FoodExplore Utrecht is a large, all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant offering a vast array of international cuisines from multiple food stations. It operates on an upfront payment model, where guests choose an arrangement that includes all dishes and drinks. It's particularly well-suited for large groups and families, located within 'The Wall' shopping and entertainment complex.
Customers frequently praise the wide variety of food options and the concept of being able to try many different cuisines. It's considered a great choice for groups where everyone has different preferences. While the quantity and variety are highly rated, some feedback indicates that the actual food quality can be inconsistent, with dishes occasionally being overcooked or over-salted, and desserts sourced from wholesalers. The atmosphere can be lively and sometimes noisy, especially due to many families with children. Despite this, many find it good value for money given the extensive selection.
Additional Details
FoodExplore Utrecht is situated in 'The Wall', a distinctive red building along the A2 highway, making it easily accessible. The all-inclusive pricing covers a wide range of food and non-alcoholic beverages, with alcoholic drinks often available for an additional charge or as part of a premium package.
The restaurant can be quieter in the early evening but tends to get busy, especially on weekends and during peak dining hours, making it a popular spot for family outings. It's recommended for those who enjoy a bustling atmosphere.
5
Great place to come when everyone likes something different. Here you can have Italian, Japanese, Mexican, Asian, Donner kebab, burgers, desserts including traditional poffertjes and all kinds of drinks.
Definitely recommend coming here. We have been twice now when visiting friends in Utrecht. It's fab.
Recommendation for the concept, variety of food and the vibe. Not for the actual quality of the food.
You pay upfront where you pick your arrangement. All dishes and drinks are included in that price.
They have all kind of stations: Dim sum, Grill, Spanish, Wok, Seafood, Dutch pastries, Dessert & Ice cream, Turkish grill and several more. No complaints about the dishes you can pick from.
But the thing is, it doesn't taste that amazing. The meat is often overcooked, the dessert & ice cream are bought from wholesalers (which taste different than places who actually make those), and it's usually over-salted. Don't get me wrong, you usually don't go to these kind of restaurants for the quality. It's more for the quantity and taste a bit of everything. Hence the positive experience.
The staff is very friendly, it's very suitable for family groups and it's located conveniently.
Surprisingly good food despite initial doubts
I have to admit, I was a bit sceptical when I walked into the building. According to the reviews, it was supposed to be good, but it looked quite empty and most of the restaurants seemed either closed or like they weren’t going to open at all — and it was nearly 6 PM.
Luckily, we were warmly welcomed by one of the staff members, who kindly explained how everything worked. On the table there was a QR code you could scan to see the menu for that day.
I have to say, we really enjoyed the food. The snacks were tasty, and even though a lot of it was fried, I didn’t have any trouble with my sensitive stomach — which is rare for me.
The prices were a little on the high side compared to what you get, but the quality made up for it. The virgin cocktail was also delicious.
If we go shopping at The Wall again, we’ll definitely come back here to eat.
When it comes to buffet places I am always skeptical regarding quality of food and variety.
I was pleasantly surprised by FoodExplore. There is so much to choose from and a vast variety of cuisines. Yes not everything will be to your liking but honestly I didn't even get to try everything. What I enjoyed most is the quality of beef and lamb, they were all prepared well and soft and tender (which I don't often find in Netherlands).
A very large variety of desserts and free soft drinks, coffee and juices as well.
For the price it is definitely worth it and when I need my next red meat fix this is where I will be heading.
Not for me. Went there for the idea of the different kitchens and the all you can eat. Food was nice and the place looks cool but I was not prepared to visit a restaurant focused in families with children... A lot of young children. It was chaotic, noisy and overwhelming. I understand the concept but I did not get any of that in the website. So, again. Nice if you want a place to go with your family and children to let them free in the wild to play, not nice for the rest 😅. Still. Food was good.
