Is there anything better than a fantastic all-you-can-eat buffet? The variety, the ease, and the joy of going back for seconds (and thirds) make buffets a favorite for many. Despite the challenges buffet restaurants faced during the pandemic, they are making a triumphant return, much to the delight of food lovers everywhere.
Michigan’s Top Buffet
According to Reader’s Digest, The Assembly Line in Detroit has been named Michigan’s Best All-You-Can-Eat Buffet. Located inside the Motor City Casino, this buffet not only offers an incredible array of dishes but also captures the spirit of Michigan’s rich automotive history.
What Makes The Assembly Line Special?
The Assembly Line is inspired by Michigan’s auto factories and offers a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. This unique dining experience allows you to sample a bit of everything.
Whether you’re in the mood for freshly rolled sushi, warm bread straight from the oven, a hearty carvery, or even a seafood night with crab legs, The Assembly Line has something to please every palate. It’s this extraordinary variety that keeps people coming back for more.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re a Detroit local or a visitor exploring the city, The Assembly Line is a dining destination you won’t want to miss. Its extensive food options and unique atmosphere make it a standout spot in Detroit. Be sure to add it to your dining bucket list for an unforgettable experience!
Iconic Mall Food Court Restaurants
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic mall food court restaurants from the ’80s and ’90s. These eateries have not only shaped our shopping experiences but also hold a special place in our hearts.
- Auntie Anne’s Pretzels: Starting in a Pennsylvania farmer’s market in 1988, Auntie Anne’s has grown to over 1,200 locations. Known for its warm, delicious pretzels, it’s a mall favorite.
- The Great Steak and Potato Company: This chain, famous for its hot fries and Philly Cheesesteaks, now operates as ‘Great Steak,’ continuing to serve up the gooey, cheesy sandwiches that made it popular.
- Chick-fil-A: Many of us had our first taste of Chick-fil-A in mall food courts, with their iconic chicken sandwiches becoming a staple for shoppers.
- Morrison’s Cafeteria: This all-you-can-eat chain was a Southern mall favorite before being acquired by Piccadilly in the late 1980s.
- KaramelKorn: Known for its sweet and savory popcorn varieties, KaramelKorn remains a beloved snack option in malls.
- Sarku Japan: Specializing in chicken and rice bowls, Sarku Japan continues to serve thousands of customers across the U.S.
- Wetzel’s Pretzels: Since 1994, Wetzel’s Pretzels has delighted customers with its warm, freshly made pretzels, now operating over 340 locations worldwide.
- Mrs. Field’s Cookies: Famous for its irresistible, fresh-baked cookies, Mrs. Field’s has grown to over 250 franchise locations worldwide.
- Panda Express: Serving favorites like orange chicken and egg rolls since 1983, Panda Express is a staple in mall food courts across the country.
- Piccadilly: Despite many closures, this cafeteria chain still operates in several Southern states, thanks to a loyal fanbase.
- Orange Julius: Known as the grandfather of smoothies, Orange Julius was fiercely franchised in the ’70s and ’80s and now operates over 5,000 locations worldwide.
- Manchu Wok: Founded in Canada in 1980, this Chinese food favorite is still found in many American malls.
- Hot Dog on a Stick: Famous for corn dogs and lemonade, this chain now has over 35 locations across the U.S.
- Subway: Subway’s presence in American malls introduced many to its sandwiches before the days of the five-dollar footlong.
These iconic restaurants have left a lasting impact on mall culture, blending delicious food with a sense of nostalgia. They remind us of the joy of shopping and dining, offering comfort food that has stood the test of time.