Red Pepper in Seattle, WA

4.4(690)Seattle, WA
Under the Radar
CallDirectionsWebsite
Solid choice

Rated 4.4 stars based on 690 reviews.

  • Family-friendly
  • Budget-friendly
  • Quick service

Best for / Not ideal for

Best for

  • Large groups
  • Quick meals
  • Casual dining
  • Families

Not ideal for

  • Fine dining seekers

At a glance

Seattle, WA • 4.4★
In the heart of Seattle's University District, Red Pepper offers a Chinese buffet experience that caters to diverse tastes. This Seattle, Washington institution boasts a 4.4-star rating and an impressive 690 reviews, with patrons raving about its all-you-can-eat options. From the spicy beef noodle soup with quail egg, spam, and bok choy to the dry hot pot featuring frog leg, lamb, and pork belly, every dish is a delight. The restaurant's wheelchair accessibility and good-for-groups atmosphere make it an ideal spot for gatherings. With parking, takeout, dineIn, delivery, and reservable options available, Red Pepper ensures a seamless dining experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this Chinese buffet is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
This family-friendly Chinese buffet welcomes diners of all ages.
Address
4545 University Wy NE, Seattle, WA 98105, USA, University District, Seattle, Washington
Phone
(206) 906-9679
Today
11:00 AM – 3:15 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Rating
4.4 (690 reviews)

What stands out

🍽️Delicious food

Multiple reviewers praise the taste and flavor

👥Friendly service

Attentive and helpful staff

✨Fresh, quality food

Multiple reviewers mention the freshness

💰Great value for families

Generous portions at reasonable prices

View reviews →

Before you go

🅿️Parking available

Convenient parking for customers

♿Wheelchair accessible

Accessible entrance and facilities

🍺Alcohol served

Beer, wine, and cocktails available

Signature Dishes

9 popular dishes mentioned by diners

Top picks

Flavor Of The Food×3Dry Hot PotGreen Sichuan Pepper BeefShredded Pork With Green Peppers

Also mentioned

Atmosphere LikeCleanlinessIts **All-You-Can-Eat** OptionsPortionsService

Extracted from diner reviews and FAQ answers.

Regional Specialist 🏮

Sichuan regional cuisine · score 60/100
Authenticity score60/100
AuthenticHot PotSichuan

Regional dishes detected

Beef Noodle Soup

Detected from menu, FAQ answers, and restaurant name.

Early Evening Only 🌇

Score 29/100 · 4 positive signals
Full night out score29/100
Late-night hours
0/30
Drinks on premises
0/20
Nightlife nearby
18/25
Entertainment
11/15
Weekend potential
0/10

What works

  • 4 bars and nightlife venues within walking distance
  • Karaoke and nightclubs nearby
  • Cinema within walking distance
  • Entertainment nearby

Keep in mind

  • No alcohol — you'll need to go elsewhere for drinks

Scored from closing hours, on-premises drinks, nearby nightlife, entertainment, and weekend hours.

Trusted Rating

⚖️ 4.4 weighted · 690 reviews
4.4weighted · raw 4.4 from 690 reviews
Needs More Reviews
Review volume vs. city median690 / 830.5 median
04,152.5 (Rock Solid threshold)

The trusted rating blends this place’s raw score (4.4) with the city average (4.37) using a Bayesian formula. Places with fewer reviews are pulled toward the city mean; places with 4152.5+ reviews carry their rating at nearly full weight.

Photos

10 photos

Hours & Location

Status: Hours available

Regular Hours

7 days
Monday
11:00 AM – 3:15 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Tuesday
11:00 AM – 3:15 PM, 5:00��– 10:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM – 3:15 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM – 3:15 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM – 3:15 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Popular Times

See when it's busiest
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat

Amenities & Services

Accessibility, service options, and dining details

Accessibility

Wheelchair, parking, and more
Wheelchair Accessible

Amenities

Available facilities and features
RestroomTV AvailableGood For GroupsGood For KidsOpen To AllWaiter Service

Atmosphere

Ambiance and setting
CasualNoise: Noise level

Dining Options

Food and beverage choices
LunchDinnerTable serviceLunchDinnerSolo dining

Service Options

Dine-in, takeout, delivery
TakeoutDine-inDeliveryReservations

Takeout service is available. Delivery service is offered.

Parking

Parking availability
Bike ParkingBusiness Parking parking

Parking is available for customers.

