Endless Eating: The Best Las Vegas Buffets

The first permanent Las Vegas buffet opened in the early 1940s at the original El Rancho Vegas hotel. It was originally priced at $1. Today, buffets are synonymous with Vegas, and prices are typically over $40 per person. Here are some of the best buffets for overall dining experience, seafood options, and ambiance.

The lines for this buffet are typically short (or nonexistent), but the presentation abounds. It's the first Vegas buffet to feature food in individual tiny pots, pans, and steamers. (Bacchanal at Caesar's has since implemented the concept.) Come here especially if you have a sweet tooth, as it has a large selection of gelato and macarons. (www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com)

Be prepared for wait times around an hour at Caesar's Palace newly revamped buffet, which re-opened at the end of 2012 after Lago Buffet was overhauled. Bacchanal doesn't skimp on seating or food options -- it holds up to 600 guests and has over 500 dishes. Most notable is its fresh seafood selection including chilled king crabs. (www.caesarspalace.com)

While nothing really stands out at Bayside Buffet, it's a safe bet for large groups with its wide selection of prime rib, crab legs, and shrimp, and unlimited alcohol. Guests also have a direct view of Mandalay Bay's tropical water garden. (www.mandalaybay.com)

This staple buffet, just off the strip, has been around for decades. While other Vegas buffets have since incorporated extensive seafood options, Village Seafood was the original, focusing solely on it. At about $40 per person, the price includes lobster tails, snow crabs, oysters, and sushi. (www.riolasvegas.com)

Carnival World Buffet (the counterpart of Village Seafood) is a good option for those who are not fans of seafood and would rather enjoy a traditional meal with comfort foods. The buffet, which includes staples such as pizza, pasta, omelets, and Asian cuisine, is about $35. Ideal for families with children or those wanting to spend slightly less on a Vegas buffet. (http://www.riolasvegas.com)

The colorful, intricately-decorated centerpieces and high ceilings welcome guests into a grand setting, although the seating is a bit awkward with chairs and tables seemingly placed haphazardly. While the atmosphere may have a more lasting impression, culinary highlights include prime rib and Alaskan crab legs. (www.wynnlasvegas.com)

One would expect The Buffet at Bellagio to reflect its opulent surroundings (it's located near the "O" Theater) but don't come here for ambiance as the setting is dated. The Buffet is in the process of revamping its menu, but there are still some notable gourmet options on weekends, including carved-to-order Beef Wellington with béarnaise sauce, and caviar. (www.bellagio.com)