Living in Las Vegas for over two decades, I’ve had the pleasure of watching the city’s culinary scene evolve. Amidst the array of high-end dining options and extravagant buffets, there’s something incredibly satisfying about finding a gem that delivers quality, variety, and value. A.Y.C.E. Buffet at Palms Casino Resort is one of those rare finds. Nestled just off the Strip, this buffet offers a modern, clean design, a wide range of themed stations, and a price tag that won’t break the bank.
Whether you’re a local looking for a regular dining spot or a visitor searching for a budget-friendly buffet experience, A.Y.C.E Buffet is a place where you can enjoy a feast without compromising on quality. Let’s explore what makes this buffet a standout and how to make the most of your visit.
Modern Design and Comfortable Ambience: Setting the Scene
Walking into the A.Y.C.E Buffet, you’ll first notice the sleek, contemporary design. A.Y.C.E offers a clean and modern aesthetic unlike the overly opulent or themed buffets you might find elsewhere in Vegas. The space is well-lit with a mix of natural and ambient lighting, and the layout is both inviting and functional.
Comfortable Seating and Thoughtful Layout
The seating is designed for comfort, with a variety of options from cozy booths to larger tables for groups. The layout is intuitive, with each station clearly marked and easily accessible:
- Open Kitchen Concept: Watch chefs prepare food in real time, adding an interactive element to your dining experience.
- Wide Aisles: Even during peak times, there’s plenty of space to navigate between stations without feeling cramped.
- Natural Lighting: Large windows allow plenty of daylight in, making the space feel bright and airy.
Themed Stations: A Culinary Tour Around the World
A.Y.C.E Buffet is divided into several themed stations, each offering a unique selection of dishes inspired by different cuisines. This setup enhances the variety and ensures that each dish is prepared with attention to detail. Here’s a breakdown of the stations you’ll find:
The Greenery: Fresh and Healthy
Start your meal by visiting The Greenery, where you’ll find a variety of fresh salads, vegetables, and light bites.
- Mixed Greens: A selection of lettuce, spinach, and arugula with toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots.
- Pre-Made Salads: Classic Caesar salad, Greek salad with feta and olives, and a refreshing quinoa salad.
- Dressings and Toppings: Ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, blue cheese, croutons, sunflower seeds, and parmesan cheese.
- Cold Cuts and Cheeses: Sliced turkey, ham, salami, and an assortment of cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, and blue cheese.
The Hearth: Comfort Food and Rotisserie
The Hearth is all about hearty, comforting dishes that remind you of home-cooked meals.
- Rotisserie Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, available in traditional and herb-marinated varieties.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
- Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: Buttery mashed potatoes served with a rich gravy.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs and olive oil.
- BBQ Ribs: Tender pork ribs glazed with a sweet, tangy barbecue sauce.
The World Pan: International Flavors
The World Pan station brings together a variety of global cuisines, offering a little something for everyone.
- Asian Stir-Fry: Customize your stir-fry with a selection of vegetables, proteins (chicken, beef, tofu), and sauces (teriyaki, soy, sweet chili).
- Sushi and Sashimi: A selection of fresh rolls, including California rolls, spicy tuna, and salmon sashimi.
- Indian Cuisine: Dishes like chicken tikka masala, vegetable curry, and basmati rice.
- Italian Pasta Bar: Choose from penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti with marinara, Alfredo, or pesto sauces.
- Mexican Fiesta: Tacos with beef, chicken, or pork alongside guacamole, salsa, and freshly fried tortilla chips.
The Smoke & Fire: BBQ and Grilled Specialties
The Smoke & Fire station is a must-visit for those who love smoky, grilled flavors.
- Brisket: Slow-cooked to perfection, served with a choice of BBQ sauces.
- Pulled Pork: Juicy pulled pork, perfect for sandwiches or by itself.
- Grilled Sausages: A variety of sausages, including bratwurst, Italian, and chorizo.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, served warm.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions charred on the grill.
