MGM Grand Signals Shift Away from Traditional Buffets (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas — The announcement of the MGM Grand buffet’s closure has cast a spotlight on evolving dining trends along the Strip, even as a nearby off-Strip newcomer draws enthusiastic support from the community. Chickpeas Mediterranean Buffet, which debuted its second location three months ago, offers an affordable all-you-can-eat option amid rising costs across the industry.[1][2] Owner Shahin Moghbel remains upbeat, citing quality food and service as keys to gaining traction in the neighborhood.
MGM Grand Signals Shift Away from Traditional Buffets
The MGM Grand Las Vegas revealed plans to close its buffet after service on May 31. The venue, a fixture since the resort’s early days, will leave the space vacant for now, with no replacement concepts announced.[1]
This decision reflects broader changes in Las Vegas dining, where all-you-can-eat formats have dwindled on the Strip. Officials pointed to evolving guest preferences and operational realities as factors behind the move.
Chickpeas Emerges as Neighborhood Draw
Situated at West Sahara Avenue and South Rainbow Boulevard, Chickpeas Mediterranean Buffet opened its latest outpost in January. The spot specializes in kebabs, salads, hummus, and other Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, earning a solid 4.8-star rating from diners.[1]
A few blocks from the bustling Strip, the buffet targets locals with its weekday all-you-can-eat pricing at $20, plus a la carte selections. Moghbel adjusted trays of fresh offerings recently, underscoring his commitment to variety in a competitive market.
Owner Bets on Reputation and Value
Shahin Moghbel dismissed suggestions to pivot to American staples like hamburgers. “I had some people tell me, ‘switch it to hamburgers,’” he said, laughing. “Customers are used to Middle Eastern food, Mediterranean food; they will find us.”[1]
He emphasized building awareness through consistent quality. “It’s a matter of generating a mass enough people knowing you, and then that’s simply by reputation,” Moghbel explained. “You have to give good quality food and good service, and then eventually people will come.”
Costs have climbed 30% to 40% industry-wide, yet Chickpeas keeps prices accessible. Moghbel compared it favorably to fast-food alternatives: “You go to your local burger joint with a drink, $13 to $14, what are you getting? When you come here, you have ten salads.”[2]
Options Persist for Buffet Enthusiasts
Las Vegas still boasts several all-you-can-eat destinations following the MGM Grand departure. These venues cater to varied tastes, from luxury spreads to family-friendly spreads.
- Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace
- The Buffet at Wynn Las Vegas
- Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan
- The Buffet at Excalibur
- Circus Buffet at Circus Circus
- A.Y.C.E. Buffet at Palms
- Garden Court Buffet at Main Street Station
Visitors can explore Chickpeas’ offerings via its menu site. More on the MGM closure appears in related coverage from KLAS.[1]
As the city navigates these transitions, spots like Chickpeas demonstrate that buffets can thrive by leaning into community ties and smart pricing. The all-you-can-eat tradition adapts, finding new life beyond the neon glow of the Strip.
