Living in Las Vegas for over two decades has given me plenty of time to explore this city’s culinary delights. The MGM Grand Buffet at MGM Grand is a place that never disappoints, whether you’re a local like me or a tourist looking for a fantastic dining experience. The buffet has something for everyone—from extensive breakfast selections to diverse international cuisines, live cooking stations, and a decadent dessert station. In this article, I’ll walk you through what to expect, how to make the most of your visit, and offer some insider tips on what to do before and after your meal.
The MGM Grand Buffet Experience
The MGM Grand Buffet is a cornerstone of the Las Vegas dining scene. With its sprawling layout, wide variety of food stations, and a casual yet upscale atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re here for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, you’ll find an array of delicious options to suit every palate.
What Makes the MGM Grand Buffet Stand Out?
The MGM Grand Buffet is not just another buffet; it’s a culinary journey. Here’s why it stands out:
- Extensive Breakfast Selection: One of the most impressive breakfast spreads in Vegas, perfect for starting your day.
- International Cuisine: A diverse selection of dishes from around the world ensures that there’s something for everyone.
- Live Cooking Stations: Watch as your food is prepared right in front of you, adding a fresh and exciting element to your meal.
- Bottomless Drinks Option: This popular option offers unlimited mimosas, bloody marys, and more.
- Decadent Dessert Station: Save room for dessert—you won’t want to miss the sweet treats on offer.
Exploring the Food Stations
The MGM Grand Buffet is divided into various food stations, each offering a unique selection of dishes. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at each station.
Breakfast Station
The breakfast station at the MGM Grand Buffet is an absolute must-visit, especially if you’re an early riser. The variety here is staggering, and it’s the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring Las Vegas.
Classic Breakfast Favorites:
- Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage links, and hash browns.
- Pancakes, waffles, and French toast with a variety of toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, and syrup.
- Biscuits and gravy, a southern comfort food classic.
Omelet Station:
- You can customize your omelet with options such as ham, cheese, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and tomatoes.
- Friendly chefs prepare your omelet to order, ensuring it’s cooked just the way you like it.
Healthy Options:
- Greek yogurt, fresh fruit platters, and granola.
- Smoothies made to order with ingredients like kale, spinach, banana, and berries.
- Steel-cut oatmeal with a selection of toppings, including brown sugar, dried fruits, and nuts.
Bakery Selection:
- Freshly baked croissants, muffins, and pastries.
- Bagels with cream cheese, lox, and a selection of jams and butter.
- Donuts in a variety of flavors.
International Cuisine Station
The International Cuisine Station is where the MGM Grand Buffet truly shines, offering a world tour of flavors without leaving Las Vegas.
Asian Delights:
- Sushi rolls, including California rolls, spicy tuna, and veggie options.
- Dim sum favorites like pork buns, dumplings, and egg rolls.
- Stir-fried noodles and fried rice with your choice of vegetables, chicken, beef, or shrimp.
- Miso soup and seaweed salad as light starters.
Italian Classics:
- Freshly made pasta with a selection of sauces including marinara, Alfredo, and pesto.
- Wood-fired pizzas with toppings like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and olives.
- Garlic breadsticks and antipasti platters featuring cured meats, cheeses, and olives.
Mexican Fiesta:
- Tacos made to order with options like carne asada, grilled chicken, and pork carnitas.
- Nachos with a choice of toppings, including cheese, jalapeños, guacamole, and sour cream.
- Freshly made guacamole, salsa, and warm tortilla chips.
- Enchiladas with red or green sauce and various fillings.
Mediterranean Favorites:
- Hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki with pita bread.
- Grilled kebabs featuring lamb, chicken, and vegetables.
- Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Falafel and spanakopita for a taste of Greece.
Carving Station
The carving station is a meat lover’s paradise, offering a variety of slow-cooked, tender cuts of meat that are carved to order.
