Chinatown Buffet in Champaign stands out as a culinary landmark, drawing locals, families, students, and visitors with its vast array of Asian-inspired delights. The moment you step inside, the lively atmosphere and tantalizing aromas hint at the diversity and quality waiting on the menu.
From sizzling stir-fries to delicate sushi rolls, the buffet offers a journey through the flavors of China, Japan, and beyond—all under one roof. The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and variety ensures that every meal is a new adventure, whether you’re sampling a personal favorite or exploring something entirely new.
What truly sets Chinatown Buffet apart is its ability to bring people together over shared plates and communal enjoyment. Its menu is thoughtfully curated, offering options for every palate and dietary preference, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
Whether you crave traditional Chinese comfort food or fusion-inspired creations, Chinatown Buffet has something to satisfy every craving. The friendly staff and inviting environment make dining here more than just a meal; it becomes a memorable experience that keeps guests returning time and time again.
Signature Chinese Entrees
Chinatown Buffet’s heart lies in its signature Chinese entrees, which reflect authentic recipes and bold flavors. From classic stir-fried dishes to slow-cooked specialties, these entrees showcase the kitchen’s dedication to both tradition and innovation.
One of the highlights is the General Tso’s Chicken, a crowd-pleaser featuring crispy battered chicken tossed in a tangy, sweet sauce with a subtle kick of heat. The Orange Chicken offers a citrus-infused alternative, delivering balance between savory and sweet.
For those seeking a richer, more complex taste, the Beef with Broccoli is a go-to, with tender beef slices paired perfectly with vibrant broccoli florets and a savory garlic sauce.
Vegetarians aren’t left out, thanks to dishes like Mapo Tofu and Vegetable Lo Mein, which are both hearty and flavorful. The chefs ensure that each dish is cooked in small batches, maintaining quality and freshness throughout service.
This attention to detail is apparent with every bite.
“Every dish we prepare is a celebration of our culinary heritage,” shares Chef Liu, one of Chinatown Buffet’s lead cooks. “Our goal is to blend tradition with creativity, making sure every guest finds something to love.”
- General Tso’s Chicken – a crispy, spicy favorite
- Orange Chicken – sweet, zesty, and satisfying
- Beef with Broccoli – rich, savory, and comforting
- Mapo Tofu – a spicy, vegetarian delight
- Vegetable Lo Mein – loaded with fresh veggies and noodles
Fresh Sushi and Seafood Bar
The sushi and seafood bar at Chinatown Buffet is a destination in itself, offering an impressive selection of carefully crafted rolls, sashimi, and fresh seafood options. Sushi chefs work continuously, ensuring replenishment and top-tier freshness.
Traditional rolls like the California Roll and Spicy Tuna Roll are always popular, but adventurous diners can explore house specialties such as the Dragon Roll and Rainbow Roll. Each piece is made with premium ingredients, from perfectly seasoned rice to fresh fish and crisp vegetables.
The presentation is as appealing as the taste, with colorful garnishes and precision cuts.
Seafood lovers can also indulge in steamed shrimp, crab legs, and mussels, which are kept at optimal temperatures and seasoned to bring out their natural flavors. The seafood bar is replenished often, ensuring a steady supply of the freshest options throughout the day.
| Sushi Roll | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| California Roll | Crab, avocado, cucumber | Mild, creamy |
| Spicy Tuna Roll | Tuna, spicy mayo, cucumber | Spicy, tangy |
| Dragon Roll | Eel, avocado, cucumber | Rich, savory |
| Rainbow Roll | Assorted fish, avocado, crab | Fresh, vibrant |
- Steamed shrimp and crab legs available daily
- Wide selection of rolls including vegetarian options
- Sashimi and nigiri crafted with premium fish
Appetizers and Dim Sum Delights
Before diving into the main courses, guests at Chinatown Buffet can savor an array of appetizers and dim sum selections. These small plates offer a perfect introduction to the meal, allowing diners to taste a variety of flavors and textures.
The buffet’s dim sum menu features favorites like potstickers, spring rolls, and steamed buns. Each item is prepared fresh and replenished regularly to ensure maximum freshness.
The potstickers, filled with seasoned pork and vegetables, are pan-fried to a golden crisp, while the spring rolls provide a lighter, crunchy alternative.
Steamed buns are another highlight, offering soft, pillowy dough filled with savory barbecue pork or sweet custard. These dim sum items are enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces, from classic soy to tangy chili oil, enhancing each bite’s flavor profile.
“Dim sum is all about sharing and discovery,” says Manager Emily Wu. “We encourage guests to sample a little bit of everything, creating a unique plate every time.”
- Potstickers – crispy on the outside, juicy inside
- Spring Rolls – light and crunchy
- Steamed Buns – available with sweet and savory fillings
- Assorted dipping sauces for every taste
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Inclusivity is a key focus at Chinatown Buffet, and the vegetarian and vegan menu is both diverse and satisfying. With a growing demand for plant-based dining, the restaurant ensures that these choices are flavorful and never an afterthought.
Diners can enjoy a variety of vegetable-forward dishes, such as Eggplant in Garlic Sauce, Stir-Fried Green Beans, and Vegetable Fried Rice. The use of fresh produce and traditional Chinese seasonings makes these dishes both wholesome and delicious.
The buffet also offers tofu-based entrees, which are marinated and cooked to perfection.