The Revival: Vegan and Vegetarian Options
A.Y.C.E Buffet also caters to those looking for plant-based meals, with The Revival station offering a variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
- Vegan Lasagna: Layers of pasta with vegetables, vegan cheese, and marinara sauce.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, black beans, and corn.
- Vegetarian Chili: A hearty chili made with beans, tomatoes, and spices.
- Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned with curry powder and roasted until crispy.
- Vegan Desserts: Options like coconut milk, panna cotta, and fruit sorbet.
The Sea: Fresh Seafood Delights
Seafood lovers will find plenty to enjoy at The Sea Station, which offers a variety of oceanic treats.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Chilled shrimp served with tangy cocktail sauce.
- Oysters on the Half Shell: Freshly shucked and served with mignonette and lemon wedges.
- Grilled Salmon: Fillets of salmon with a lemon-dill butter sauce.
- Crab Legs: Steamed crab legs served with drawn butter.
- Seafood Paella: A Spanish-inspired dish with saffron rice, shrimp, mussels, and chorizo.
Sweet & Light: Desserts and Sweet Treats
No meal is complete without dessert, and Sweet & Light offers a wide array of indulgent options.
- Cakes and Pies: A selection of classic desserts like chocolate cake, New York cheesecake, and key lime pie.
- Ice Cream Station: Soft serve in vanilla, chocolate, and swirl, with toppings like sprinkles, hot fudge, and whipped cream.
- Pastries and Cookies: Freshly baked cookies, brownies, and pastries.
- Crepe Station (Live Cooking): Made-to-order crepes with fillings like Nutella, strawberries, and bananas.
- Sugar-Free Options: Desserts like fruit parfaits and sugar-free chocolate mousse for those watching their sugar intake.
Other Food Stations Worth Visiting
These additional stations further highlight the extensive variety offered at A.Y.C.E Buffet, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, regardless of culinary preference or dietary restrictions. This attention to diversity in food offerings is one of the key reasons why the A.Y.C.E Buffet stands out in Las Vegas.
The Wok This Way: Asian Specialties
While the “World Pan” station was mentioned earlier, it’s worth noting that the A.Y.C.E Buffet often has a dedicated station specifically for Asian cuisine, offering more than just stir-fry:
- Dim Sum: Steamed dumplings, bao buns, and spring rolls.
- Noodle Bar: Options like chow mein and pad thai, with a selection of proteins and vegetables.
- Pho Station: Build your own bowl with rice noodles, beef, chicken, or tofu, topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime.
The Chilled: Cold Seafood and Salads
This station emphasizes fresh and chilled options that are perfect for starting your meal:
- Chilled Crab Legs: Served cold alongside cocktail sauce and lemon.
- Seafood Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juice with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
- Assorted Salads: In addition to the typical mixed greens, you might find a variety of pre-prepared cold salads, like potato salad, couscous, and tabbouleh.
The Red Plate: Carving and Grilling
This station focuses on premium cuts of meat, often freshly carved to order:
- Prime Rib: Served medium-rare with a side of au jus and horseradish.
- Leg of Lamb: Sliced and served with mint jelly or herb sauce.
- Grilled Steaks: Options include ribeye or sirloin, cooked to your preferred doneness.
The Blue Plate: Classic American Dishes
This station serves American comfort food classics, providing a bit of nostalgia:
- Fried Chicken: Crispy and golden, a staple of American comfort cuisine.
- Chicken Pot Pie: Flaky crust filled with creamy chicken and vegetables.
- Biscuits and Gravy: Southern-style biscuits topped with a rich sausage gravy.
The Sweets and Treats: Dessert Station
In addition to the previously mentioned dessert offerings, there are often more specialized sweet treats:
- Chocolate Fountain: Dip fruits, marshmallows, and other goodies into a flowing fountain of chocolate.
