Buffets across metro Detroit such as Golden Corral, Fuji Japanese Buffet, El Fogon and Lillie Mae’s are offering kid-friendly menus and set pricing that help explain why these spots stand out for families looking for variety and value.
For parents, buffets can solve the problem of feeding kids with different tastes and appetites in one sitting. With predictable prices, flexible hours and a mix of familiar dishes alongside new options, Detroit-area buffets give families the chance to eat out without worrying whether every child will find something on the menu.
Updated October 2025
Fuji Japanese Buffet: Sushi and seafood in Madison Heights
Fuji Japanese Buffet markets itself as Michigan’s first Japanese seafood buffet, according to Fuji Japanese Buffet. Their menu includes sushi, sashimi, hot Asian dishes and dim sum.
The kids pricing is modest (children 3-10 years have per-year pricing, etc.) The buffet menu includes standard sushi bar fare.
Hours:
- 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday
- 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday
Address: Madison Place, 32153 John R Road, Madison Heights, MI
What’s good: This place gives kids a chance to try sushi in a friendly way. If your child is comfortable with seafood, the variety can be exciting. Also the hot dishes beyond sushi make it less intimidating for kids who want cooked food.
What to watch: Raw fish is part of the food mix. Make sure to verify whether items are cooked or raw before letting younger kids pick them. Also, some kids may be overwhelmed by the variety. Guide them toward sushi rolls with cooked ingredients or simpler dishes first.
Age/ability fit: Kids who are new to sushi or raw fish may benefit from the cooked hot dishes first; the layout can appeal to a wider age range.
El Fogon Authentic Mexican Grill: a buffet with Tex-Mex flair
El Fogon has a more casual, Mexican cuisine approach. Their “Little Amigos” kid’s menu includes tacos served with rice and beans, dinosaur chicken with fries, veggie quesadillas and burritos, according to El Fogon.
Hours:
- Closed Monday
- 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday
- 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
Address: 31081 Hayes Road, Warren, MI
What’s good: it’s familiar flavors for many kids — tacos and quesadillas — with sides like rice and beans. Also you can steer them toward more balanced plates by selecting beans and grilled items rather than fried.
What to watch: Mexican food tends to use spices, sometimes hot sauces. Ask about mild versions. Watch sodium in cheese or seasoned meats. Also the buffet may include heavier sauces and fried options, so help guide your child’s plate.
Age/ability fit: This setup often works well for elementary-aged kids who are comfortable with taco flavors; toddlers might need simpler or deconstructed plates.
Golden Corral: a classic for variety and balance
Golden Corral is a nationwide buffet chain known for offering a wide selection of foods. Their website says the buffet includes “almost 150 items” covering meat, veggies, plant-based diets and more, according to Golden Corral. For kids, their menu includes things like chicken tenders, fried chicken and grilled cheese.
Hours:
- 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday–Friday
- 8 a.m.–9 p.m. Saturday–Sunday
Address: 3 locations:
- 37101 Warren Road, Westland, MI
- 14691 Huron St., Taylor, MI
- 15220 Hall Road, Clinton Township, MI
What’s good: The wide selection means even picky eaters can usually find something they’ll try. The salad bar, sides and simpler proteins are helpful for balancing meals.
What to watch: With such a large spread, it’s easy for kids to load up on fried or high-sodium items. As a parent, walk the buffet with them first, point out milder options. Also confirm that desserts and sugary items are clearly separate so it’s easier to limit them.
Pricing context: According to Golden Corral’s 2025 pricing page, children ages 4-8 pay about $8.99 for breakfast and lunch and $10.49 for dinner (drink not included). Children ages 9-12 pay $9.99 for breakfast and lunch and $11.49 for dinner.
Age/ability fit: This mix tends to suit early elementary kids well; older kids may gravitate toward specific stations or desserts.
Lillie Mae’s Southern Buffet: homestyle comfort
Lillie Mae’s Southern Buffet in Southfield offers southern sides, smoked or smothered meats and traditional home cooking.
Their site notes they use local farms for vegetables, and that all southern sides are prepared without meat. Fried menu items are cooked in rice bran oil, which is a somewhat healthier choice, according to Lillie Mae’s Southern Buffet.
Hours:
- Closed Monday
- 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday
Address: 29221 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, MI
What’s good: Kids who enjoy comfort food — mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and sweet potato casserole — may feel right at home. The farm-sourced side dishes and gentler preparation of vegetables are a plus. The buffet and sit-down option gives you flexibility if you want to control portion sizes more.
What to watch: Southern cuisine often includes heavier sauces, gravies and fried meat. Help guide kids toward grilled or baked proteins (if available), steamed or roasted veggies and lighter sides. Also check what day they’re open, according to Yelp.
Age/ability fit: This style tends to appeal to younger elementary kids who enjoy familiar, softer foods; teens might expect more adventurous flavors.
How to make the most of a buffet with kids
- Before you go, check the restaurant’s current hours, as buffets sometimes change schedules.
- Walk your child through the buffet line with them. Point out safe first picks — steamed vegetables, plain rice, grilled items — before they hit the desserts.
- Ask questions: Is this item cooked fresh, or was it sitting out a long time? What sauces are on the side? Can they do mild versions?
- Set a snack buffer before going. If kids come in super hungry, they may grab high-calorie items first. Let them sip water or have a small fruit before walking the line.
- Balance their plate: Aim for protein, vegetables and a favorite small side. Use dessert as a treat, not the centerpiece.
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