To help guests make informed choices, items are clearly labeled, and staff is knowledgeable about ingredients and preparation methods. This attention to detail ensures a welcoming experience for everyone, regardless of dietary preference.
| Vegetarian Dish | Main Ingredients | Vegan-Friendly |
| Eggplant in Garlic Sauce | Eggplant, garlic, soy sauce | Yes |
| Vegetable Fried Rice | Rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce | Yes |
| Stir-Fried Green Beans | Green beans, garlic, oil | Yes |
| Mapo Tofu (vegetarian style) | Tofu, chili sauce, mushrooms | Yes |
- Clearly labeled vegetarian and vegan options
- Fresh produce used in every dish
- Tofu-based entrees with bold seasonings
“Our mission is to make plant-based dining exciting and accessible,” says Head Chef Ming. “No one should have to settle for bland food, and at Chinatown Buffet, they never will.”
Kid-Friendly Favorites
Chinatown Buffet is a family-friendly destination, and its menu features plenty of kid-friendly favorites that appeal to younger guests. These dishes are crafted with familiar flavors and milder seasonings, making them popular among children and picky eaters alike.
Classic options like Chicken Nuggets and French Fries provide comfort food staples, while sweet and sour chicken offers a gentle introduction to Asian cuisine. The buffet’s fried rice and lo mein noodles are also perennial hits, allowing kids to customize their plates with a variety of toppings and sauces.
The dessert bar is a special treat, with offerings such as fortune cookies, gelatin desserts, and ice cream in several flavors. This ensures that young diners leave with a smile, having enjoyed a meal that caters to their tastes.
- Chicken Nuggets and French Fries
- Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Fried Rice and Lo Mein Noodles
- Ice Cream and Fortune Cookies
“Families love that everyone can find something they enjoy—whether it’s a plate piled high with noodles or a sweet treat to end the meal,” notes longtime server Jenny Lin.
Soups, Salads, and Sides
No meal at Chinatown Buffet is complete without exploring the variety of soups, salads, and sides available. These lighter options are perfect for starting the meal or as accompaniments to the main dishes.
The soup station features classics like Hot and Sour Soup and Egg Drop Soup. These soups are made fresh daily, with rich broths and quality ingredients.
The Hot and Sour Soup is a balance of tangy and spicy, while the Egg Drop Soup offers a comforting, silky texture.
Salad options range from simple cucumber salads to more elaborate choices like seaweed salad and Asian slaw. Guests can build their own salads with a variety of fresh vegetables, toppings, and house-made dressings.
- Hot and Sour Soup – tangy with a hint of spice
- Egg Drop Soup – smooth and comforting
- Build-your-own salad bar
- Asian slaw and seaweed salad
| Soup | Main Flavors | Best Paired With |
| Hot and Sour Soup | Sour, spicy, umami | Fried appetizers |
| Egg Drop Soup | Savory, mild | Stir-fried entrees |
| Miso Soup | Earthy, salty | Sushi and sashimi |
Desserts and Sweet Treats
After indulging in savory dishes, guests can look forward to an impressive selection of desserts and sweet treats at Chinatown Buffet. The dessert bar is a highlight, offering everything from traditional Asian sweets to Western classics.
Popular choices include sesame balls filled with sweet bean paste, almond cookies, and fruit tarts. The buffet also features a rotating selection of cakes and pastries, ensuring a new surprise with each visit.
For those who prefer lighter options, fresh fruit is always available, including pineapple, watermelon, and oranges.
The ice cream station lets guests choose from several flavors, with toppings like sprinkles, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream. This interactive element is especially popular with children and adds a festive touch to the dining experience.
- Sesame balls and almond cookies
- Assorted cakes and pastries
- Fresh fruit and fruit tarts
- Ice cream with customizable toppings
“No meal feels complete without something sweet, and our dessert station is designed to satisfy every craving,” says Pastry Chef Lin Chen.
Beverages and Specialty Drinks
Chinatown Buffet’s beverage selection is designed to complement its diverse menu, offering a range of options from classic sodas to specialty teas. Guests can find both hot and cold drinks to suit any preference or occasion.
The buffet features a selection of Chinese teas, such as jasmine and oolong, which pair beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes. For a more familiar choice, soft drinks and lemonade are always available.
Specialty beverages, like bubble tea or lychee juice, are offered on select days, adding an extra layer of excitement to the meal.
The self-serve drink station ensures quick and convenient access, while attentive staff are available for refills or special requests. Whether you’re seeking a soothing cup of tea or a refreshing soda, the beverage options round out the buffet experience.
- Jasmine and Oolong Tea
- Soft drinks and lemonade
- Bubble tea (select days)
- Lychee juice and tropical fruit drinks
“The right beverage can elevate a meal, and we aim to offer choices that enhance every guest’s dining experience,” says Beverage Manager Kevin Zhao.
Conclusion
Chinatown Buffet in Champaign delivers a dining experience that combines variety, quality, and hospitality. The extensive menu ensures that every guest—regardless of age, taste, or dietary need—finds dishes to enjoy and remember.
From signature Chinese entrees to creative sushi rolls and tempting desserts, the buffet embodies a spirit of abundance and celebration.
Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, the restaurant’s warm atmosphere and attentive service make it a standout choice. The dedication to freshness, inclusion, and innovation is evident in every corner of the menu.
For those seeking both familiar comforts and new culinary adventures, Chinatown Buffet is a destination that continues to set the standard for buffet dining in Champaign.
With its thoughtfully curated offerings, welcoming environment, and commitment to guest satisfaction, Chinatown Buffet remains a beloved favorite in the community. The next time you’re in the area, gather friends and family, and let your taste buds explore the delicious possibilities that await at this exceptional buffet.
