Buffet as a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike. Plan your visit, take in the sights, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as the views. The Medley Buffet is more than just a place to eat—it’s a quintessential part of the Las Vegas experience.
