Well, let's just say, never again. While this is a bustling business, it was very disappointing. Service was fine, but the food is awful. I tried the coconut shrimp, prime, rib, grilled steak, meat with vegetables, some kind of chocolate cake, crème brûlée, and had a salad. Let's start with a salad. The ingredients are fine most of it fresh. The salad dressing was horrible. That's the only reason why I didn't like it. Otherwise a salad bar was pretty decent. The meat on the other hand were big no. I don't know what they put or sauté their stirfry meat with, but it has a slimy consistency to it. It's disgusting. MSG? I don't know what it is but it's gross. The grilled steak would've been fine had it not been cold. The prime rib would've also been fine, had it too not been cold, and too raw. But let's face it why are these even on the menu when it's supposed to be "Mandarin" cuisine? Too too many non-Asian food choices. Maybe if they didn't spread their buffet too thin with unnecessary ( European) items, maybe the quality would be there. Then there is the dessert, again what is this slimy, icky texture to this food? I tried two desserts. The crème brûlée was actually pretty decent. But the chocolate cake, was slimy. Again, I don't know what they put on their food, but it's all got this gelatin like texture to it. So, no, I'll pass. I know what good food tastes like. Even a buffet can have good, quality food. And this place is not it. read more

We have been loyal Mandarin customers since the very first day this location opened. Even throughout the pandemic, we continued to support this restaurant with countless takeout orders because we believed in supporting a business we valued. Over the years, we've experienced both great service and disappointing service -- but today's experience was beyond disappointing. Matt, the way you treated our family was unacceptable. You broke the basic standard of customer service by publicly humiliating and disrespecting a loyal customer. The person you mocked and spoke poorly about was my mother -- a cancer survivor and the matriarch of our family who constantly puts everyone else's needs before her own. We made a reservation days in advance for 11 people at 12:00 PM. We even saw the note confirming it. We understand that restaurants can get busy, but there was no reasonable explanation for repeatedly seating guests who arrived after us while our family waited. Reservations exist for a reason. We had three babies with us who needed to be settled safely in their spaces. Instead of acknowledging our concerns, you continued seating other groups and mocked my mother each time she tried to communicate with you. That behaviour was hurtful, embarrassing, and completely unnecessary. This was supposed to be a special celebration for my sister's birthday. Instead of creating a positive memory for our family, your actions completely overshadowed the day and left us feeling humiliated and unwelcome. To make matters worse, while our family was being treated this way, large groups of tourists were prioritized and seated. It left us questioning whether we were treated differently because of our background and appearance. Regardless of the reason, the result was the same: we felt disrespected. We always made an effort to greet you and chat with you because we are genuine people who appreciate relationships with the businesses we support. After today, that respect has been lost. Mandarin has lost a loyal family's support because of how we were treated. We hope management takes this seriously and remembers that every customer deserves dignity and respect. read more

Food is always amazing, great atmosphere, good service, very large selection and Matt is great.

Vey clean and high end food. You get sealed hot towels at the beginning and end of the meal which was cute. The waiters were attentive and the variety was awesome. The ambiance was cool and it looked very aesthetically pleasing. read more

Mandarin Restaurant - Buffets Near Me - Kingston, Ontario

The Mandarin has once again set an industry standard! Given COVID, I was wondering how the Mandarin would open their awesome buffet. The approach taken by Matthew and his team ensures the health and safety of all their guests! The dine-in service is awesome, just like prior to COVID, and same goes for the food! Was glad to see the buffet open again, and will return! read more

I've been to Kingston before and the selection of Chinese cuisine isn't that lit! I actually stopped by here with a group of friends when we were on a road trip to Montreal and made a pitstop in Kingston! Here's my rundown: Food: We came during the Canada Day Month promotion so they had a wide selection of dishes that Canada is known for (really it was just a food drenched in maple syrup, poutine with shredded cheese but no cheese curds). We came when it was about to close so the food may not have been as great than it would have been during peak hours but that shouldn't be an excuse for why most of their food was dry and lacklustre. From their selection, the maple salmon, ribs and meatballs were good but the rest of their options really didn't impress me despite being so hungry. Atmosphere: There were Canadian flags everywhere and the ambience is standard for what you'd expect in a Mandarin! There's the buffet area and then the dining area. Service: Service was good and the servers were very attentive and always there to clear your plates. No complaints here! Price: We came on a weekday night and it was $26.99 for all you can eat dinner! Not bad for all you can eat but the food we got wasn't worth the price. Verdict: Overall, if it wasn't for the decent service, then I wouldn't have given this place a 2.5 star rating. The food was dry and bland at times and I wouldn't recommend coming here during times when they're not busy as I believe their food quality decreases as the day approaches an end. Despite this, if you're in Kingston and looking for good Asian food, don't count this place out, but just make sure you come during peak hours. There's ample room for dining here so you wouldn't have to worry much about reservations. read more

