Las Vegas is a city that thrives on indulgence. Everything here is designed to dazzle and delight, from its glittering casinos to its extravagant shows. But when it comes to food, few places capture the essence of Vegas quite like the Cravings Buffet at The Mirage. As a long-time resident who’s spent over two decades enjoying the culinary wonders of this city, I can say without hesitation that Cravings is more than just a buffet—it’s a culinary journey around the world, right on the Las Vegas Strip. Cravings Buffet has something for everyone, whether you’re a tourist visiting for the first time or a local looking for a favorite dining spot.
What Makes Cravings Buffet Special?
Located inside The Mirage, Cravings Buffet has been a staple for locals and tourists. It’s not just the variety of food that sets it apart, but the quality and experience that makes it a must-visit spot. The buffet features a wide array of global cuisines, offering something to satisfy every palate. With the added bonus of live cooking stations, unlimited wine and beer, and a chic, modern atmosphere, Cravings Buffet is the epitome of dining in Las Vegas.
A Visual Feast: Ambiance and Setting
From the moment you step inside Cravings, you’re greeted by a vibrant, modern design that mirrors the eclectic nature of the food offerings. The layout is well thought out, with various stations spread out to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The decor strikes a perfect balance between contemporary and comfortable, making it ideal for both casual dining and special occasions.
A Culinary Journey: Exploring the Food Stations
Cravings Buffet is designed to take you on a culinary adventure across different regions of the world. Each food station is carefully curated to offer authentic flavors, diverse choices, and something to please every palate. Let’s take a closer look at the offerings.
Asian Station
The Asian Station is a haven for those who crave the bold, aromatic flavors of the East. This station offers a wide variety of dishes that range from traditional to contemporary, ensuring that everyone finds something they love.
- Sushi: Freshly rolled sushi featuring everything from classic California rolls to more adventurous offerings like spicy tuna and eel.
- Dim Sum: Steamed buns, dumplings, and siu mai offer a taste of traditional Cantonese cuisine.
- Chinese Favorites: Dishes like General Tso’s Chicken, Beef with Broccoli, and Sweet and Sour Pork.
- Thai Specialties: Fragrant curries, Pad Thai, and Tom Yum Soup.
Italian Station
For those who enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of Italy, the Italian Station is a dream come true. This station delivers all your favorite Italian dishes with a Vegas twist, from pasta to pizza.
- Pasta Bar: Mix and match your favorite types of pasta with a variety of sauces, including Marinara, Alfredo, and Pesto.
- Pizza Oven: Freshly baked pizzas with toppings like Pepperoni, Margherita, and Four Cheese.
- Risotto Bar: Creamy, savory risotto made to order with your choice of ingredients, including mushrooms, parmesan, and truffle oil.
- Classic Italian Dishes: Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan, and Veal Marsala.
American Station
The American Station offers comfort food at its finest. It is perfect for those who want to indulge in classic American dishes with a modern touch.
- BBQ Favorites: Ribs, brisket, and pulled pork with a selection of tangy BBQ sauces.
- Fried Chicken: Crispy, golden fried chicken that’s juicy and flavorful.
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection.
- Classic Burgers: Build your own burger with all the fixings, from lettuce and tomato to bacon and cheese.
Seafood Station
No Las Vegas buffet would be complete without a seafood station, and Cravings delivers in spades. Whether you’re a fan of cold seafood or prefer it hot, there’s something here to satisfy your cravings.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Fresh, chilled shrimp served with a tangy cocktail sauce.
- Oysters on the Half Shell: A selection of fresh oysters served with lemon wedges and mignonette sauce.
- Crab Legs: Steamed crab legs served with drawn butter.
- Grilled Fish: Freshly grilled salmon, tilapia, and sea bass with a variety of seasonings.
Latin Station
The Latin Station is a fiesta for your taste buds. Here, you’ll find a vibrant array of dishes that showcase Latin America’s bold and spicy flavors.
- Taco Bar: Build your own tacos with a choice of meats, including carne asada, pollo, and carnitas, plus all the toppings.
