XIAO Essen in Essen

Food was great but drinks were a complete nightmare everything tasted like water or had no carbonation even the homemade drinks tasted like nothing

A truly fantastic buffet restaurant! The ambiance is very appealing, and the selection is diverse. The quality of the dishes is impressive, and the drinks are always refilled quickly and freshly. Particularly noteworthy is the friendly and attentive staff, who create a pleasant atmosphere. The value for money is also excellent. We'd be happy to come back!

Very nice atmosphere, very nice staff and the food here is also great👍🏼 I'll definitely be back ☺️

Very friendly staff. You can also order at the table using a QR code - very advanced☺️ Price was 19.90 at the buffet on Saturday, very fair. The quality of the food is consistently very good, but of course I wasn't able to try everything. The sushi is particularly good. All in all it was a very nice stay, I'll be back soon 😄

I think the service here is great. The employees are friendly and work quickly, the food was very tasty. There was a lot to choose from 🥰

The line of restaurants is very different to me, tanto en food, ambience, decoration, etc. The only time I was sharing it was that it was reserved until 7 p.m. and the kitchen was open for a period of 2 or 3 hours, but it was also available for 1 hour. I find the Xiao restaurant series wonderful, both in terms of food, atmosphere, decoration, etc. The only thing that seemed bad to me was that even though we had booked for 7pm and taking into account the fact that the kitchen closed two or three hours later, we had to wait about an hour to get in.

The food was very tasty and there was a large selection of different dishes. The drinks also tasted good and were offered at reasonable prices. The manager Dennis welcomed us very friendly. The service was really friendly and we felt very comfortable. We are already looking forward to the next time.

There was a large selection of food and everything tasted great. The waitresses are very polite and the manager Dennis is particularly nice. We're already looking forward to the next time

The place, food and treatment are very bad🤮

The food tastes good, the service is very friendly. It's nice to sit outside when the weather is nice. It's already set up. The waitresses are also very friendly.

Very good food, very friendly staff.

The buffet was high quality and not overloaded. Not all the “classics” of an Asian restaurant are all you can eat, but there is taste and a lot of it is handmade. With the fresh grill, however, I was missing a little more classic. I don't want a kangaroo, I'd like to use some beef or lamb. The fish was great. We'd love to come back!

That was our first visit to Essener Xiao. But I have already been to many other locations, so I know the concept and the dishes on offer very well. The atmosphere is pleasant like everywhere else, the service was very friendly. Unfortunately I have to say that the food was really too bland for me. Not well seasoned, the noodles had hardly any taste, the curry rice in other xiaos is spicy to spicy, which I really like - unfortunately it's also very bland here. The nuggets, on the other hand, were too salty for my son, but my daughter liked them. My children absolutely loved the desserts, and my daughter particularly liked the mango sorbet.

Clear recommendation! Nice staff, delicious food, very large selection.

Very nice atmosphere, large selection at the buffet, everything fresh and very tasty. Very good service from the staff, Finn served us very attentively and quickly. We'd love to come back.

Huong in the bar was awesome! Great cocktails

The atmosphere was cozy, service was smooth, wide choices of buffet options and especially the desserts

We were there this evening, the food wasn't tasty at all, sushi was very hard, the taste of the food was okay! You can't compare food in Xiao Oberhausen! Once there and never again!

Good quality, nice service We had lunch as everything was good

Unfortunately, I'm generally not that enthusiastic about the xiao chain. Nevertheless, the xiao in Essen makes a positive difference.

I was recommended this location and I have to say it more than exceeded my expectations!

The ambience and service are good. I didn't find it too loud despite the size and open area. The food was okay. The finished dishes were good. The sushi was okay and solid. The fresh food prepared with your own ingredients that you choose yourself was good. In my opinion, the sauces could have had a bit more oomph. I really liked the dessert and the selection! I think everyone will find something they like here.

We were brought to the table quickly, but no one took care of us after that. Even though the waiter said I'll be here in 2 minutes. After waiting for 10 minutes, we got up and left because he preferred to take the order from the next guests. Sorry it doesn't work

A beautiful evening. Delicious food and had a very dedicated service employee in Finn.

Went there on a Saturday evening and it was very busy. Of course, the budget was empty here and there. But every effort was made to restock everything quickly. Very friendly staff and delicious food. Given the number of people, it was of course quite loud, so a star deduction for ambience. If it's a little empty it's perfectly fine.

