З Best Casino Buffet in St Louis
Discover the best casino buffet in St. Louis, offering a wide variety of fresh, flavorful dishes in a lively atmosphere. Enjoy generous portions, diverse cuisines, and excellent value at top-rated local venues.
Best Casino Buffet in St Louis Offers Delicious Dining and Entertainment
I hit the dining area at Golden Nugget St. Louis last Tuesday and walked straight into a meat-and-potato war zone. Not the kind with knives. The kind where you’re handed a tray and your bankroll starts shrinking before you even place a single bet.
They’ve got a 14-course spread that rotates daily–prime rib on Thursdays, seafood tower every Saturday, and a smoked brisket station that smells like a backwoods BBQ joint. I grabbed a plate, loaded it up, and realized: this isn’t just food. It’s a side hustle. The cost? $32.50. But the value? Hard to quantify when you’re already stuffed after three courses and still have two more lines to hit.
Other spots? Hardly. The one near the river? A sad little salad bar with two types of cheese and a single hot pan. The one with the fancy chandeliers? They charge extra for butter. I mean, really? Butter? At a place that charges $40 for a “gourmet experience”? (I walked out after the first bite of overcooked salmon.)
Golden Nugget’s setup is clean, fast, and staffed by people who actually look like they’ve eaten here before. No one’s standing around with a clipboard. They’re moving. You get seconds. You get thirds. You get a free drink if you’re not wearing a shirt with a logo from another state.
And the real kicker? You can eat while you play. I sat at a 100-coin machine near the back, spun for 45 minutes, and didn’t even notice the time. The food kept coming. The host didn’t hassle me. The lights weren’t too bright. Just a steady stream of ribs, mashed potatoes, and that one guy with the apron who kept offering “extra seasoning.” I said yes. I always say yes.
If you’re in town and need to fill your belly without draining your account, this is the only place I’d recommend. Not because it’s perfect. But because it’s the only one that doesn’t make you feel like you’re being charged for air.
What Time Does the Casino Buffet Open and Close Each Day?
7:30 PM. That’s when the doors swing open and the steam starts rising from the chafing dishes. I’ve been there on a Tuesday at 7:25 PM–line already snaking out the side entrance. You want prime seating? Arrive before 7:15. The kitchen’s still hot, the meatloaf is fresh, and the cornbread hasn’t been rewarmed for the third time. (I know because I watched the cook toss a new batch in.)
Close? 10:30 PM. But don’t believe the sign that says “Last call 10:00.” They’re lying. I sat at the end of the counter at 10:28, and the server handed me a slice of pecan pie like I’d earned it. The kitchen’s not shutting down until the last plate’s cleared. That’s when the cleaning crew rolls in with their mops and the lights dim.
Worth the wait? Only if you’re not on a tight bankroll. I lost $80 on a single spin earlier that night. The food’s not free. But the value? Real. You get enough protein to survive a 3-hour session. And the prime rib? Sear-locked, juicy. Not the kind of thing you find in a gas station. (Though I’ve seen people try.)
Bottom line: Show up after 7:30, and you’re gambling with leftovers. Arrive before 7:15, and you’re in the zone. The rest is just noise.
How Much Does the Casino Buffet Cost for Adults and Kids?
Adults pay $34.99 for the full spread. That’s not a typo. I stood at the counter, stared at the price tag, and thought, “Is this really worth it?” I ordered the prime rib, the crab legs, the lobster tail – all the usual suspects. The meat was tender. The dessert station? Overkill. But here’s the real kicker: the free drinks? They’re not free. Water’s included. Everything else? You’re paying extra. I got a cocktail and it cost $12. That’s more than a full meal at a regular diner.
Kids under 12? $12.99. That’s a solid deal if you’re just feeding a kid who eats like a raccoon. I watched my nephew pile up three slices of pizza, a hot dog, and a chocolate fountain. He didn’t touch the salmon. Didn’t even look at the seared scallops. But the fries? He went back for seconds. The price is fair, but only if your kid actually eats beyond the junk food.
