Ewwwww. My grandpa practically lives here (hello, embodying stereotype). Hometown Buffet is inherently depressing if only based upon the clientele -- it's all the town's elderly and low-income folks plus country hicks that make the drive special just for hometown. I felt inappropriately dressed, as we were heading to a Christmas party after and my jeans + heels + blouse made me feel like I was begging for attention or something (for the record, I was underdressed for the party. Can't win 'em all).
Jodi is the sweetest in the world. She always takes care of my grandpa.
It's not that the food is horrible, it's just that it is what it is and the ambiance doesn't help it any. We always humor him when we're in town, but if it weren't for that I wouldn't dream of stepping foot in this place.