- Fajitas: Sizzling beef and chicken fajitas served with sautéed peppers and onions.
- Empanadas: Flaky pastry filled with seasoned meat, cheese, or vegetables.
- Rice and Beans: Traditional Mexican rice and refried beans, perfect for pairing with any dish.
Salad Bar
The Salad Bar at Cravings is a refreshing option for those looking to start their meal on a lighter note or balance out the indulgence.
- Fresh Greens: A selection of crisp lettuce, including romaine, spinach, and mixed greens.
- Toppings Galore: From cherry tomatoes and cucumbers to croutons and bacon bits, customize your salad just the way you like it.
- Dressings: Classic options include Ranch, Caesar, and Balsamic Vinaigrette, as well as unique choices like Blue Cheese and Thousand Island.
- Specialty Salads: Pre-made options like Caesar Salad, Caprese, and Greek Salad.
Dessert Station
No meal at Cravings Buffet would be complete without a visit to the Dessert Station. This is where your sweet tooth gets to shine, with an extensive selection of treats to satisfy every craving.
- Cakes and Pastries: Red Velvet Cake, Cheesecake, Chocolate Mousse, and an assortment of tarts and eclairs.
- Ice Cream Bar: A variety of flavors with all the toppings, including sprinkles, hot fudge, and whipped cream.
- Cookies and Brownies: Freshly baked cookies, brownies, and blondies, perfect for pairing with a scoop of ice cream.
- Sugar-Free Options: For those watching their sugar intake, plenty of sugar-free desserts are available, from mousse to fruit salad.
Live Cooking Stations: Made-to-Order Excellence
One of the standout features of Cravings Buffet is its live cooking stations. These stations allow you to interact with the chefs and have your dish prepared exactly to your liking. It’s an experience that elevates the buffet from simply dining to an engaging culinary event. Each station offers something unique, ensuring that every bite is perfectly tailored to your taste.
Asian Stir-Fry Station
Experience the bold, aromatic flavors of a made-to-order stir-fry at this station. Customize your stir-fry with a wide variety of fresh ingredients, ensuring every bite is just how you like it.
- Customization: Select your choice of fresh vegetables, proteins (chicken, beef, shrimp), and sauces (soy, oyster, garlic).
- Cooking Style: Wok-fried on the spot by skilled chefs.
- Flavor Profile: Bold, aromatic, and tailored to your preferences.
Asian Noodle Station
This station is a must-visit for noodle lovers. You can create your perfect bowl of noodles by choosing from a selection of broths, proteins, and vegetables.
- Noodle Selection: Choose from Udon, Soba, or Rice Noodles.
- Broth Options: Rich broths such as miso, chicken, or beef.
- Add-Ons: Proteins, vegetables, and fresh herbs to complete your noodle bowl.
Sushi Bar
Sushi lovers will appreciate the freshness and precision at the Sushi Bar. Watch as expert chefs prepare your favorite rolls and nigiri right before your eyes.
- Fresh Ingredients: High-quality fish and ingredients prepared by expert sushi chefs.
- Variety: Rolls, nigiri, and sashimi options, including tuna, salmon, and eel.
- On-Demand: Sushi made to order for the freshest experience.
Dim Sum Station
Dive into the delicate flavors of traditional dim sum at this station, where freshly steamed dumplings and buns are the stars.
- Selection: Dumplings, bao buns, siu mai, and other steamed delicacies.
- Authenticity: Traditional Cantonese flavors made fresh.
- Preparation: Steamed to perfection as you watch.
Italian Pasta Station
Pasta lovers can indulge in a custom-made dish at the Italian Pasta Station. Choose your pasta, sauce, and add-ins for a truly personalized meal.
- Pasta Choices: Spaghetti, Penne, Fettuccine, and more.
- Sauce Options: Marinara, Alfredo, Pesto, and others.
- Extras: Garlic, olives, fresh herbs, and cheeses to customize your dish.