Prime Rib:
- Served with au jus and horseradish cream for that classic pairing.
- Accompanied by Yorkshire pudding and roasted vegetables.
Roast Turkey:
- Perfectly roasted turkey breast served with cranberry sauce and stuffing.
- Sweet potato casserole and green beans as traditional sides.
Honey-Glazed Ham:
- Sliced to order with a rich, sweet glaze.
- Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus.
Barbecue Brisket:
- Slow-cooked to perfection, served with tangy barbecue sauce.
- Coleslaw and cornbread as the perfect Southern accompaniments.
Seafood Station
For those who love the bounty of the sea, the seafood station at the MGM Grand Buffet is not to be missed.
Peel-and-Eat Shrimp:
- Fresh, chilled shrimp served with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
- Perfect for seafood lovers looking for a light, refreshing option.
Oysters on the Half Shell:
- Served with mignonette sauce, cocktail sauce, and lemon.
- Fresh and briny, a true taste of the ocean.
Snow Crab Legs:
- Steamed to perfection, served with drawn butter.
- A crowd favorite, especially for those who love cracking into these delicate shells.
Ceviche:
- A refreshing mix of shrimp, fish, lime, cilantro, and tomatoes.
- Light and zesty, perfect for those who enjoy citrusy seafood dishes.
Dessert Station
No meal at the MGM Grand Buffet would be complete without a visit to the dessert station. This area is a sweet tooth’s dream come true, offering a wide array of decadent treats.
Cakes and Pastries:
- Chocolate cake, carrot cake, and red velvet cake.
- Mini pastries like éclairs, cream puffs, and fruit tarts.
- Cheesecakes in various flavors, including classic New York and raspberry swirl.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar:
- Soft-serve ice cream with a variety of toppings, including hot fudge, caramel, sprinkles, and whipped cream.
- Freshly baked cookies and brownies to create your own ice cream sandwich.
Chocolate Fountain:
- Dip strawberries, marshmallows, and pretzels into a flowing fountain of rich, melted chocolate.
- A fun and interactive dessert experience for all ages.
Pies and Cobblers:
- Apple pie, cherry pie, and peach cobbler, all served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Seasonal fruit tarts and galettes for a lighter option.
Sugar-Free and Gluten-Free Options:
- Gluten-free brownies and cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
- Sugar-free cheesecake and pudding options that don’t compromise on flavor.
Live Cooking Stations: A Highlight of the MGM Grand Buffet
The live cooking stations are among the most exciting aspects of the MGM Grand Buffet. These stations offer freshly prepared dishes made to order right before your eyes, adding a personalized touch to your buffet experience.
Omelet Station
As mentioned earlier, the Omelet Station is a breakfast favorite, but it’s worth highlighting again because of the sheer variety and customization options available.
Customization Galore:
- Choose from a variety of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, and peppers.
- Meat lovers can add ham, bacon, or sausage to their omelet.
- Cheese options include cheddar, Swiss, and American.
- Your omelet is cooked to perfection right in front of you by skilled chefs.
Pasta Station
The Pasta Station is another crowd favorite, offering a range of freshly made pasta dishes that are both comforting and delicious.
- Pick Your Pasta: Choose from spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta.
- Select Your Sauce: Marinara, Alfredo, and pesto are the most popular, but you can also mix and match for a unique flavor.
- Add Your Protein: Options include grilled chicken, shrimp, or meatballs.
- Finish with Toppings: Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper, and fresh basil to add the finishing touches.
Stir-Fry Station
For those who enjoy Asian cuisine, the Stir-Fry Station is a must-visit. Here, you can create your own stir-fry dish from a selection of fresh ingredients.
- Choose Your Base: Options include white rice, brown rice, or noodles.
- Pick Your Protein: Chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
- Add Your Veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and mushrooms.
- Sauce It Up: Choose from teriyaki, soy sauce, or spicy Szechuan sauce.
