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In the vast landscape of culinary exploration, buffets have often been a realm I’ve tread with caution as an adult. Frequently, buffets seem to prioritize quantity over quality, striving to please a wide range of palates at the expense of the artistry of cuisine. Additionally, the self-service aspect, with folks hovering over dishes and unruly children navigating the serving stations, often threatens to tarnish the dining experience. As a critic, I relish the opportunity to let professionals handle every aspect of my meal, even at a premium.
However, I recently made an exception, quite reluctantly I must admit, during my visit to Montgomery, Alabama. Martha’s Place Buffet and Catering, nestled at 7780 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36117, compelled me to reconsider my stance. The dining room, although cavernous and dimly lit, was impeccably clean. Here, the dining areas are overseen by a staff that straddles the line between servers and traditional buffet attendants. You’re still expected to procure your own fare, but the attentive staff efficiently refills drinks and caters to your other needs.
Now, the food, brothers and sisters, was nothing short of a revelation! The fried chicken was, without a doubt, the standout. The Southern fried chicken plate was a chorus of flavors. Each succulent, tender morsel was encased in a crisp, golden-brown coating that spoke volumes about the kitchen’s culinary prowess. The seasoning, meticulously balanced, transformed every bite into a savory masterpiece. It’s a bold claim, but Martha’s Place may just be home to some of the finest fried chicken to grace the city.
Moving on to their classic Southern meatloaf, crowned with a rich tomato sauce, I found myself transported to the comforting embrace of home-cooked goodness. The meatloaf was moist, brimming with flavor, and showcased an expert fusion of ground meats and well-seasoned vegetables. However, it was the tomato topping that truly elevated this dish. A tangy, luscious tomato sauce lent a delightful contrast to the savory meatloaf. The sweet and slightly acidic notes harmonized impeccably with the meat, creating a nostalgic journey through comfort cuisine. A solid 4 out of 5 for this comforting classic.
And then, there were the sides. I must admit, every single side dish was a pleasant surprise. However, it was the salad bar that truly dazzled, surpassing even the main entrees. Yes, you read that correctly – a buffet salad bar that deserves accolades. If there’s one drawback, it’s the exclusive use of iceberg lettuce. A minor quibble, I hope they consider a slight price adjustment to incorporate romaine in the future. Nevertheless, the salad bar boasted an array of excellent toppings. But the revelation was the TUNA FISH! Flaky, tender tuna, impeccably mixed with creamy mayo, a hint of zesty seasoning, and sweet relish, transcended expectations. A taste so profound that one could easily craft a remarkable tuna sandwich, worthy of the most discerning palate.
Martha’s Place Buffet and Catering defied my preconceived notions of buffets, coaxing me into an establishment I was reluctant to explore. They’ve masterfully crafted a menu that balances quality with an astonishingly reasonable price point. Coupled with a clean and efficient dining area, regularly refreshed dishes, and unwavering quality, it’s an establishment I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting Montgomery. Do yourself a favor and savor their tuna, fried chicken, and meatloaf. Oh, and if you’re side-eyeing the other plate, wondering why I haven’t mentioned it, well, it’s because I thought it was a hamburger steak, but turned out to be liver and onions. That made me sad. For inquiries, contact them at (334) 356-7165.