Italian Pizza Oven
Enjoy the taste of freshly baked pizza at the Italian Pizza Oven. Watch as your pizza is prepared and baked to perfection in a stone oven.
- Pizza Varieties: Classic options like Pepperoni and Margherita, or create your own.
- Freshly Baked: Cooked in a stone oven for a crispy crust.
- Customization: Choose your favorite toppings or try something new.
Italian Risotto Bar
The Italian Risotto Bar offers creamy, flavorful risotto made just for you. Pick your favorite ingredients, and watch as the chef prepares it to perfection.
- Rice Base: Creamy, rich risotto.
- Ingredient Options: Mushrooms, seafood, truffle oil, and more.
- Live Cooking: Prepared in front of you to ensure the perfect consistency.
American Carving Station
For meat lovers, the American Carving Station is a must. Enjoy freshly carved meats, cooked to your liking and served with a variety of sauces.
- Meat Selection: Prime Rib, Roast Turkey, Honey-Glazed Ham.
- Sauces: Horseradish, au jus, cranberry sauce.
- Customization: Choose your preferred cut and portion size.
American BBQ Grill
The American BBQ Grill serves all your favorite BBQ foods, cooked just the way you like them. Choose from a selection of meats and enjoy the smoky, grilled flavors.
- Grill Favorites: BBQ Ribs, Brisket, Grilled Chicken.
- Sauces: Tangy BBQ, spicy, or sweet options.
- Cooked to Order: Meat grilled to your preferred doneness.
Latin Taco Bar
At the Latin Taco Bar, you can create your own perfect taco. Choose from a variety of freshly grilled meats and toppings, all served on handmade tortillas.
- Protein Choices: Carne Asada, Pork, Chicken.
- Toppings: Fresh salsas, guacamole, onions, cilantro.
- Fresh Tortillas: Made on-site for a perfect base.
Latin Fajita Station
Sizzling fajitas are the highlight at the Latin Fajita Station. Choose your favorite protein, and watch as it’s cooked with peppers and onions for a mouthwatering meal.
- Proteins: Beef, Chicken, or Shrimp.
- Preparation: Cooked with onions and peppers on a sizzling grill.
- Serving Style: Accompanied by warm tortillas and all the fixings.
Unlimited Wine and Beer: Elevate Your Dining Experience
One of the most unique offerings at Cravings Buffet is the unlimited wine and beer included with your meal. This feature not only enhances the dining experience but also adds to the value, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind and indulge. Whether you prefer a crisp white wine, a robust red, or a refreshing beer, you can enjoy as much as you like throughout your meal.
Nearby Entertainment and Attractions: Plan Your Day Around Cravings
Cravings Buffet is perfectly situated within The Mirage, offering you easy access to some of the best entertainment and attractions on the Las Vegas Strip. Whether you’re planning to spend the day exploring or want to relax after a satisfying meal, there’s plenty to do nearby.
Before Your Meal: Build Up an Appetite
- Explore The Mirage: Check out the iconic volcano show outside The Mirage, which erupts nightly and is a must-see for any visitor.
- Visit Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat: Get up close with bottlenose dolphins, white tigers, and more in this unique attraction.
- Casino Fun: Try your luck at the slots or table games at The Mirage’s casino before heading to the buffet.
After Your Meal: Unwind or Keep the Fun Going
- Catch a Show: The Mirage is home to some top-notch entertainment, including the Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil, a mesmerizing tribute to the legendary band.
- Relax at the Spa: If you’re looking to unwind after indulging, The Mirage’s spa offers a range of treatments to help you relax and rejuvenate.
- Stroll the Strip: After your meal, take a leisurely stroll down Las Vegas Boulevard, taking in the lights and sights of the Strip.
Insider Tips: Making the Most of Your Cravings Buffet Experience
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Vegas pro, these insider tips will help you get the most out of your experience at Cravings Buffet. From the best times to visit to maximizing your meal options, these tips will ensure your dining experience is nothing short of spectacular.
