Smokin Hot Buffet & Grill: A global experience in Coventry

Located on Corporation St in Coventry, Smokin’ Hot Buffet & Grill opened in December of 2024. With the customer in mind, it has recently updated its diverse menu. In time for summer, the buffet has revamped its ‘world grill’ and dessert sections. As a vegetarian, I was interested in exploring the variety and quality of non-meat options. To ensure we could provide a comprehensive review, I took along my non-vegetarian partner.

Upon entry, we were met with a faux cherry blossom tree before a spiral staircase, with fairy lights and vibrant umbrellas covering the ceiling, making us both feel slightly underdressed as we wore jorts and T-shirts. Beyond the stairs, the buffet restaurant was decked with beautiful faux foliage and featured uniquely shaped lights, as well as coloured glass lamps. There was a pleasant ambience, and as we saw many more people also sporting jorts, we felt much more comfortable. The lighting wasn’t too bright; the music wasn’t too loud. We were allowed to focus on what was important – the food and the people we shared it with.

It immediately came to mind that this would be such a perfect spot for a large group of friends who struggle to come to a consensus regarding their dinner plans, or even an indecisive couple

After being met at the front desk by a lovely member of staff, we were guided to our table by another named Raj. He then walked us through the buffet, making what could have been an overwhelming experience a simple one. We were both taken aback not only by the massive amount of food but more so by the wide variety of food. Smokin’ Hot Buffet & Grill is truly a global world tour featuring a ‘world grill’, Chinese food, Indian food, sushi, salad, and comfort food. It immediately came to mind that this would be such a perfect spot for a large group of friends who struggle to come to a consensus regarding their dinner plans, or even an indecisive couple.

Starting with drinks, there was an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, including cocktails, wine, spirits, draft beers, soft drinks, and juice. The cocktails, such as a passionfruit martini, strawberry daiquiri, or margarita, are priced at £6.50 each, making them a more affordable option compared to other establishments in Coventry. I opted for a ‘Tropical Spritz’, while my partner chose a mojito. Both drinks were enjoyable, meeting our expectations, although neither drink was very strong.

Focusing on the ‘world grill’, which includes Chicken Malai Tikka, Gilafi Seekh Kebab, Jerk Chicken Wings, and Stir-Fried Doner Kebab, it was entertaining and reassuring to witness the theatrical presentation of the kitchen staff as they showcased their abilities

Regarding the food, we did our best to explore the variety it offers. For our first plate, I opted for an array of food, including Lebanese potatoes and crispy pita bread, while my partner had the lamb doner kebab with red cabbage salad. Our second plates became increasingly questionable as we blended the Chinese section with the grill – my partner had grilled halloumi alongside Jiachang Tofu, while I had grilled king prawns, peri-peri fish, drumsticks, and noodles. Not everything was a success, with my partner not enjoying the peri peri fish too much, but regardless we were able to have something on our plates that tickled our fancy. I was particularly fond of the Jiachang Tofu, something I hadn’t had before and was worried I wouldn’t enjoy it. Similarly, the Lebanese potatoes were delectable, a thought seemingly shared by many other customers as the kitchen was constantly making more to meet demand.

Focusing on the ‘world grill’, which includes Chicken Malai Tikka, Gilafi Seekh Kebab, Jerk Chicken Wings, and Stir-Fried Doner Kebab, it was entertaining and reassuring to witness the theatrical presentation of the kitchen staff as they showcased their abilities. While concerns may arise for people about the freshness of the buffet food, the ‘world grill’ provides a sense of security, as does the open design of the kitchen, as you witness your food being crafted before you. Ultimately, my partner and I really enjoyed this section of Smokin’ Hot Buffet & Grill, undeniably finding it the most engaging. However, I hope they work to increase their vegetarian options for the grill.

I would highly recommend the buffet and grill for anyone who has the chance, as it’s an excellent choice for an evening out, offering a diverse selection of freshly prepared dishes

During the third course of food, where I had some Margherita pizza and chips, and my partner had some sushi, I also considered that this would be a great location for an individual who wants to try out a new cuisine and expand their palate. It provides the opportunity to try something different without the risk of wasting money. If something you try isn’t to your taste, there will definitely be something else that is!

As a vegetarian, I’m rarely concerned that a restaurant won’t have something for me, but I was prepared for my choices to be limited. This preparation was quickly realised as unnecessary when we witnessed the wide array of vegetarian options. Beyond the previously mentioned meals, there was also Tangy Veg Jalfrezi, Veg Fried Noodles, Mac and Cheese, and Thai Fried Rice, just to name a few. I would love to see more vegan options available, but I also appreciate that most meat options are halal, excluding separately cooked pork options, which makes the buffet more accessible to a wider market.

To conclude our time at Smokin Hot Buffet & Grill, we indulged in the dessert section. In alignment with the rest of the buffet, we were spoiled for choice. Crafted into cute cubes, there was a variety of classic dessert options, including red velvet, brownie, and tiramisu. There were also small pots of fresh fruit, marshmallows, and nuts. The bite-sized nature of the dessert section was greatly appreciated, as our appetite had dwindled after consuming numerous plates of food. We were able to enjoy our sweet treats at the end of the evening and found the novelty of the cube shapes incredibly charming.

Overall, my partner and I had a wonderful evening at Smokin Hot Buffet & Grill, leaving the venue incredibly full and incredibly satisfied. I would highly recommend the buffet and grill for anyone who has the chance, as it’s an excellent choice for an evening out, offering a diverse selection of freshly prepared dishes.

Overall: ★★★★
Food: ★★★★
Service: ★★★★★
Atmosphere: ★★★★