Payment Methods

Accepted payment types
Business Accepts Credit Cards

Highlights

Special features
Fast service

Food & Drink

Menu offerings
AlcoholBeerComfort foodHard liquorSmall plates

Planning

Reservations and groups
Accepts reservations

Reviews

690 reviews

Reviews

Customer reviews available

Loading full reviews...

Frequently Asked Questions

Common answers about this buffet

How is the flavor of the food at Red Pepper?

The food at Red Pepper has great flavor, with many dishes being described as spicy, bold, and authentic. The Green Sichuan Pepper Beef and Shredded Pork with Green Peppers are standouts, with the perfect balance of heat and flavor.

Is the food at Red Pepper fresh?

Yes, many reviewers have mentioned that the food at Red Pepper is fresh, with one reviewer stating that the fish was 'fresh and tender'.

What is the atmosphere like at Red Pepper?

The atmosphere at Red Pepper is casual and comfortable, with a focus on the food. It's a functional and comfortable space, though nothing about the atmosphere particularly stands out.

How is the service at Red Pepper?

The service at Red Pepper is generally friendly and efficient, with dishes coming out hot and fast. However, some reviewers have noted that the service has declined in recent times.

Are the portions at Red Pepper generous?

Yes, the portions at Red Pepper are generally generous, with many reviewers noting that they left full and satisfied.

Is Red Pepper a good value for the price?

Yes, many reviewers have noted that Red Pepper is a good value for the price, with generous portions and fair pricing. However, some reviewers have noted that the price can be a little high, especially considering the tips.

What are some popular dishes at Red Pepper?

Some popular dishes at Red Pepper include the Green Sichuan Pepper Beef, Shredded Pork with Green Peppers, and the dry hot pot. The spicy beef noodle soup and the cold beef dish are also highly recommended.

Is the food at Red Pepper spicy?

Yes, many dishes at Red Pepper are spicy, with some reviewers noting that the food has a good balance of heat and flavor. However, some reviewers have noted that the spice level can be mild and suitable for everyone.

Show 5 more questions

Is Red Pepper a good choice for groups?

Yes, Red Pepper is a good choice for groups, with a casual and comfortable atmosphere and generous portions. The restaurant is suitable for casual meals and group gatherings.

How is the cleanliness at Red Pepper?

One reviewer has noted that Red Pepper is a 'very clean restaurant', but there is limited information available on this topic.

Where is Red Pepper located?

Red Pepper is located at 4545 University Wy NE, Seattle, WA 98105, USA, University District, Seattle, Washington.

Does Red Pepper offer delivery or takeout?

Red Pepper offers delivery, takeout, dine-in.

Is Red Pepper good?

Red Pepper is well-rated with 4.4 stars from 690 reviews.

🍜Cultural Food Hub

A vibrant food district with diverse eateries, cafes, and cultural landmarks.

A vibrant food district with diverse eateries, cafes, and cultural landmarks.

Food & Dining
29
Retail & Shopping
12
Transportation & Automotive
10
Miscellaneous Services
10
Government & Public Services
9
Arts & Culture
8

102 nearby places across 12 categories

Nearby Places

Local services, shops, and points of interest

102 places nearby (arts & culture, finance, food, government, healthcare)

Museums & galleries

Stereotype

Artwork

~510 ft
Artwork

Artwork

~560 ft
Unity Museum

Museum

4341 1/2 University Way Northeast

~580 ft
Untitled #961

Artwork

~620 ft
Build Me Up

Artwork

~740 ft
Fragment Brooklyn

Artwork

~790 ft

Theaters & performance venues

Neptune Theatre

Theatre

1303 Northeast 45th Street

~560 ft
Landmark Varsity

Cinema

4329 University Way Northeast

~690 ft

Banking

Bank of America

Atm

~220 ft
Bank of America

Atm

~240 ft
KeyBank

Bank

4700 Brooklyn Avenue Northeast

~290 ftMo-Th 09:00-17:00; Fr 09:00-18:00; Sa-Su off
+1-206-748-3802Website
Wells Fargo

Atm

~410 ft
Chase

Bank

4501 University Way Northeast

~430 ftMo-Fr 09:00-18:00; Sa 09:00-13:00
+1-206-461-4625Website
Chase

Atm

~440 ft24/7

Restaurants

Chuanzong Red Pepper

Restaurant

4545 University Way Northeast

~0 ftMo-Su 11:00-22:00
+1-206-906-9679
Thai Tom

Restaurant

4543 University Way Northeast

~30 ftMo-Sa 11:30-21:00; Su 12:00-21:00
+1-206-548-9548Website
Pizza Twist / Taco Twist