Mandarin Restaurant - Mandarin during its Canada month celebrations! They had food that showed their Canadian pride - Buffets Near Me - Kingston, Ontario

My wife and I were visiting Kingston on the 2nd of May, 2022, and wanted to have our lunch at the Kingston Mandarin. I called the business the day before to make sure we could walk in, and did not need a reservation. And I was informed that that was indeed the case. Lunch time next day, and we enter Mandarin. The lady at the front tells me, "We do not have anymore dine-ins." And when I mentioned the conversation I had with one of her colleagues the previous day, she explained they had limited tables, and that those were all occupied -- which was totally understandable. "Approximately how long will we have to wait?" "An hour" [which struck me as rather strange] "We're going to run an errand in the meantime, how will we know whenever a table is available?" " Write your name and number on this piece of paper, and I will call you." I opened my mouth for my next question, when the phone rang. The lady excused herself, answered the phone, and kept on talking into it  -- despite the fact that she was already in conversation with me when the phone rang. Good business conduct dictates that she should have had the person at the other end hold the line, while she finished her business with me. But no. That was not the case here. She kept taking on the phone for about 10 minutes (with us standing in front of her) before another kind gentleman came up to us and took us in immediately. read more

The mandarin in Kingston was perfect. Service was excellent and the sushi was fantastic. Fresh and hot

I had an amazing experience at mandarin!! The workers were nice and the food is delicious! I love the hot towels before and after the meal as well, I've always hated sticky hands at restaurants. Although it may be really pricey I definitely recommend the experience!! read more

This afternoon we went for dinner at 4:45 they opened at 4:30 service was good food was hot all was well until desert I don't know if it was just because they just opened for service or if someone forgot to take the pies out but all the pies were frozen solid I couldn't cut through it... also the fruit salad taste like it was turning overall was okay read more

Mandarin Restaurant - Front of the building - Buffets Near Me - Kingston, Ontario

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After 3 years and all the cars parked outside we decided to try it again. Unfortunately it is not getting better it is getting worse. No crabs legs, one of the high lights of our previous visit. It was " taken off the menu". The main irritation was on entrance we were asked if we were seniors and then asked for ids. We are both in our late 70's. She held our drivers licences up to our faces and carefully compared. Not only did she think her valued customers were lying about their ages, they were using false ids! Other wise bland food, lots of jello and ice cream. Pretend sushi ( no seafood). It did have nice decor though and hot towels, which balances the poor food? read more

I get that buffets favor quantity over quality, but this is a whole other level. While the restaurant is decorated to be aesthetically pleasing, the food was not. The dumplings were over steamed to point where they were going to fall apart (despite their rigid texture). Everything else was coated in sugar and fat to the point where I'd rather have it replaced with MSG instead. The meat was also incredibly dry. It seemed like the food was designed to sit there for hours despite the fact that the dishes were being cleared within 20 minutes. I'm definitely not coming back here. read more

I'm a massive fan of this place and buffets in general. It's got an amazing variety of food and it all tastes great. I used to go with my buddies and down endless plates of food and desserts. The torpedo shrimp and chicken balls are probably my favourite things there, I can never stop eating them. The shrimp crust is fantastic and the shrimp itself melts in your mouth. The only thing holding me back from giving 5 stars is the fact that this location isn't quite as good as the ones in other cities, and I've definitely been to better all you can eat places. Would still highly recommend. read more

Not a bad place for Chinese food. It can be quite pricey but it depends on what time of day you go and if it's a holiday. You usually need to wait a bit just to be seated but overall not a bad Chinese restaurant. read more

We ordered delivery last night. I had asked for some extra heat in the general tao chicken (had done this in the past and they added some extra chiles). This time, they put some sriracha sauce on top like ketchup - not the kind of heat you add to a sweet dish. The S&S chicken balls were cooked well, but there was no sauce included. We had to make do with some plum sauce we had. To be fair, the spring rolls, hot & sour soup and chicken chow mein were all good. read more

Excellent food and great variety. There is something for everyone. The desert area is awesome. Lots to choose from. The only thing I have a slight problem is the price. $24.99 Monday to Thursday and $31.99 on weekends. If you like this come during the weekday. read more

Great food. Super huge buffet and something for every one even picky eaters. Super friendly staff. Very clean in all areas. The price is great for all that you get. Variety of food is fantastic. Thrilled to have one in Kingston now, and not have to wait till we go to Toronto. Ottawa also has one now. We will go there often. If you like buffet style then I highly recommend it. read more