- Gourmet Cupcakes: Decorated with a variety of frostings and toppings.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Bite-sized cheesecakes with toppings like berry compote or caramel drizzle.
- Bread Pudding: A rich, custard-soaked bread pudding often served warm with a vanilla sauce.
The Farm Stand: Vegan and Vegetarian Fresh Options
This station focuses on farm-fresh ingredients and plant-based dishes:
- Grain Bowls: Customize your bowl with quinoa, farro, or barley, and add vegetables, beans, and dressings.
- Vegan Tacos: Corn tortillas filled with grilled vegetables, black beans, and avocado.
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts: Tossed with balsamic glaze and roasted until crispy.
The Charcuterie and Cheese: Artisan Selection
For those who appreciate finer bites, this station offers:
- Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo.
- Artisan Cheeses: A variety of cheeses, from sharp cheddars to creamy bries.
- Accompaniments: Dried fruits, nuts, and crackers to pair with your charcuterie and cheese.
Live Cooking Stations Recap:
In addition to the stations themselves, A.Y.C.E often features live cooking stations, which can vary depending on the time of day:
- Crepe Station: Freshly made crepes with various sweet fillings.
- Omelet Station (Breakfast): Custom omelets with a variety of fillings.
- Noodle Bar: Custom stir-fries or pho with your choice of ingredients.
Live Cooking Stations for a Unique Touch
These stations allow guests to have their meals prepared fresh, right in front of them, ensuring a personalized touch to each dish. Here’s a detailed look at the live cooking stations available at the buffet:
Omelet Station (Breakfast)
This live cooking station is a staple during the breakfast service and is perfect for egg lovers.
- Custom Omelets: Guests can choose from a variety of fillings such as ham, bacon, cheese, mushrooms, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and spinach. The chefs will cook the omelet to your liking—whether you prefer it fluffy or slightly browned.
- Fried or Scrambled Eggs: If omelets aren’t your thing, you can request your eggs fried sunny-side-up, over-easy, or scrambled with your preferred ingredients.
Pho and Noodle Bar (Lunch and Dinner)
A highlight of the Asian-themed offerings, this station allows guests to customize their own noodle dishes.
- Pho Station: Choose from a variety of broths (beef, chicken, or vegetable) and add your preferred noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles). Customize your pho with a selection of proteins such as thinly sliced beef, chicken, tofu, or shrimp. Finish it off with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili peppers.
- Stir-Fry Noodle Bar: Select your vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas), protein (chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu), and sauce (teriyaki, soy, garlic, or sweet chili). The chef will then stir-fry your ingredients on a hot wok to create a dish tailored to your taste.
Carving Station (Lunch and Dinner)
The Carving Station is where meat lovers can indulge in freshly sliced cuts of premium meats.
- Prime Rib: Served medium-rare to well-done, with options for au jus and horseradish sauce on the side.
- Roast Turkey: Perfectly roasted turkey breast served with cranberry sauce and gravy.
- Leg of Lamb: Tender lamb carved to order, often served with mint jelly or a herb-infused sauce.
- Grilled Steaks: Select from ribeye or sirloin, grilled to your preferred level of doneness.
Crepe Station (Dessert)
This live cooking station is a sweet finale to your meal, offering custom-made crepes.
- Made-to-Order Crepes: Choose your crepe fillings such as Nutella, fresh strawberries, bananas, or whipped cream. The chefs will cook the crepe on a hot griddle, ensuring it’s perfectly golden and filled with your chosen ingredients.
- Toppings: For an extra indulgent treat, top your crepe with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Grilled Meat Station (Smoke & Fire)
This station focuses on smoky, grilled flavors and is a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts.
- Grilled Sausages: Select from bratwurst, chorizo, or Italian sausage, grilled to perfection and served with a variety of mustards and relishes.
- BBQ Ribs: Pork ribs are grilled and basted with a sweet, tangy barbecue sauce, then carved to order.
