Star Ocean Buffet

About

Buffets

Price Range : $11-30 ($$)

  • star
    Yelp rating
    3 stars

Location

Adress: 1300 Salem Rd SW, Rochester, MN 55902

Phone: (507) 322-6343

Work Hours

Mon 11:00 am-9:30 pm
Tue 11:00 am-9:30 pm
Wed 11:00 am-9:30 pm
Thu 11:00 am-9:30 pm
Fri 11:00 am-9:30 pm
Sat 11:00 am-9:30 pm
Sun 11:00 am-9:30 pm

Business info

  • list_alt
    Takes Reservations
    Yes
  • directions_car
    Delivery
    No
  • move_to_inbox
    Take-out
    Yes
  • credit_card
    Accepts Credit Cards
    Yes
  • thumb_up
    Good For
    Lunch
  • local_parking
    Parking
    Private Lot
  • directions_bike
    Bike Parking
    Yes
  • accessibility
    Good for Kids
    Yes
  • group
    Good for Groups
    Yes
  • volume_up
    Noise Level
    Average
  • local_bar
    Alcohol
    No
  • transit_enterexit
    Outdoor Seating
    No
  • wifi
    Wi-Fi
    Free
  • tv
    Has TV
    Yes
  • turned_in_not
    Waiter Service
    Yes
  • fastfood
    Caters
    No
  • turned_in_not
    Gender Neutral Restrooms
    Yes

Reviews

  • Maple Z.

    star star star star star 25 October 2026

    I don't really understand the complaints. It's a Chinese buffet, not fine dining. Just be happy that it's clean and that you even get some semblance of customer service being it's a Chinese restaurant. I'm giving them five stars because it's the only place in town, outside my own kitchen, with decent (emphasis on decent) Chinese food that's not overpriced fusion. I was pleasantly surprised by the roasted duck, gai lan, and steamed flounder (I think these are only served during dinner hours)... food for the Asian soul. The food is consistent, employees are nice, bathrooms are clean, and bonus points for being kid-friendly.

  • Nicole N.

    star star star star_border star_border 16 October 2026

    This place is exactly what you would expect for an all you can eat buffet. Their name is a little deceiving as they offer a lot of different food choices besides for Asian.

    One of the things that I really like about this place is their sushi selection. They really do have a lot of options to choose from and all of it is technically unlimited -- sometimes I'll just fill up on their sushi because its a phenomenal deal.

    The lunch price comes out to around $10 and that includes a drink. Also, they prefer if you can leave cash on the table for your server.

    All in all, its a good place to go to if you're on a budget and want to please a lot of people at once. Everyone should be able to find what they want.

  • Matt M.

    star star star star star_border 12 October 2026

    Much improved over the old "Old country buffet." I liked the selection of food, however I would highly recommend lunch over dinner due to the price vs quality of food.

  • Ethan T.

    star star star star_border star_border 12 October 2026

    The wait staff was very prompt & courteous.  However, I wasn't a fan of when a rag was left on my table, and I noticed it on my table when I returned back from the buffet.  The worker did apologize.  

    There were huge piles of beans on two tables right next to the buffet.  The workers were prepping them, while tending to other customers in the restaurant. I didn't find this to be the most sanitary measure.  

    There was a huge piece of cardboard  under the urinals in the men's bathroom.  Strange.  Is that for easy clean up or to absorb urine that is misfired?

    The flan/custard dessert was awful.  It was burnt smelling & tasting.  

    Overall, the main foods were decent.   Especially for being 8:00 on a Friday night.  

    The fried donuts were awful.  I could tell they were sitting in the warmer for awhile.

  • Chon T.

    star star star star star_border 11 October 2026

    I have seen my fair share of underwhelming Asian buffets but I have to admit, Star Ocean is mighty impressive!  Walking in you think you stumbled into a much refined establishment.  Cleanliness is obviously important, and star Ocean gets mad props for making sure the food serving tables are constantly wiped and plates at your table are never left to pile.  Food wise, hot platters of stir fried wok dishes line up with your typical fried offerings, a decent salad bar pairs well with the benefit of a Mongolian grill station.  All foods are constantly rotated with no dish left to sweat or dry out.  For $9.99 per adult for lunch, this place is a steal of a deal (though lacking a bit in seafood offerings).  Way to go, Star!

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