Grand Buffet, Cincinnati

Diners' eyes rise as soon as they enter Grand Buffet's front doors, gazing up toward the ornate crystal chandelier that dangles from the ceiling and casts its gentle glow throughout the dining room. Beneath this glimmering light, guests have the opportunity to indulge in a menu of regional Chinese cuisine inspired by recipes found throughout the country. Dishes such as spicy, Hunan-style chicken, moo shu pork, and fiery, Szechuan-style beef represent the menu's broad geographical scope. Lobster fried rice, vegetable lo mein, and other familiar favorites help round out the selection. To ensure that their cooking can be tailored to suit almost any palate, the chefs are willing to adjust the amount of spice in certain dishes. These entrees can feature anything from a mild, warming spice to an incendiary amount of heat that could turn an ice sculpture into a steam sculpture.