- Chicken Wings: Freshly grilled wings tossed in your choice of sauce, such as buffalo, BBQ, or garlic parmesan.
Pasta Station (World Pan)
At this station, pasta is prepared fresh with a variety of sauces and ingredients to choose from.
- Custom Pasta Dishes: Pick your pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti) and sauce (marinara, Alfredo, or pesto). Add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage and vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. The chef will sauté everything together for a perfectly balanced dish.
- Risotto: Some nights, you might find a risotto option cooked to order with additions like mushrooms, seafood, or truffle oil.
These live cooking stations are designed to elevate your buffet experience at A.Y.C.E Buffet by offering freshly prepared dishes that cater to your specific tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast omelet, a customized bowl of pho, or a made-to-order crepe, the live stations ensure that your meal is personalized and prepared with care. This level of customization, combined with the wide variety of options, is what makes A.Y.C.E Buffet a standout dining destination in Las Vegas.
Budget-Friendly Dining: Quality Without Compromise
One of the standout features of A.Y.C.E Buffet is its affordability. Despite the wide variety of dishes and the quality of the food, the buffet remains budget-friendly, making it a great option for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a hearty meal without overspending.
Tips for Getting the Best Value
Here are some tips to make the most of your dining experience at A.Y.C.E Buffet:
- Go During Off-Peak Hours: To avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, try visiting during non-peak hours, such as late breakfast or early dinner.
- Sign Up for Casino Rewards: Palms Casino Resort often offers discounts or promotions for members of their rewards program. Sign up to take advantage of these offers.
- Pace Yourself: With so many options, getting overwhelmed is easy. Start with smaller portions and sample various dishes before returning for your favorites.
Nearby Entertainment and Attractions: Extend Your Visit
The Palms Casino Resort is more than just a place to eat. It’s a hub of entertainment and leisure, offering plenty of activities to enjoy before or after your meal.
Before Your Meal: Work Up an Appetite
Consider these activities before heading to A.Y.C.E Buffet:
- The Pearl Concert Theater: Check out the schedule for live performances, ranging from big-name bands to comedy shows.
- Drift Spa & Hammam: Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment to unwind before your meal.
- Palms Casino: Try your luck at the slots or table games in the casino. Who knows, you might win enough to cover your buffet!
After Your Meal: Digest and Explore
After a satisfying meal, take it easy with these options:
- Cinema at Palms: Catch the latest blockbuster or an indie film at the on-site movie theater.
- Ghostbar: Head up to the rooftop bar for stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip and a stylish cocktail to finish off your night.
- KAOS Dayclub & Nightclub: For those looking to keep the party going, KAOS offers both day and night experiences with top DJs and a lively atmosphere.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Day
- Arrive Early: Arriving early is key to a relaxed experience, especially if you plan to explore the entertainment options afterward.
- Dress Comfortably: While the Palms is an upscale resort, A.Y.C.E Buffet has a casual vibe. Comfortable attire is recommended, particularly if you’re planning to explore afterward.
- Stay Hydrated: Las Vegas is in the desert, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water, especially if you’re indulging in the variety of rich foods available at the buffet.
Why A.Y.C.E Buffet at Palms Casino Resort Should Be on Your List
A.Y.C.E Buffet at Palms Casino Resort is a hidden gem in the Las Vegas buffet scene. With its modern design, a wide variety of themed stations, and budget-friendly pricing, it offers an exceptional dining experience without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re a local like me or a visitor looking to enjoy the best of Vegas dining, this buffet is a must-visit. The variety of cuisines ensures that there’s something for everyone, and the quality of the food is consistently high, making it a great choice for any meal.
Combine this with the nearby entertainment options, and you have the perfect recipe for a memorable day in Las Vegas. So, the next time you’re craving a buffet experience that delivers on quality, variety, and value, head over to A.Y.C.E Buffet at Palms Casino Resort—you won’t be disappointed.