The only redeeming thing about this Mandarin is the servers. They were however the only good thing. This Mandarin is not a good representation of the brand and we will not be returning to this location. Food is sub par, lukewarm, bland and their selection was poor. I am surprised there are not more negative comments but I'm assuming most of the commenters have not been to a Mandarin in other cities or a good buffet... And anyone that says Panda Garden is good I can't even imagine what you would say is bad... Panda is the bottom of he barrel and Mandarin is right there with them. Is there a zero rating?... No? Okay well I guess I'll give it a 1 star for the servers. read more

Kingston has a surprisingly lackluster selection of Chinese food available. So, Mandarin, although a chain and a buffet, does at least add one more option to the culinary landscape, and it isn't completely terrible (for what it is). The dessert bar could feature some actual Asian deserts like fried sesame balls or egg custard tarts... but what they DO offer is definitely edible, in a stuff-your-face with cake, pie, and ice cream sort of way. They have a sushi bar too, although none of the sushi features raw fish. If I could give the food 2 stars and the service 3 stars - which is always stellar - I would. So, 3 stars it is. read more

Great food and great service! Will definately go again. There is a wide selection of food. Clean washroom and the servers and owner were very friendly. read more

Fantastic service as always! Cherry got some tofu for my hubby that was not in the chicken soup. Ruby and Cary didn't miss a thing and Jerry is always friendly and helpful. Jerry was laughing with the staff, which was really nice to see. It was Chinese New Year so lots of fun items that we don't regularly see. Very enjoyable as usual. read more

Great food selection! I'm obsessed with the chicken and noodle selection, Would go again! Definitely for special occasion though.

I didn't take any pictures because I was too busy enjoying my delicious meal and dessert! If you're a vegetarian please know that you'll be able to arrive hungry and leave full! I wish that there had been a vegetable lowmein (not just a chicken version) but the veggie spring rolls were amazing! If you love meat: my mom (who is notoriously difficult to please) RAVED about both the prime rib and the salmon. The waitstaff was lovely with their discreet and prompt refilling of water, and quick and efficient clearing of plates. Fragranced warm towels at beginning and end of the meal were wonderful! It's not "cheap" but it is worth every cent. read more

I went here a couple weeks ago for a celebration dinner with some friends and family. So there was a good amount of us who ALL had a great first experience. The decor is neat..I love the fish tanks! Everyone is super friendly, personable, and helpful. They offer hot towels before and after your meal. Which was nice, but they were VERY hot..so be careful! Now the food! We went for dinner so there was lots of options. Everything was steaming hot and fresh (seriously, if you're wearing glasses you'll go blind pretty fast.) i tried a little bit of everything, so going into detail would be outrageous. All I can say is..everything was tasty, if I didn't like something it was purely based on my palette not how things were prepared. There is a great selection of different foods, and cotton candy to top it all off! We ordered various alcoholic beverages and all were good, but very sweet/sugary. Which I'm okay with- my grandmother not so much. Overall, it was a great experience and we ate our moneys worth. It is quite expensive if you ask me- so I'll only be returning upon occasion with a large group. I'm glad I was able to go and look forward to returning. I hope they keep up the good work! read more

Overall I'd say the food is on par with any other buffet. The friendly service stands out. But the true star of this restaurants rating is the cleanliness. Now whether they can maintain that has yet to be seen. But other buffets in Kingston have fallen short in this area. So though it's buffet food stands similar beside any buffet style food, the nice clean atmosphere and friendly staff make it the choice in Kingston. read more

Had reservations for 7pm, got seated at 6:40. Our server was Miranda, she was phenomenal, took great care of us. The food was awesome once we weren't taken aback from the sheer selection of it all. Will be back for sure. read more

Such a great place, a great time! Fantastic Service! Was greeted simultaneously by a manager and the hostess in a very cheerful manner. Taken to our table in the "flower room" by our lovely hostess as she gave us the run down of the locations of the PLETHORA of food options. Once we were seated our server was quick to arrive, greeting us warmly, introducing herself and her "assistant" (who was not at this time present) while opening sealed, freshly heated damp cloths, one for each of us. Food was fantastic, there is no way to describe the options, there was a "bar" for everything; salad, soup, sushi, bread, etc, at least 3 desert bars, not including the ice cream and topping station, tonnes of made while you wait options, all of the classic items, just everything! And it was all incredibly fresh and incredibly delicious!!! While we were eating we had one of the owners stop by for a quick chat & check in, he was very personable, and it was so impressive to have the owners doing quality control. As we were eating desert we were offered a coffee or tea, then once finishing; another towel! I left so full and happy, for only about $20 more than the dumpy local service-free plastic tasting buffets our towns and city's are infested with. read more

