Buffet 101 - Mandaue
Buffet 101
Description
Buffet 101 presents an extensive array of food options, boasting a high-end ambiance and attentive service. Diners can enjoy dishes ranging from freshly grilled seafood to a variety of international cuisines. However, the buffet has garnered mixed reviews regarding quality; some dishes are celebrated for their flavor while others, like overcooked pasta and bland roast beef, fall short. Concerns also arise from cleanliness issues, limited drink choices, and an often crowded environment. Despite these shortcomings, the affordable price point and no time limit for dining may appeal to those willing to navigate the noisy crowd for a taste of the hidden gems available.
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Feedback
This experience was disappointing for a restaurant trying to present itself as a high-end establishment. My advice to the owner: invest more time in training your managers, hosts, and servers. I left before things escalated further, as the situation became increasingly volatile. I would never spend my hard-earned American dollars in such a disorganized place—one that is less orderly than a simple corner eatery.
The restaurant offers a diverse selection of cuisines from around the globe. The quality varies; while some dishes are just decent, many others are truly outstanding. I highly recommend Buffet 101 to anyone visiting Cebu, as well as to locals who might be unsure about which of the many buffet options to choose from.
Buffet 101 is located at City Times Square across the street from Park Mall in Mandaue. Parking is limited if you want to park right up front of the restaurant. When you pull into City Times Square, head on over to the garage area pass Liv, take a right then another right and you'll arrive at Buffet 101's open air parking area. We made a reservation because we were a party of 16 and it was a Saturday for a 6 pm seating. We arrived and a receptionist seated us. It was a Saturday night and as expected, crowded. As the rest of the group was still situating themselves with seating arrangements I went ahead and browsed their offerings. In one end, they offered a variety of Asian-themed food. Sushi, Japanese omelette, tempura to live shrimp cooked to order and of course, Filipino dishes. They had different kinds of soups and even congee. The middle area consisted of a small salad bar, desserts, and beverages. For those who are wondering, they do have beer on tap. Not sure the brand though. They also had sangria (wine). On to the other end of the buffet. I frequented this area as they offered roast beef, chicken and pork. I was told they had lamb as well. They had mashed potatoes, a diy sandwhich area, pizza, and pasta to just name a few. After browsing I grabbed a plate. I started with the roast beef in medium and pizza. Later, I went for the mashed potatoes. Fyi: ask your server for the steak knife, if your in need of one. They also had a station for cook to order seafood. Staff: The waiters and waitresses were all very quick to please. Once you requested something a few moments later they would arrive with your requested item, promptly. Though at times you had to flag one of them down, it is to be expected at a buffet. The birthday singing at each birthday celebrant's table was absolutely entertaining. Cost: We did their birthday promo and there were a few in the group celebrating their birthday month. Paying adults are at 839 pesos each on a Saturday night. (Dinner seating) Their birthday promo allows the celebrant to complimentary dine given they had 3 paying adults in their group. Overall: Despite having to always hunt down in finding a plate for each go at the buffet, the overall experience at Buffet 101 was fantastic. I won't deny we came on a expectation that the service would be sub par, due to various other reviews mentioning this. However, we were delightly surprised that our first experience here was enjoyable. The food, especially the roast beef and grilled salmon, were delicious and seasoned just right. If Buffet 101 wasn't a ways from where we stay, I'd definitely visit again even if it isnt for a special occasion. No wifi. Free Parking. Restrooms were clean, but had an odor.
This is a super asian buffet. Its about the average size of a big Vegas buffet. For 799 pesos for dinner it's worth it. The seafood quality is really good. You can't get seafood any fresher. The live shrimp comes right out of the tank to pot or grill. So fresh so good! About 90% of the buffet items are international asian and the rest are westerner items. They also have self serve San Miguel beer on tap. That itself is worth it.
As a balikbayan who has experienced food from around the world it can be said that while buffet 101 lacks in authenticity makes up for in quantity and surprising quality for a buffet. Buffets are not my thing so bear with me. The ambiance is has a very high end feeling and staff was attentive so yay for that. First off let me say the draft beer and sangria on a self serve tap is genius and would probably be illegal in Canada. However the sangria was not the greatest, could be sweeter and colder. The beer is SM so basically ****. If it was flavoured (Apple) I'd be happier Standard mix of Japanese, Chinese, and western. Lamb roast was dry my exes personality. Pizza was soggy. However the fish is great as they are made to order. The noodle bar is limited however worth a try. Avoid sashimi as it may cause stomach problems being of a lower grade cut Buffets are about quantity not quality. However if you look hard enough buffet 101 has a few hidden gems
Menu
Pork Dishes
Sashimi Selection
Seafood
Soups
Fish
Mexican Dishes
Grilled Meat