Yuan's Buffet

Yuan's Buffet on Vermillion Street in Hastings offers a straightforward Asian buffet experience with a focus on Chinese and sushi options. The interior is functional rather than upscale, featuring a mix of booths and tables that cater well to casual lunch or dinner crowds. This is a spot where locals appreciate getting a solid assortment of familiar dishes without fuss, especially midweek or weekend afternoons when the buffet often feels comfortably busy but not rushed.

The buffet highlights include sushi alongside classic Chinese staples like lo mein, egg foo young, and several shrimp preparations—fried, butterfly, and steamed in a seafood combination. For those who like customizing their plates, there’s a Mongolian grill-style stir fry station where you can pick your ingredients and watch them cooked fresh on a hot grill. The salad bar and stuffed mushrooms add some variety beyond typical buffet fare.

People who come here tend to value convenience and consistent quality. It’s not a fancy place, but attention to freshness shows in the food. Fried rice and teppanyaki chicken have notably improved recently, and the variety is enough to satisfy both sushi lovers and those after more traditional Chinese comfort food. Portions are generous, and there are party trays available for takeout, making it an easy choice for group meals or family gatherings.

The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with staff who are known to be attentive and friendly—helping keep the experience smooth whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout. While some parts of the decor and restroom facilities could use updating, cleanliness is generally maintained throughout. A thoughtful touch is the complementary ice cream offered after meals, including playful options like Superman-flavored soft serve, which adds a little local flair.

Best times to visit are around lunch or early dinner, when the buffet is well-stocked and the crowd leans more toward local families and workers looking for a hearty, unfussy meal. If you’re after sushi or hibachi-style grill options with a hometown vibe rather than a trendy scene, Yuan’s Buffet delivers an honest, familiar dining option on Hastings’ dining strip.