Orleans buffet, closed

Question

The buffet is still there for now, are they planning to reopen it?

Answer

Good question — and the short answer is: as of late 2025, ’s buffet remains closed — and there’s no clear public plan or timeline showing it will reopen any time soon.

Here’s what we know about the situation, and what you should expect if you were hoping to eat there:

Background & What Happened to the Buffet

The resort once operated the “French Market Buffet,” which in 2017 was closed for a major renovation. The plan was to replace it with a new “Medley Buffet,” with upgraded décor and expanded capacity.
Although the “Medley” buffet did open for a time after the renovation, the site currently reports that the buffet has been closed since March 2020.
Several recent industry and local-press summaries of Las Vegas’ post-COVID dining landscape confirm that many casino buffets (especially off-Strip or “locals” buffets) have not returned — the economics of staffing, cleaning, and demand have shifted significantly since the pandemic.

Current Status & What It Means for You

The buffet area at The Orleans remains dark and unused (or minimally maintained). Some observers report it feels “empty and spooky,” and security has even asked visitors who peer inside what they’re doing.
No announcement from the hotel or its owner Boyd Gaming indicates the buffet will reopen again, and given the general trend across Las Vegas (many buffets permanently closed), reopening seems unlikely in the near future.
If you stay at The Orleans, you should assume there is no buffet — you’ll need to find alternative dining options (restaurants, cafes, or off-site food halls). The hotel’s own guest forums confirm as much.

Why It’s Unlikely to Reopen — Broader Trends & Business Reality

Buffets have become less profitable and more costly to operate — staffing, food waste, health regulations and competition from food halls have all contributed to declining buffet viability in Las Vegas.
Many other casinos have permanently shuttered their buffets post-COVID (or replaced them with food halls), suggesting the buffet model itself is waning rather than just a temporary pause.
Even before the pandemic, some “locals-market” buffets were operated at or below break-even, with discount pricing — making them particularly vulnerable when business dropped.

If You’re in Vegas and Want Buffet-Style / Affordable Eats

Since The Orleans buffet is not a reliable option, you may want to consider other venues. Many former Strip and off-Strip buffets have closed or been replaced by food halls, but a few remain — and there are plenty of newer restaurants, food courts, or hotel-restaurant combos offering good meals without a buffet format.

Bottom Line

If you hear that “the buffet is still there,” treat that as outdated information or nostalgia. The buffet area at The Orleans is effectively closed. Until a formal announcement is made (none exists), plan as though it will remain closed — and set your expectations accordingly by choosing alternative dining options.

Orleans buffet, closed

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