Excellent food. Friendly service. The har gow and dim sum dishes were excellent! The Shanghai noodles were delicious. We were seated right away and got a seniors discount. The food is all fresh and often replenished. We would highly suggest it as an enjoyable experience read more

The Mandarin is an experience you start off with a hot lemon towel and then you walk into the room with all your food options and there are options. Salad Bar, Soup Bar, Dessert Bar, including Cotton Candy, Chinese Food, American Food, Sushi, Ect, There is just so much. It is just so over whelming with food in a good way. Their are so may drinks you can get there as well and they are good which is surprising at a buffet. The only Con i would give this place and it is a big one, is the price. Its so over priced I NEVER go for dinner its like $30 and on weekends $32.99. I only go at lunch when its like OKAY priced which i still think is still a little pricey at like $20 dollars or something like that. I mean i wish it was a little cheaper but. i still like the food. read more

An awesome experience overall. Our server was Lami and she was amazing. The food was fresh for the most part. The tenderloin was the one dim spot. It lacked any taste at all. In fact, it almost tasted water logged. Otherwise it is a fantastic restaurant. read more

First off it's over priced on weekends. Secondly I ate dinner here Friday night and I have felt like shit all weekend the bathroom is my new bestfriend. Be careful if you eat here or you might wake up the next morning and run to the washroom. read more

Food is good and consistent. The only fault is price and table set up. On a busy night you can be walking sideways with your plate above your head trying to maneuver through the tightly packed tables. Also a pricier buffet choice than the competition but a nice dinner out if you are financially flush and don't mind being lost in s sea of people. read more

It's OK. My in-laws and friends tend to really like it, but as far as a buffet goes, it's just OK. Nothing too bad, nothing too great.

A lovely evening out. Loads of great food, awesome selection combined with welcoming, attentive service. Too many favourite to select just one. read more

I've been here once. The food is fine. My problem is with the management. Several close friends and many acquaintances have worked at this location. They haven't stayed long. They left because of the disgusting abuse inflicted upon them by certain managers that are still working there, despite reports made to corporate HR. Servers have been physically grabbed by management and hosts have been verbally abused to the point of tears. Don't give this business your money until the management is changed. read more

For what is offered in the buffet it's overpriced, especially Friday through Sunday. Definitely quantity over quality. The dessert and seafood is the highlight but anything other than those are mediocre at best. read more

My first and last order from here. I ordered take out and the sauces were the worst I've ever tasted. I don't know how they got them so wrong but sweet and sour as well as lemon were absolutely terrible. read more

Clean, great food and good service. A step up from your regular Chinese buffet. Lots of variety in the dishes, salad bars and huge amount of dessert offerings. Your only worry will be that you are filling up too fast. Service is prompt and friendly and the washrooms are immaculate. Price is on the higher end at around $20ish per person not including drinks and no free refills on drinks. Great atmosphere and very spacious. read more

For a buffet restaurant, the Mandarin is at the top of the list. It's clean, the food selection is large, and the customer service is top-notch. No complaints. We will be back!! read more

My first time at any Mandarin Restaurant, I definitely recommend making a reservation. We were seated within 5 minutes instead of up to 45 minute wait for walk-ins, I'm sure these times could vary. While we were waiting the hostess brought shrimp torpedoes for all the people to sample it seemed to get everyone in a cheerful mood, I was actually chuckling to myself at all the smiling happy people with there little tasty treasure. It was a little bit of a different approach, our hostess introduced herself and gave us a descriptive tour on our way to our seats explaining all the sections of food and making a few recommendations of dishes, I felt this was a nice personal touch. The hot towels before and after the meal again nice touch. The food was very flavourful, we started with sushi and sashimi, then moved to the prime rib with mashed potatoes and all the trimmings. The grill section, steak, chicken and more, the salad bar was huge great selections the mussels were big and fresh. The Chinese food section had more choices than most other buffets and you can distinguish the different flavours, just better quality than other buffets, the pile of crab legs and garlic butter were done perfectly, they even had slits cut across them for easy access to the meat. The soup selection was great I had the clam chowder and it was really good with real clams, it was so rich and creamy with a side of fresh buns and breads, the dessert selection was huge mostly home made if your a dessert fan you will find something you like, cotton candy was a neat touch Especially for the kids. It was a bit pricey, but considering the quality and selections of food it was well worth it. The restaurant was very clean including the washrooms new and modern. My new favourite buffet in Kingston, read more