Very tasty at a very fair price. I wasn't entirely convinced by the sushi buffet, but it was appropriate for the price.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Good buffet, but the fresh food counter needs improvement The Xiao in Essen is an Asian restaurant with a pleasant ambience and a delicious buffet that offers a wide selection of dishes. We were particularly impressed by the buffet food, which was fresh, tasty and well seasoned. Unfortunately there were some problems at the fresh food counter, where you can hand over raw ingredients for frying. The waiting time was very long and the result was often disappointing - either the food was not cooked properly or it was burnt. In addition, sometimes there were ingredients or sauces on the plate that you hadn't chosen, which spoiled the enjoyment. The staff was very friendly and helpful, but unfortunately we had to wait quite a long time to pay. If these points are improved, we would like to come back because we liked the concept and the rest of the food!

It is an extraordinary place. The food is very diverse and delicious. I really do not understand the people who have bad comments. There are various halal and vegetarian dishes. We have been there 3-4 times and we were very satisfied each time and we are thinking of visiting again. The employees are very polite. It gets crowded on weekends, I recommend you to make a reservation. I think the price performance is quite good. It is cheaper for those under 18 years old (between 15-20 Euros). For adults (between 20-25 Euros). Here is what you leave on your plate. You pay for it (a certain amount), but you can buy a box and take it with you. There is an open buffet here. All you can eat. I find the open buffet very good. There are various dishes, desserts, ice creams and fruits in the open buffet. I think there is only one downside, and that is the drinks; drinks are not included in the open buffet. Other than that, it is definitely a 5 star place. Definitely come, you will never regret it. In a word, it is perfect. My favorite place💗😍

-good food -lots of choice -good price-quality ratio -For allergies, ask for the allergy card

It's always a lot of fun to eat at this restaurant. The food is of very high quality and everything is freshly prepared and replenished without asking every time, from starter to main course to dessert, there is everything you could wish for

GREAT! Rarely have I seen such a good and varied buffet. Taste 1a

To be honest, no criticism so far, except that some people might find the drinks a bit too expensive.

If you don't find anything tasty here, it's your own fault. Plenty of Asian food, fresh grill to put together yourself, soup, vegetables, salad and fruit buffet. Sushi, fish and seafood, large cakes and a selection of desserts. It's really worth it and we love coming here

Unfortunately they didn't have much of a choice. There were no shrimp 🍤 and teriyaki salmon. Unfortunately, the sushi and desserts were stale. After eating, I vomited at home. I really enjoyed the non-alcoholic cocktail.

I can highly recommend this place. Since I will eat here more often now.

This was our second time there. The food is simply great, I can only recommend it.

Food was very tasty, the atmosphere looked very nice. Super fast service.

Very bad experience! The restaurant was disappointing in every way. The choice of food was extremely limited, the dishes were old and not very appealing. The tables were dirty and the overall atmosphere was very unpleasant. Definitely not recommended!

I can't understand some of the bad reviews here! We have been here several times and have been thrilled every time. The service is really great, the waiters are all very nice, they always ask if you are satisfied. Anyone who says there isn't enough at the lunch buffet has, in my opinion, never been to other buffet restaurants. There is a huge selection of food (sushi, salads, lots of Chinese cuisine, noodle bakes, many different desserts, fruit, etc.). We will be back soon and will remain loyal guests. 😊

The food is very tasty and thanks to all you can eat you will definitely be more than full. However, the atmosphere is not that nice, it seems a bit like a "food factory" and is rather loud. The space gives gym vibes.

Unfortunately not recommended. Service overwhelmed, grill couldn't be tried because my plate was lost. Food average. Don't come back

Unfortunately an absolute disaster, reservations are accepted but there is no space. Customers can then wait until something is available. Nobody cares about opinions either. The employees on site are not to blame, the system as a whole is simply very bad!

It was OK! Not particularly great or tasty, but not bad either. Can you go there?

Were there today on Valentine's Day. I was very cheeky at the reception and then there was a hair in my pasta. After I pointed this out to the waitress, all I got was a sorry, the manager is coming straight to the table. Of course, no one came and I think that's an impertinence, so only one star!!! And never again Xiao

Everything great. Finn is the best.

Recommendation! Something for everyone and very good for buffet food.

Was there from 12-4. Pleasantly quiet, not overcrowded... Highly recommended.

