Chow Time Grill & Buffet: A Comprehensive Guide to the Popular Buffet Chain in Panama City, Tamarac, Norcross, Pembroke Pines & Tallahassee
Chow Time Grill & Buffet has become one of the most recognized all-you-can-eat Asian-American buffet chains in the Southeastern United States. With locations in Panama City, Tamarac, Norcross, Pembroke Pines, and Tallahassee, the brand has built a loyal following thanks to its combination of fresh sushi, hibachi-style cooking, classic American comfort food, and an extensive variety of seafood dishes.
Families, travelers, and buffet lovers choose Chow Time for its wide menu selections, affordable pricing, and relaxed, family-friendly environment. In this detailed and SEO-optimized guide, we explore the history, menu, atmosphere, and what makes each location unique.
A Growing Buffet Brand Rooted in Asian-American Cuisine
Chow Time Grill & Buffet was created with a mission: bring Asian flavors and American classics together under one roof. Over time, the chain expanded its concept into multiple cities, focusing on high-traffic neighborhoods where families and groups frequently dine out.
The restaurant’s concept centers on three pillars:
1. Variety
A vast selection of dishes — from sushi rolls to grilled meats, fresh vegetables, seafood, salads, soups, and desserts.
2. Freshness
Buffet trays are frequently rotated, and many dishes are prepared in open-kitchen areas such as the hibachi grill or sushi bar.
3. Value
All-you-can-eat dining at a reasonable price remains one of the brand’s strongest appeals.
What Customers Love About Chow Time Grill & Buffet
Extensive Buffet Stations
Chow Time locations typically offer:
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Sushi Bar – freshly rolled sushi, sashimi, and specialty rolls
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Hibachi Grill – choose your vegetables, noodles, meats, and sauces
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Chinese Hot Dishes – lo mein, General Tso’s chicken, pepper steak, fried rice
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American Favorites – fried chicken, mashed potatoes, BBQ ribs, mac & cheese
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Seafood Selection – shrimp, mussels, fish fillets, seasonal specials
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Dessert Area – ice cream, cakes, fruits, pastries
Family-Friendly Dining
Large tables, spacious seating, and kid-friendly menu items make Chow Time a favorite among families. The casual vibe ensures everyone — from picky eaters to adventurous diners — finds something they enjoy.
Affordable Prices
Compared to many other buffet restaurants, Chow Time generally offers competitive pricing during both lunch and dinner, making it accessible for students, locals, and large groups.
Detailed Look at Key Locations
1. Chow Time Grill & Buffet – Panama City, Florida
The Panama City location is popular among locals, beach visitors, and travelers passing through the Florida Panhandle. Known for its large dining hall, extensive seafood options, and fresh sushi, it is often one of the busiest locations in the region.
Panama City’s branch stands out for:
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Spacious seating ideal for large groups
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A strong seafood selection due to the coastal market
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Reliable service and fast food turnover during peak hours
2. Chow Time Grill & Buffet – Tamarac, Florida
The Tamarac location is known for its modern interior design, well-organized buffet layout, and fresh hibachi station. Many locals appreciate that Chow Time in Tamarac frequently updates or rotates certain buffet dishes, keeping the dining experience fresh.
What makes Tamarac unique:
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Clean, contemporary décor
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Fresh hibachi grill with customizable plates
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Wide selection of vegetarian and seafood dishes
3. Chow Time Grill & Buffet – Norcross, Georgia
Located in a diverse community near Atlanta, the Norcross location attracts a wide range of guests — families, workers on lunch breaks, and buffet enthusiasts.
Highlights include:
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Extensive sushi options
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Friendly staff and efficient seating
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A balance between Asian dishes and American comfort foods
The Norcross branch is particularly praised for maintaining consistent quality, even during busy weekends.
4. Chow Time Grill & Buffet – Pembroke Pines, Florida
Pembroke Pines is known for being a high-traffic and fast-growing city in South Florida. The Chow Time location here reflects the area’s diverse population with a menu that appeals to different cultural tastes.
Pembroke Pines guests enjoy:
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Many Chinese and American hot dishes
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Clean buffet areas
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A comfortable, family-oriented dining space
It is a popular stop for families after shopping or local events.
5. Chow Time Grill & Buffet – Tallahassee, Florida
Tallahassee — home to FSU and FAMU — brings in a crowd of students, workers, and local families. Chow Time fits perfectly into this mix, offering an affordable and filling dining option.
Customers appreciate:
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Quick service despite busy student hours
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Fresh sushi and hot stir-fry dishes
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Budget-friendly pricing
The Tallahassee location is well-known for its lively atmosphere and steady flow of diners.
Why Chow Time Continues to Stand Out
✔ Huge Menu Variety
✔ Constant Food Rotation
✔ Fresh Sushi & Hibachi Made to Order
✔ Competitive Pricing
✔ Comfort-Friendly Atmosphere
✔ Suitable for All Ages
Whether you’re craving grilled steak, a plate of noodles, fresh sushi, or a slice of cake, the buffet style lets you create your own perfect meal.