If you've been to the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, you've likely seen the MGM Grand Buffet. Famous for its all-you-can-eat meals, this buffet has been a popular choice for visitors.
The MGM Grand Buffet opened in 1993, the same year as the resort. It became well-known for its breakfast and brunch, offering a reliable and affordable place to eat. Though it wasn't the fanciest buffet on the Strip, it was great for a quick meal between casino games or shows.
However, all good things must come to an end. So, the MGM Grand Buffet is going away in May. The iconic Las Vegas landmark will close on May 31, 2026, marking the end of this favorite dining spot on the Strip.
Changing Tastes on the Strip
The MGM Grand Buffet isn't the only buffet closing; it's part of a bigger change in how people eat in Las Vegas.
In the 1990s and 2000s, buffets were everywhere, with about 35 to 70 along the main resort area. They were cheap and aimed to keep gamblers full and happy.
Now, many buffets have closed, especially after the pandemic. Health concerns about self-serve lines, rising costs, and changing tastes have led people, especially younger visitors, to prefer trendy food halls, celebrity-chef spots, and more personalized dining experiences. The remaining buffets have become more upscale, with higher prices.
Why Food Halls Are Taking Over
Food halls are becoming more popular on the Strip and are replacing traditional buffets like the one at MGM Grand. Buffets used to be cheap and quick, but they have faced challenges such as staff shortages, rising costs, and changing visitor preferences. Food halls solve these issues by:
- Making more money: Vendors pay rent, making the space profitable. There's less need for staff, and less waste is produced.
- Attracting customers: People can mix and match different foods and choose what they want to spend. The individual food stalls feel more fun and modern.
- Running more smoothly: Service is quicker, and meals are customizable. Food halls can feature popular or trendy food that brings in crowds.
This trend grew rapidly after 2020, and by 2025, food halls are expected to be the main casual dining option on the Strip. They're often seen as more "in" and up to date than classic buffets.
Major Food Halls on The Strip
Here's a list of some of the newest food halls that have opened recently on the Las Vegas Strip:
ARIA Resort & Casino — Proper Eats Food Hall
This food hall opened where the ARIA Buffet used to be. It has about 10 quick-casual places that serve flavors from around the world, like ramen and donuts. There’s also a central bar and a hidden speakeasy. It’s a modern spot that’s perfect if you want variety.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas — Block 16 Urban Food Hall
Opened in 2018, this was one of the first and most popular food halls. It features stalls run by chefs offering street food, sandwiches, donuts, and sliders. Some well-known places here include Bang Bar by Momofuku and District: Donuts. It's praised for its quality food and neighborhood feel.
Resorts World Las Vegas — Famous Foods Street Eats
Inspired by hawker centers, this lively food hall has over 16 stalls focusing on Asian dishes, with some even recognized by Michelin. There are also American favorites like BBQ and hot chicken. It offers a lively atmosphere with a central seating area and a bar.
The Venetian Resort Las Vegas — Via Via Food Hall
Opened in mid-2025, this is a newer food hall with exciting restaurants from New York and Los Angeles, such as All’Antico Vinaio (sandwiches), Howlin’ Ray’s (hot chicken), Scarr’s Pizza, B.S. Taqueria, Ivan Ramen, and Turkey and the Wolf. Located off the Grand Colonnade, it’s often called one of the most exciting recent openings.
Park MGM — Eataly
Eataly is an Italian marketplace-style food hall. It has multiple counters where you can find fresh pasta, pizza, gelato, bakery items, and groceries. It’s more organized than typical food courts but fits well with the food hall concept.
The Last Buffets on the Strip
By June, only about six traditional buffets will remain on the Vegas Strip. They include:
- Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace: Known for its variety and quality.
- The Buffet at Wynn Las Vegas
- Wicked Spoon at Cosmopolitan
- The Buffet at Bellagio
- Circus Buffet at Circus Circus
- The Buffet at Excalibur
Some argue about how many there truly are, depending on definitions, but the decline is clear.
The End of an Era in Las Vegas
Many people see the closing of the MGM Grand Buffet as the end of the classic Vegas experience with easy, big meals.
If you planned to visit or want one last meal there, now is the time—expect longer lines as the closing date nears. This change shows how Las Vegas is moving towards fancier dining options that fit what visitors want today and match current casino strategies.
So, if you're heading to Vegas, know there are still plenty of tasty options, even if the buffet scene is changing.
