Think you’ve experienced all that buffet dining in Somerset has to offer? Think again.
Six months ago, brothers Afzal and Salman Ahmad quietly opened Somerset Buffet in Taunton, bringing an unexpected fusion of Indian, Thai, Japanese, Mexican, and grilled cuisines—all under one roof. What might sound like an ambitious concept has quickly become a local favourite, renowned for its freshness and authenticity that’s capturing attention well beyond the town centre.
“We’re not just another Indian restaurant,” Afzal says. “People often assume that because we’re Asian, but this is truly multi-cuisine. It’s fresh, varied, and if you want, we’ll make your dish to order.”
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Originally from Milton Keynes, the Ahmad brothers first ventured to the South West in 2016 with Lopen Raj, a multi-cuisine restaurant in South Petherton village.
“We visited the area and fell in love with it,” Afzal recalls. “We decided this was where we wanted to settle, so we moved and started the business. It’s been thriving ever since.”
That success inspired them to dream even bigger. When the opportunity came to take over Somerset Masala in Taunton, the brothers seized it—not to continue the Indian restaurant, but to reinvent the space entirely. Thus, Somerset Buffet was born.
Step inside Somerset Buffet and you’re met with a carefully curated spread of global flavours—not the tired, reheated trays you might expect from a typical buffet. Afzal emphasizes their focus on quality over quantity.
“We keep dishes in small batches on display,” he explains. “When something runs out, we cook it fresh. This ensures every item remains top quality. Our chefs have experience working in five-star hotels in India and Nepal—they truly know their craft.”
One standout is their grilled menu, a product of years of refinement since 2012 when the brothers worked in Bedford. Afzal proudly claims it’s unmatched within a 50-mile radius. From his personal favourite, sweet and sour chicken, to authentic Thai curries, spicy Mexican dishes, and classic Japanese staples, the wide-ranging menu is surprisingly harmonious.
Somerset Buffet’s polished launch is no accident—it’s the result of years of experience. Their time at Lopen Raj provided not only a blueprint but a dedicated team and tried-and-tested systems.
“We already had the chefs, the manpower, and the culinary know-how,” Afzal says. “Launching was straightforward. Within a month, we were ready.”
Yet transitioning to a buffet format brought new challenges. “It’s a different game,” he admits. “In traditional restaurants, you take orders and serve. Buffets require managing flow, variety, and timing. We struggled at first but have since found our rhythm.”
Since opening in October, customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive—even if some remain unsure about what Somerset Buffet exactly offers.
“There’s another Chinese buffet in town,” Afzal explains. “Sometimes people confuse us with that, but once they visit, they see we’re completely different.”
Flexibility is a key strength. While there’s an extensive buffet selection, customers can request dishes not currently on display for fresh preparation. This personalized approach, combined with diverse cuisine, is building a loyal and growing customer base.
Looking ahead to summer, the brothers plan to expand with outdoor seating and an even broader menu to attract more diners in the warmer months.
“We want to add more variety and create an outdoor space to offer even more,” Afzal shares. “It’s about evolving.”
Though he doesn’t play favourites, Afzal admits he has a soft spot for sweet and sour chicken. “But truly, I love everything we serve,” he laughs. “That’s the beauty of what we do. There’s something for everyone.”
In a dining scene often defined by narrow themes or single cuisines, Somerset Buffet stands out as a rare gem—embracing variety without compromising on quality. Run by a family passionate about their craft and their Somerset community, it offers more than just a meal; it’s a multi-cultural dining experience built on years of expertise and genuine love for the region.
If you’re in Taunton and craving something different—whether it’s Thai curry, Japanese sushi, fiery Mexican dishes, or a sizzling grill plate—Somerset Buffet awaits your visit.
“We guarantee you’ll enjoy it,” Afzal says confidently. “Just come and try it.”