Timing is Everything
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: The best times to visit Cravings Buffet are during off-peak hours. Late breakfast (around 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM) and early dinner (around 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM) tend to be less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed experience with shorter lines at the food stations.
- Weekdays Are Your Friend: If possible, plan your visit on a weekday. Weekends, especially Saturday nights, are typically the busiest, with longer wait times and more crowded dining areas.
- Brunch Crossover: Consider timing your visit during the transition between breakfast and lunch (around 10:00 AM). This way, you can enjoy a selection of breakfast items while also sampling the lunch offerings as they start to come out.
Strategize Your Meal
- Start with a Walkthrough: Before grabbing a plate, take a stroll around the entire buffet. This allows you to see all the available options and plan your meal strategy accordingly. It’s easy to get full quickly, so prioritize the dishes you’re most excited about.
- Sample First, Indulge Later: With so many options, loading up your plate right away is tempting. Instead, consider sampling small portions of various dishes first. Once you’ve identified your favorites, go back for a full serving.
- Don’t Skip the Live Cooking Stations: The live cooking stations are a highlight of Cravings Buffet. Not only do they offer freshly made dishes, but they also allow you to customize your meal. Be sure to take advantage of these stations, especially if you have specific dietary preferences or just want something made exactly to your liking.
Maximize the Unlimited Drinks
- Pairing Wine and Beer with Your Meal: With unlimited wine and beer included, take the time to pair your beverages with your food. A light white wine pairs well with seafood and salads, while a robust red complements the flavors of grilled meats and pasta. If you’re a beer lover, consider switching up your brew with each course to enhance the flavors of your meal.
- Hydrate Between Courses: It’s important to stay hydrated with all the indulgent food and drink. Ask for water with your meal and sip between courses to refresh yourself and better enjoy the wide variety of flavors.
Save Room for Dessert
- Plan for Dessert: The Dessert Station at Cravings is not to be missed. Keep this in mind as you make your way through the buffet, so you can save room for the sweet treats that await. With everything from cakes and pastries to an ice cream bar, you’ll want to make sure you leave space for dessert.
- Try a Little Bit of Everything: With so many dessert options, it’s a good idea to sample small portions of several different treats. This way, you can enjoy a variety of flavors without overindulging too early.
Make the Most of Your Time at The Mirage
- Arrive Early: If you plan to enjoy some of the attractions at The Mirage before your meal, consider arriving early. This gives you plenty of time to explore the hotel’s offerings, like the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, or even try your luck at the casino.
- Book a Show: Consider booking a show at The Mirage for after your meal. Shows like the Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil are conveniently located within the hotel and offer a perfect way to end your evening after a satisfying meal.
- Relax and Digest: After your meal, take a leisurely stroll around The Mirage or along the Strip. The fresh air and activity will help you digest and make the most of your Las Vegas experience.
Consider the Buffet’s Value
- Take Advantage of All-Inclusive Pricing: Cravings Buffet offers great value, especially considering the variety of cuisines and the unlimited wine and beer. To get the most bang for your buck, make sure to try a wide range of dishes and enjoy the drink offerings.
- Join The Mirage’s Players Club: If you plan to return to Cravings or other Mirage restaurants, consider joining the Players Club. Members often receive discounts or offers, which can make your dining experience even more affordable.
By following these insider tips, you can elevate your experience at Cravings Buffet from a simple meal to a memorable Las Vegas adventure. Whether planning your day around your visit or just stopping in for a bite, these strategies will help you enjoy everything Cravings Buffet offers.
Why Cravings Buffet is a Must-Visit in Las Vegas
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Cravings Buffet at The Mirage offers an unparalleled dining experience that captures the essence of Las Vegas. With a vast selection of global cuisines, live cooking stations that allow you to customize your meal, and the added luxury of unlimited wine and beer, it’s a buffet that goes above and beyond. After a day of exploring the attractions on the Strip, Cravings Buffet is the perfect place to refuel and indulge. If you’re looking for a dining experience that combines variety, quality, and value, look no further than Cravings Buffet.