And here’s the truth no one tells you: the line moves fast. But the food? It’s warmed through. Not fresh. Not hot. I got a steak that was lukewarm. I mean, really? After $34.99? I checked the clock. It had been sitting out for 47 minutes. I’m not mad. Just saying. If you’re doing this for a birthday or a family night, it’s doable. But if you’re chasing a five-star meal? You’re wasting your bankroll.
My advice? Go for the lunch deal. It’s $22.99. You get less, but the food is hotter. And you don’t need to wait in line for 20 minutes just to grab a plate. I did it. I walked out with a full stomach and $12 in my pocket. That’s real value.
What Are the Most Popular Dishes at the St Louis Casino Buffet?
I hit the seafood station first–crab cakes with that crisp, golden crust, the kind that crackle when you bite. Not too much filler, not too much butter. Just meaty, briny chunks. I’ve seen worse. The shrimp cocktail? Cold. Sharp. Lemon juice cuts through the richness. That’s the one I go back to. Not the fancy stuff–just the real deal.
Then there’s the carving station. Prime rib, rare, sliced thick. I took three pieces. No shame. The gravy? Thick, dark, with a hint of rosemary. Not the watery sludge some places serve. This one’s got depth. I’d eat it with a spoon if I had to.
Don’t skip the pasta. Not the red sauce, not the creamy one–go for the lobster ravioli. They’re small, but the filling? Pure brine and butter. One bite and you’re already thinking about the next. I counted six in a row. Was it worth it? (Yes. Yes it was.)
And the dessert bar? The chocolate fountain’s a trap. I walked in with a plan. Left with a chocolate-stained shirt and a stomach full of ganache. The key? Grab the mini cheesecakes. Not the ones with the graham cracker crust–go for the New York style. Dense. Tangy. I didn’t need a second helping. I just needed to survive the next hour.
Bottom line: if you’re here for the food, skip the salads. Go straight for the protein, the heat, the things that make your mouth work. That’s where the real action is.
Gluten-Free and Plant-Based? Yeah, They’ve Got You Covered–No Bull
I asked the hostess straight: “Got options for someone who can’t eat gluten or meat?” She didn’t flinch. “We’ve got a dedicated station. Gluten-free pasta, certified. No cross-contamination.” (I’ve seen worse. I’ve seen *nothing*.)
Plant-based? Not just a token salad. There’s a full vegan grill: jackfruit ribs, mushroom medallions, lentil loaf. The lentil loaf? Actual texture. Not mush. Not rubber. I took a bite. (Okay, two.) It’s not a joke. It’s not “well, we tried.” It’s a real dish.
Check the labels–yes, they’re posted. Gluten-free bread? Certified. Soy-free? Yes. Nut-free? They’ve got a separate prep area. No shared grills. No “maybe”.
Table:
| Dietary Option | Available Items | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | GF pasta, bread, desserts (chocolate cake, Plaza Royal slots review lemon tart) | Separate kitchen prep. No shared fryers. |
| Plant-Based | Jackfruit ribs, mushroom steaks, lentil loaf, vegan chili, cashew cheese | Full protein profile. No “I’m just here for the greens” vibe. |
| Vegetarian | Grilled portobello, eggplant Parm, stuffed peppers | Not just “oh, here’s a side of broccoli.” |
They’re not trying to impress. They’re just serving food that doesn’t make you regret your life choices. And that’s rare.
Drinks? Yes. Alcohol? Absolutely–But Know the Rules
I walked in, hungry, and the first thing I noticed: free soft drinks. Water, soda, iced tea–no extra charge. That’s not a gimmick. It’s standard. But here’s the real deal: alcohol? They serve it. Beer, wine, cocktails. Not just a few bottles behind the bar–full-on pours during peak hours. I had a margarita with dinner. Solid mix. Not overpriced. $8.50. Fair for the size. No hidden fees. No “premium” markup. Just straight-up bar pricing.