- Watch the Magic Happen: Your ingredients are cooked to perfection on a hot wok right before your eyes.
Bottomless Drinks: A Toast to Unlimited Sips
One of the unique offerings at the MGM Grand Buffet is the option to add bottomless drinks to your meal. This is a popular choice, especially for those looking to indulge in some leisurely day drinking or to complement their meal with a variety of beverages.
What’s Included in the Bottomless Drinks Option?
Mimosas:
- Classic orange juice and champagne mix, perfect for brunch.
- Try variations with cranberry or pineapple juice for a fruity twist.
Bloody Marys:
- Spicy tomato juice, vodka, and a selection of garnishes, including celery, olives, and pickles.
- Customizable heat level to suit your preference.
Beer and Wine:
- A selection of domestic and imported beers, including light and dark options.
- House wines including reds, whites, and rosés.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages:
- Soft drinks, iced tea, and lemonade for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.
- Coffee, tea, and espresso to round out your meal.
Insider Tips for Visiting the MGM Grand Buffet
As a local who has frequented the MGM Grand Buffet many times, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit.
Timing is Everything
- Go Early: The buffet can get crowded, especially during peak meal times. Arriving early means shorter lines and fresher food.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Weekends and holidays are particularly busy, so if you prefer a more relaxed experience, try visiting on a weekday.
- Brunch Sweet Spot: If you arrive around 10:30 AM, you can often enjoy both breakfast and lunch options as the buffet transitions between meals.
Maximize Your Experience
- Pace Yourself: With so many options, it’s easy to overindulge quickly. Take smaller portions so you can sample a wider variety of dishes.
- Try Something New: The buffet is a great place to explore new cuisines or dishes you haven’t tried before.
- Save Room for Dessert: The dessert station is a highlight, so don’t fill up too quickly on the main courses.
Nearby Entertainment and Attractions
The MGM Grand is more than just a hotel and casino—it’s an entertainment hub. After your meal, there are plenty of things to see and do.
- Catch a Show: The MGM Grand is home to several top-tier shows, including Cirque du Soleil’s “KÀ”. It’s a great way to spend your evening after a hearty meal.
- Visit the Casino: Try your luck at the slots or table games in the MGM Grand Casino. Even if you’re not a big gambler, the atmosphere is electric and worth experiencing.
- Explore the Shops: The MGM Grand has a variety of shops where you can find everything from high-end fashion to unique souvenirs.
- Relax by the Pool: If you’re staying at the hotel, spend some time lounging by the pool. The Grand Pool Complex is one of the best in Las Vegas, with multiple pools, a lazy river, and plenty of cabanas for rent.
Planning Your Day Around the Buffet
- Pre-Buffet Activities: Consider starting your day with a light activity like a stroll down the Las Vegas Strip or a visit to the nearby Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.
- Post-Buffet Ideas: You might want to take it easy after your meal. A visit to the MGM Grand Spa for a massage or a relaxing treatment can be the perfect way to unwind.
- Evening Entertainment: Las Vegas comes alive at night, and the MGM Grand is at the heart of the action. Whether you’re into live music, comedy, or magic shows, there’s something for everyone.
A Must-Visit Culinary Destination
The MGM Grand Buffet at MGM Grand is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re indulging in the extensive breakfast selection, exploring the diverse international cuisine, or enjoying the live cooking stations, there’s something for everyone. With options like bottomless drinks and a dessert station that will satisfy any sweet tooth, it’s no wonder that the MGM Grand Buffet remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
As someone who has lived in Las Vegas for over two decades, I can confidently say that the MGM Grand Buffet is a must-visit, whether you’re a first-time tourist or a seasoned Vegas veteran. Plan your visit carefully, take your time to enjoy the variety of offerings, and make sure to take advantage of the nearby entertainment options to round out your day. The MGM Grand Buffet is not just a meal—it’s a Las Vegas experience you won’t want to miss.