Restaurant

4549 University Way Northeast

~50 ft
Aladdin Falafel

Restaurant

4541 University Way Northeast

~50 ftMo-Th 10:30-01:30, Fr 10:30-03:00, Sa 11:00-03:00, Su 11:00-01:30
Naan Stop

Restaurant

4549 University Way Northeast

~60 ft
+1-206-814-9098Website
Time Bistro

Restaurant

4537b University Way Northeast

~70 ftWe-Mo 11:00-22:00
+1-206-420-8826Website
Palmi Korean BBQ

Restaurant

4538 University Way Northeast

~110 ftMo-Su 11:00-23:00
+1-206-633-9993
Costa's

Restaurant

4559 University Way Northeast

~130 ft
+1-206-633-2751Website
chimac

Restaurant

4525 University Way Northeast

~200 ft
Korean Tofu House Express

Restaurant

4520 University Way Northeast

~230 ftMo-Th 10:00-21:00; Fr-Sa 10:00-22:30; Su 10:00-21:30
+1-206-922-3562Website
Taste of Xi'an

Restaurant

4523 University Way Northeast

~230 ftMo-Fr 11:00-15:30, 17:00-21:30; Sa-Su 11:00-21:30
+1-206-231-9999Website
U:Don

Restaurant

4515 University Way Northeast

~310 ft

Cafes & Coffee

Bobalust

Cafe

~80 ft
Master Bing

Cafe

4537 University Way Northeast

~100 ft
Avole

Cafe

4555 University Way Northeast

~100 ft
George Coffee and Pastries

Cafe

1317 Northeast 47th Street

~140 ft07:00-19:00
Ancient Gate Coffee Company

Coffee

4530 University Way Northeast

~170 ftMo-Sa 08:00-17:00; Su closed
Website
Tea Republik

Cafe

4527 University Way Northeast

~180 ft
CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice

Cafe

4700 Brooklyn Avenue Northeast

~250 ft
Konbit Cafe

Cafe

~260 ft
Dont Yell At Me

Cafe

4511 University Way Northeast

~330 ftMo-Su 12:00-23:00
+1-206-588-0719
Egg Street

Cafe

4507 University Way Northeast

~400 ft
Seattle Best Tea Co.

Cafe

4505 University Way Northeast

~410 ftTu,We,Su 11:00-20:00; Fr,Sa 11:00-21:00; Mo,Th off
O Dessert

Cafe

4727 University Way Northeast

~430 ft

Grocery & Markets

7-Eleven

Convenience

4700 University Way Northeast

~240 ft
+1-206-409-5327Website
Safeway

Supermarket

4732 Brooklyn Avenue Northeast

~610 ftMo-Su 06:00-01:00
Website
7-Eleven

Convenience

1105 Northeast 47th Street

~700 ft24/7
+1-206-547-9764Website

Bars & Pubs

The Mountaineering Club

Bar

4507 Brooklyn Avenue Northeast

~520 ftMo-Th 15:00-24:00; Fr 00:00-02:00,15:00-24:00; Sa,Su 00:00-02:00,12:00-24:00
+1-206-634-2000Website
Earl's on the Ave

Bar

4333 University Way Northeast

~650 ft

Waste management

Recycling center

Recycling

~120 ft
Waste bin

Waste Basket

~120 ft
Recycling center

Recycling

~140 ft
Waste bin

Waste Basket

~140 ft
Recycling center

Recycling

~230 ft
Waste bin

Waste Basket

~230 ft

Government offices

City of Seattle Customer Service Center

Government

4534 University Way Northeast

~140 ftTu-Sa 09:00-17:00

Postal services

United States Postal Service

Post Box

~300 ft
United States Postal Service

Post Box

~790 ft

Other healthcare

Dream Clinic

Massage

4519 1/2 University Way Northeast

~270 ft

Specialists

Nicole O'Bryan DMD Denistry

Dentist

4741 University Way Northeast

~600 ftMo-We 08:00-17:00; Th 07:00-16:00; Fr-Su closed
+1-206-524-9454Website
Davis Optical