The best food, super tasty, great service

Enjoy your meal. The service was very nice. Finn was very nice to us

I visited the xiao restaurant on February 10, 2025 at 4 p.m. and said Mehrling. Everything was tasty, they have a large selection. You can take as much as you want. Mongolian grilled fruit cakes for example salmon. I was very enthusiastic and the young, slim waiter, about 20 years old (somewhat tattooed) was very friendly, nice and accommodating. For his service and service from the waiter (somewhat tattooed), grade,,: 👍 very good'. 👍

Antonella <3 a very nice service and super accommodating! I recommend you come here during the week

Great food. Super nice and efficient service. I will 100% come back.

We always enjoy coming here. A great selection, great and very nice staff! Tuan is my favorite waiter.

“they see me rollin’…” 😎 Always very tasty 🤤

Food could be a little warmer but otherwise nice atmosphere and very nice “hall”

Very nice staff...good food and a great Suhsi selection.

It was very good and very tasty and the service was also very friendly

Very cozy atmosphere. A wide variety of food and very tasty. Service is great!👍

I first visited the Xiao Essen Restaurant. The food was delicious, but there was no meat in the buffet. However, when paying, I was shocked when the waiter himself charged 3 euros as a tip without asking! Very rude behavior

This is a great restaurant. Food is fresh and crispy. Service is a bit slow. Unfortunately the drinks are not that good. We were 8 visitors and ordered cola and ice tea. They weren't cold and without ice. Cola was like a syrup, without carbon dioxide and with a lot of water in it. Ice tea wasn't even a tea but a dark sweet water. It had to be better! Unfortunately we are disappointed! Too bad! VG

Super nice service and the food is very varied, delicious and rich.

I love eating here for special occasions 😍

As always great. Thank you Tuan for the good support!

I was at Xiao for the second time today, but at lunchtime at 1 p.m., as it was considerably cheaper than in the evening. But as a guest you also get to feel that. When we arrived, we were first asked whether we wanted to order drinks, but since we were still waiting for two other guests, a waiter wordlessly placed a QR code voucher on the table without giving us instructions. This meant you could order drinks yourself using your cell phone without calling the staff. Ok, let's clear that up. When we were full, we ordered our drinks via cell phone, it worked relatively well. The waiting time was a bit long but ok. Now to the actual annoyance. The food at the buffet was a disappointment. Every second bowl was empty. Whether salmon, gyozas, chicken curry or just normal cooked rice. Furthermore, the food was cold. I'm really not someone who writes reviews on Google every day to express my displeasure or to portray Bertiebe badly. But I really have to say that it was a very big disappointment. Even though €19.90 per person (without drinks) isn't in the higher price segment, today's visit was sobering. For a manageable cold to lukewarm Asian buffet plus drinks for 6 people at €175, that was a bit painful.

It was very tasty and the service was so nice and friendly, I mean his name was Sven great!! I can only recommend it

I didn't like some of the dishes. It was too fatty, too peppery, too overcooked or too salty. But in principle it works.

Unfortunately, it's absolutely mass-produced food, so everything tastes good. I've never had fried noodles like this before. Unfortunately they didn't taste good at all. If you like authentic Asian food, you're better off at many other restaurants in Essen.

We have been here several times since it opened. Unfortunately, things tend to get worse and worse. Few staff, so you have to wait a long time for drinks or the possibility of ordering. We no longer use live cooking because it takes ages for the food to be brought out. The cleanliness of the buffet and floor often leaves a lot to be desired.

Very nice shop, good service, average food!

Very tasty food, well priced and very friendly and quick staff.

We were there again for lunch today and, as always, we were very satisfied. The food is varied, there should be something for every taste. In our opinion, the price-performance ratio is top. We always enjoy coming back.

I used to like going to Xiao, but today it was a bit disappointing. Basically, the no waste campaign is a good idea. However, it is no longer “all you can try”. And when the food from the grill sits on the pass for so long that it arrives at the table dry and cold or there are simply things on the plate that you didn't choose, then that's absurd. I also think a no alcohol rule under 18 makes sense. If my almost 18-year-old daughter orders a Lillet with me using the QR code function, but is then not allowed to drink it, that is an error in the system. There is no mention of this in the menu and we were not informed about it in advance. And when serving, the waitress was unnecessarily assertive and harsh. It's a shame, but even with the reduced prices it's no longer worth visiting.

