Excalibur Buffet Review

Overview

Located in the iconic Excalibur Hotel & Casino, the Excalibur Buffet offers a classic Las Vegas all-you-can-eat experience with a medieval twist. As one of the Strip's more affordable buffet options, it attracts families, budget-conscious travelers, and those seeking a casual dining experience without breaking the bank. The buffet operates with a straightforward approach: generous portions, diverse stations, and a lively atmosphere that matches the hotel's Arthurian theme.

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Step into a realm of faux-stone arches, wrought-iron chandeliers, and heraldic banners that transport you to a king's banquet hall—albeit with the constant hum of slot machines nearby. The dining area is spacious with both booth and table seating, though it can get noisy during peak hours. The medieval decor is charmingly kitschy but feels dated compared to modern Strip buffets. Natural light is limited, creating a perpetually festive, if somewhat dim, environment.

Food Quality & Variety

The buffet features eight distinct stations: carving, Italian, Asian, Mexican, American comfort, salad bar, dessert, and a children's section. Highlights include the prime rib at the carving station—tender, well-seasoned, and consistently replenished—and the made-to-order pasta station where you can customize your dish with sauces like Alfredo or marinara. The Asian station offers decent sweet-and-sour chicken and fried rice, though the sushi selection is basic (California rolls and nigiri). Mexican options like build-your-own tacos are crowd-pleasers, with fresh toppings and seasoned ground beef.

However, some items suffer from typical buffet pitfalls. Fried foods (e.g., chicken tenders, egg rolls) can be greasy if left under heat lamps too long, and the pizza tends toward the generic. Desserts are a mixed bag: the soft-serve ice cream and chocolate fountain are hits with kids, but cakes and pastries often taste mass-produced. Breakfast service includes made-to-order omelets and fluffy pancakes, while dinner adds seafood like snow crab legs (seasonal) and shrimp.

Service & Cleanliness

Staff are efficient and friendly, quickly clearing plates and refilling drinks. During busy times, waits can exceed 30 minutes, but the line moves steadily. Tables are promptly cleaned between guests, and food stations are regularly restocked. However, the sheer volume of diners means occasional spills or clutter in high-traffic areas.

Value for Money

Pricing is competitive: breakfast averages $25, lunch $30, and dinner $40 (prices vary by day and season). Given the variety and unlimited servings, it's a solid value for families and hearty eaters. While not gourmet, the quality is consistent with the price point. Look for player's club discounts or online deals to save 10–20%.

Practical Information

Hours: Breakfast: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM; Lunch: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Dinner: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM (extended hours on weekends).
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for shorter lines; avoid holiday weekends.
Parking: Validated self-parking available in the Excalibur garage.

Recommendations

Families: Ideal for picky eaters and budget-friendly meals. The children’s section (mac ’n’ cheese, chicken nuggets) and dessert fountain will delight kids.
Budget Travelers: One of the Strip’s cheaper buffets—fill up here before exploring.
Groups: Spacious seating accommodates large parties, but arrive early to avoid fragmentation.
Gourmands: Skip this; opt for upscale buffets like Wicked Spoon or Bacchanal for finer quality.

Final Verdict

The Excalibur Buffet won’t dazzle food critics, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a reliable, varied, and fun feast in a themed setting. It’s a testament to old-school Vegas buffets—unpretentious, abundant, and perfect for those prioritizing quantity and convenience over culinary artistry.