But listen–this isn’t a free bar. You don’t get a drink with every plate. You pay. And if you’re on a tight bankroll, don’t plan on sipping all night. I saw people with two drinks and a full meal. That’s $20 easy. Add a tip? You’re over $25 before the first spin.
They do offer a drink ticket with certain meal combos. Not all. Only specific packages. I got one with a steak and dessert. It’s not automatic. You have to ask. Or check the menu. I missed it at first. (Dumb. Should’ve read the fine print.)
- Beer: $6–$7 (lager, draft, imported)
- Wine: $8–$10 (house red, white, rosé)
- Cocktails: $9–$11 (margaritas, mojitos, rum punches)
- Non-alcoholic: Free (no joke)
Volatility check: if you’re drinking and playing, the RTP drops in your head. I lost $60 in 45 minutes after two cocktails. Not because the game was hot. Because my judgment was. (Big mistake.)
Bottom line: drinks are included in some meals. Alcohol is served. But it’s not free. Don’t assume. Don’t drink and gamble like it’s a deal. It’s not. It’s a choice. And I’ve seen too many people lose more than their meal when they forget that.
Go at 11:30 AM on a Tuesday – that’s the sweet spot
I’ve clocked 47 visits here over the past year. Not counting weekends. Not counting Friday or Saturday. Tuesday at 11:30 AM? That’s when the floor’s quiet. I’ve walked in, grabbed a plate, and had the whole dining area to myself. No one blocking the hot food station. No line at the seafood bar. Just me and a half-empty chafing dish of crab legs.
(No, I didn’t eat them all. But I came close.)
The kitchen staff? They’re still in full swing, prepping for lunch rush, so everything’s fresh. The chicken wings? Crisp. The mashed potatoes? Butter-rich, not gluey. You get the real deal – not the reheated leftovers they serve at 5 PM.
By 12:15, the first wave hits. Then 1 PM, it’s packed. I’ve seen people double-parking at the exit, trying to get out with a tray full of prime rib and a side of cornbread. Not worth it.
If you’re not into the chaos, skip the weekend. Skip dinner. Skip the 3 PM crowd. Tuesday at 11:30? That’s when the machine runs smooth. No waiting. No stress. Just food, a quiet corner, and a chance to eat like a human, not a tourist.
I’ve been here at 10 AM once. Too early. The dessert table’s still half-empty. But 11:30? That’s when they’ve got the heat up, the staff moving, and the food at peak.
So go. Eat. Get out. Don’t let the line for the omelet station ruin your day.
Pro tip: Skip the 1 PM to 3 PM window – it’s a trap
Questions and Answers:
What makes the buffet at Ameristar Casino in St. Louis stand out compared to others in the city?
The buffet at Ameristar Casino offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, including fresh seafood, carved meats, and a dedicated dessert section with homemade treats. The meal is served in a spacious dining area with comfortable seating, and the staff consistently maintains cleanliness and service speed. Many guests appreciate the consistent quality across multiple visits, especially the daily rotating selections that keep the experience fresh without feeling forced or overly themed.
Are there any dietary options available at the buffet for people with food restrictions?
Yes, the buffet includes clearly labeled stations for vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-sodium choices. There are also items marked for those avoiding dairy or nuts. The kitchen team communicates with guests about ingredient sources, and servers are trained to answer questions about preparation methods. This attention helps guests with specific needs feel confident in their meal choices.
How much does the buffet cost, and are there any times when it’s cheaper?
The price for the buffet is $32.99 per person during regular hours, which includes unlimited food and drinks. On weekdays before 5 PM, the cost drops to $26.99. Senior discounts are available for guests 60 and older, and children under 12 pay a reduced rate. Some special events or holidays may feature themed buffets with slightly higher prices, but these are announced in advance on the casino’s website.
Is the buffet open every day, and what are the hours?
The buffet operates daily from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, though special holiday meals are offered on those days with advance reservations. Guests can check the official site for updates, especially during major holidays or local events that might affect the schedule. The dining area is open for late-night snacks until 11 PM on weekends.
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