[[{“value”:”Anyone lucky enough to have experienced the 80s and 90s Pizza Hut buffet will understand how magical the experience was (we truly didn’t appreciate it enough at the time). These days there are still a few classic buffet chains still in operation; chugging along despite big changes in consumer habits and preferences. These chains not only have major nostalgic value, but they still serve food diners appreciate, from endless pizza to all-you-can-eat breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you’re in the mood for a truly old-school experience, here are five buffet chains still operating decades after they first launched.
Cicis Pizza
Cicis Pizza has been in operation since 1985, and many diners still have fond memories of the place. “I mean their pizza is by no means top quality you would get from an italian wood fired pizza oven but they have a load of popular tasty pizzas that easily contest anything from dominos/pizza hut/etc,” one Redditor said. “Their bbq chicken and macaroni pizzas even have genuine cult followings.”
Ponderosa
A handful of Ponderosa buffets still exist, down from nearly 750 locations in the 80s and 90s, and diners have fond memories of childhood trips to the chain. “Ponderosa and Sizzler were considered Michelin star restaurants for my cash strapped family!” one shared.
RELATED: America’s 10 Oldest Restaurant Chains That Are Still Thriving
Shoney’s
Shoney’s has been around since 1947 and is still serving up comfort food classics diners love. “Never forget those French toast sticks as a kid after church,” one fan said. “Used to eat there on Wednesdays and captain D’s on Thursdays. For a stretch she those were the kids eat free nights in the 90’s,” one shared.
Golden Corral
Golden Corral has been serving up delicious buffet classics since 1973, and is still going strong. “My first experience at golden corral was during the safety patrol field trip to DC. I was either 11 or 12. It was amazing. I thought I was in heaven. Why would anyone go anywhere else to eat?” one fan recalled.
Bonanza Steakhouse
Bonanza Steakhouse had hundreds of locations in its heyday, but like Ponderosa, just a handful remain now. “Sliding that tray through to get to those buttered rolls was an experience I still long for,” one Redditor said. “My best friend in Jr High and HS, his parents owned the Bonanza in town. Many happy memories there,” another commented.
The post 5 Buffet Chains From Your Childhood That Are Still Open appeared first on Eat This Not That.”}]]