Optician

4325 University Way Northeast

~730 ft

Other services

Inner Visions

Interior Decoration

4548 University Way Northeast

~100 ft
Cloudz Vape and Glass

E Cigarette

4540 University Way Northeast

~100 ft
Seattle Community Network

Hackerspace

~130 ft24/7
+1 253-655-7221Website
/dev/hack

Hackerspace

4534 ½ University Way Northeast

~130 ft
Website
University Laundry Center

Laundry

4522 Brooklyn Avenue Northeast

~250 ftMo-Sa 09:00-20:00; Su 09:00-19:00
+1-206-853-6522Website
KUOW

Studio

4518 University Way Northeast

~270 ft
+1-206-543-2710Website
Mail Etc Inc

Copyshop

4730 University Way Northeast

~430 ft
Clock

Clock

~460 ft
Golden Smoke House

E Cigarette

4344 University Way Northeast

~550 ft
EZ Copy & Print

Copyshop

4336 University Way Northeast

~650 ftMo-Th 08:00-19:30; Fr 08:00-18:30; Sa 09:30-18:00; Su 09:30-17:30

Beauty & spa

Luminati

Beauty

4546 University Way Northeast

~90 ft

Body art

Deep Roots

Tattoo

4517 University Way Northeast

~290 ft

Hair services

HB Hair Salon

Hairdresser

4507 University Way Northeast

~380 ft
Top Hair Studio

Hairdresser

4723 University Way Northeast

~470 ft
Shanti Threading Salon

Hairdresser

4340 University Way Northeast

~610 ftMo-Fr 11:00-19:00; Sa,Su 11:00-18:00
Rudy’s Barber Shop

Hairdresser

4738 University Way Northeast

~610 ftMo-Su 09:00-21:00
+1-206-527-5267Website

Professional services

Woven by Toyota

Company

1121 Northeast 45th Street

~790 ft
Website

Gaming & arcades

Flee Escape Game

Escape Game

4556 University Way Northeast

~140 ftTu-Fr 13:00-20:00; Sa-Su 11:00-20:00; Mo off
+1-206-376-4188Website

Parks & amenities

Bench

Bench

~280 ft
Bench

Bench

~300 ft
Bench

Bench

~330 ft
Bench

Bench

~350 ft

Entertainment venues

Novabox Karaoke

Nightclub

4744 University Way Northeast

~670 ft

Electronics & technology

Al's Music & Games

Electronics

4547 University Way Northeast

~20 ftMo-Su 11:00-21:00
HiFi LoFi

Music

4544 University Way Northeast

~90 ft
Website
Pink Gorilla

Video Games

4341 University Way Northeast

~570 ft
Neptune Music Co.

Music

4344 Brooklyn Avenue Northeast

~580 ftMo-Sa 11:00-19:30; Su 12:00-19:30
+1-206-632-0202

Clothing & fashion

Lucky Dog On the Ave

Clothes

4542 University Way Northeast

~100 ft
Late Night Vintage Mall

Clothes

4552 University Way Northeast

~130 ft12:00-24:00
Red Light

Clothes

4560 University Way Northeast

~160 ftMo-Sa 11:00-20:00; Su 11:00-19:00; Nov Th[4] closed; Dec 25 closed
+1-206-545-4044Website
Lines Up

Boutique

4721 University Way Northeast

~420 ft
Rax Vintage

Clothes

4341 1/2 University Way Northeast

~580 ftMo-Fr 11:00-20:00; Sa,Su 11:00-24:00
Lucky Vintage

Clothes

4742 University Way Northeast

~640 ftMo-Sa 12:00-19:00; Su 11:00-18:00
+1-206-523-6621Website

Specialty stores

Gargoyles Statuary

Gift

4550 University Way Northeast

~110 ftMo-Sa 11:00-19:00; Su 12:00-19:00
+1-206-632-4940Website
University Smoke Shop

Tobacco

4519 University Way Northeast

~270 ft

Gyms & fitness centers

The Yoga Shala

Fitness Centre

~150 ft
Seattle Bouldering Project

Fitness Centre

4502 University Way Northeast

~430 ftMo-Fr 06:00-22:00; Sa,Su 07:00-22:00

Parking facilities

SDOT

Bicycle Parking

~140 ft
SDOT

Bicycle Parking

~150 ft
SDOT

Bicycle Parking

~200 ft
Bicycle parking

Bicycle Parking

~220 ft
Bicycle parking

Bicycle Parking

~230 ft
SDOT

Bicycle Parking

~240 ft
Bicycle parking

Bicycle Parking

~240 ft
Bicycle parking

Bicycle Parking

~270 ft
SDOT

Bicycle Parking

~290 ft
Bicycle parking

Bicycle Parking

~300 ft