About This Spot

Stepping into Lai Lai Asian Buffet and Dining feels like settling into a familiar, unhurried corner of Monett where the warmth of a shared meal is front and center. The atmosphere hums gently with the quiet rhythm of plates being filled and conversations weaving through the air. It’s a casual local eatery where the pace allows you to savor both food and company without rush, whether you’re dining in or picking up a comforting takeout.

The buffet line offers a reassuring variety that invites exploration—the kind of offerings where each visit might reveal a new favorite or a well-loved staple prepared just right. The flavors here carry a careful balance, with dishes that hold onto their freshness and texture, like crisp vegetables and sizzling proteins that come together in familiar yet thoughtful combinations. The experience extends beyond the food itself, grounded in the steady, welcoming presence of a team who keeps the steam tables hot and the service genuine.

There’s a comforting consistency in the visit — whether it’s the bright pop of spice that lingers in a well-executed Szechuan dish, the crispy snap of perfectly made egg rolls, or the sweet finish of a softly melting dessert. This is a spot where neighbors seem to cross paths regularly, drawn by the subtle blend of reliability and warmth that comes from genuine effort and care in the kitchen.

For those willing to take a short drive beyond the main drag, Lai Lai offers a peaceful retreat from the everyday. It’s a place where you can rely on a meal that feels freshly prepared and thoughtfully seasoned, a quietly satisfying pause in the day’s rhythm that feels a little like coming home.

What’s Available Here

  • IconDrive-through
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconDelivery
  • IconGreat tea selection
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconAll you can eat
  • IconCoffee
  • IconComfort food
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSalad bar
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconDessert
  • IconSeating
  • IconTable service
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconTrendy
  • IconFamily friendly
  • IconGroups
  • IconLocals
  • IconTourists
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconHigh chairs
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Monday 11:00 AM - 02:30 PM , 04:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 11:00 AM - 02:30 PM , 04:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 11:00 AM - 02:30 PM , 04:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 11:00 AM - 02:30 PM , 04:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Sunday Closed

Guest Reviews

Colton Robinson 26 Dec 2025

Solid spot for some good food. I got takeout and everything was hot, fresh, and tasty. The General Tso’s chicken was especially good — crispy with a nice kick. The staff was friendly and the whole experience was easy and pleasant. I’ll definitely be back when I’m craving some comfort food.

Randall Miller 23 Dec 2025

Hit the buffett as usual lol it's always good! Hot and fresh, rarely an empty container on the steam table. Love the spicy dishes, general tso chicken,szechuan pork,szechuan beef and pepper, egg rolls and dumplings Nuff Sed

Stephen McBee 16 Oct 2025

I had the classic Springfield style cashew chicken, which was very good. Service was on point. The place was clean.

Frans Schilling 14 Oct 2025

Drive out to Monett, Missouri from Springfield based on a friend's recommendation. He wasn't wrong. Much better than any Chinese restaurant in Springfield. Definitely worth the 45 minute drive. Food was fresh and hot. Vegetables were not overcooked. They still has some crispness to them.

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