This Is the Best Buffet in Florida, Known for Its Live Cooking Stations

Buffets aren't usually the height of the culinary arts. Many have food that’s unseasoned and not nearly hot enough, leaving you to wonder if they’re really worth their value. This is precisely why I appreciate a buffet with live cooking stations. Rather than eat food that’s been sitting out for hours, you can watch someone make it in front of you right before putting it on your plate. Although it may seem like a small detail, it makes all the difference in the world, especially for foods like eggs and meat. Warm rice can still taste good, but I certainly never want lukewarm eggs.

If, like me, you like your buffets to have a degree of freshness, consider a visit to Fresh Harvest Buffet at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa. The restaurant has seven live-action cooking stations where at least some of the dishes are cooked in front of diners and served reasonably fresh. These stations offer a wide variety of foods, including pastas, dumplings, crawfish, and smoked ribs. While you’ll still find dishes that have been pre-cooked, you’ll have plenty of options at this restaurant if you’re picky about freshness.

Another factor that places Fresh Harvest Buffet above its competitors is the diversity of the food options. Sure, some dedicated buffets are absolutely worth the hype. But sometimes you’re in the mood for everything and don't feel like having to choose. If you want to place Southern fried chicken next to New Zealand mussels with a side of Mexican tacos and Japanese sushi, you absolutely can. Throw in a French macaroon or an Italian cannoli for dessert, and you can basically imitate the EPCOT food experience for a fraction of the price.

The entrance fee at Fresh Harvest varies depending on the day and time that you come in, and ranges between $39.95 and $49.95. Themed days have different prices for special meals. On Mondays, you can get a seafood boil buffet dinner for $44.95; and on Wednesdays and Thursdays, you can pay extra for lobster tails ($10 for one, $18 for two, or $25 for three). While Fresh Harvest's price is a bit high for a buffet, it reflects the use of better, fresher ingredients. For me, it’s always worth paying more for a tastier meal.

Coffee, tea, and soft drinks are included in the price. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend the coffee, however, since it’s kept warm rather than brewed fresh. There’s also a bar that serves cocktails and liquors for an additional price. The cocktails are fairly basic rather than crafted drinks, but they pair well with a buffet dinner.

​Overall, Fresh Harvest is the best buffet with live cooking stations in Florida. If you’re looking to indulge in a huge meal with an almost obscene amount of options, you won’t be disappointed. Afterward, head to the hotel’s casino to try your luck. Or even better, go downtown and take a long stroll along the Tampa River Walk, which is one of the best in the country.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.