The history of all-you-can-eat buffets traces back to ancient feasts and the Swedish smorgasbord, evolving through various cultural practices and economic conditions. Despite facing challenges like the Great Depression and the COVID-19 pandemic, buffets have adapted and remain popular due to their value and quantity, with modern innovations catering to contemporary dining trends.

The chapter explores the historical and cultural significance of feasts, from ancient Roman banquets to the Swedish smorgasbord. It highlights how these lavish meals have evolved over time, influencing modern all-you-can-eat buffets, and emphasizes their role in social and celebratory contexts.

The tradition of self-serve eating gained popularity in America through two key events: the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm and the 1939 World's Fair in New York. The concept of buffets evolved over time, with innovations like the electric buffet and economic factors like the Great Depression further promoting the practice.

The all-you-can-eat buffet gained immense popularity from the 1970s through the 1980s, becoming a staple in American dining culture. However, by the late 1990s and into the 2000s, changing dietary trends and market oversaturation led to a significant decline in buffet restaurants.

As COVID-19 restrictions lifted, Americans faced economic challenges, leading to increased food prices and a shift in dining habits. Despite initial setbacks, all-you-can-eat buffets like Golden Corral saw a resurgence by adapting to new health guidelines and offering value for money, making them popular once again.