The difference in function with the buffet is that buffets are self serve. But the main difference for me is the quality. Buffets are always underwhelming. The

The difference in function with the buffet is that buffets are self serve. But the main difference for me is the quality. Buffets are always underwhelming. The food is basic and barely palatable. While cafeterias have a pretty solid quality and taste equal to a proper mid range restaurant. Even in Canada. I’ve had a chance to work at a military base on a contract. There was a cafeteria on the base. The food was amazingly good and dirt cheap. It was like half the cost of a basic McDonald’s meal, twice the size and nutritious.