Enjoy your meal. Antonella does a great job.

Actually already. The freshly fried one should just be a little quicker.

A culinary experience for all senses! Last year (2024) I had the pleasure of visiting the all-you-can-eat restaurant XIAO in Essen and it was an all-round great experience! Here are my impressions: 1. Variety and quality of food The selection of food was impressive! From fresh salads to exotic specialties and delicious desserts, there was something for every taste. I was particularly impressed by the quality of the ingredients - everything was fresh, perfectly prepared and tasted delicious. 2. Value for money The price is more than fair for the variety and quality offered. What is particularly worth highlighting is that not only can you eat unlimited food, but you can also enjoy many high-quality dishes that are often more expensive in other restaurants. 3. Atmosphere and ambience The atmosphere was modern and inviting. The tables were well arranged so that you had enough privacy even when it was full. The lighting and decoration created a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. 4. Service The staff was extremely friendly and attentive. Plates were cleared quickly and you always felt welcome. I found it particularly nice that the staff were competent and helpful when I had questions about the food. 5. Cleanliness and hygiene The cleanliness of the entire restaurant was exemplary - from the tables to the buffet display to the sanitary facilities. This is a crucial point for me, especially with an all-you-can-eat concept, and this is where the restaurant really impressed. 6. Drink selection The drinks menu was varied and offered something for every taste - from soft drinks to cocktails to matching wines and beers. The quality was good here too. Conclusion: A perfect place to indulge in culinary delights. No matter whether you go with friends, family or as a couple – everyone will be full and happy here! I will definitely come back and can only recommend it.

First time Xiao, joar very large hall, very modern furnishings. Like all new restaurants these days. Comfort is missing. The waiter will take you to the table and explain the principle to you. There is only buffet! Prices vary. If you leave food, you have to pay a fine of €2. No food should be thrown away. You can also take “leftovers” with you from 9:30 p.m. for little money in your own deposit system. (Unfortunately there is no uniform system in Germany, so I, coming from another city, cannot use the offer). Lots of choice. Typical of this type of buffet. Everything tasted fresh and delicious. You will find something for every taste here. You can also have a dish put together and it will be freshly prepared in front of you. Of course, drinks have to be paid extra. The staff was very nice and quick. Very good.

Even one star is too many! Too little selection and the prices are overpriced

The place was super good, the atmosphere and the place were very clean. But the quality of the food is super low, I have not been able to eat almost anything since the taste and quality of the products is very low and bad. I don't recommend it.

It was super nice, very tasty and above all clean!

Great visit to this restaurant! The service was excellent, especially the waiter Finn, who was always attentive and friendly. The food was significantly higher quality than in other all-you-can-eat restaurants. I was really impressed by the ambience: for Essen standards, the restaurant was incredibly stylish and well thought out - modern but cozy at the same time. It was also a nice gesture that Christian gave me a bottle of soy sauce as a gift. Highly recommended.

Great food, really relaxed for a Sunday. New prices make it much more attractive to drop by spontaneously. Unfortunately the toilets weren't as clean as usual today, possibly due to the late time, hence only 4 stars for service.

Unfortunately, our visit was rather disappointing. The restaurant was crowded and hectic, and the staff was visibly overwhelmed. I was even almost run over by employees twice. Rice was missing from the buffet on two out of three visits - a clear negative point for an Asian restaurant. The sushi tongs were also greasy and seemed unhygienic. There was a long line for dessert because there was only one ice cream scoop tongs available. Our drinks didn't arrive until we were already eating dessert, which added to the sense of chaos. Finding a parking space was also tedious, and we found the fact that glass straws for cocktails are charged extra annoying. A cocktail with crushed ice is hardly drinkable without a straw - charging 50 cents extra for it seems petty. Simply make them 50 cents or a euro more expensive - no one will notice. In comparison, we like the “Xiao” in Gelsenkirchen, Oberhausen and Recklinghausen much better. We will eat there again in the future.

Very friendly staff, food very tasty. Drinks have to be paid extra, but that sort of separates the wheat from the chaff 😉

Despite being on time, the table wasn't ready and was initially ignored by the staff!

This is a wonderful restaurant and the staff are all very friendly. I would definitely recommend it again and again

Very large selection of dishes. With ready-made dishes and ones you have put together yourself for the grill. Plus a large selection of desserts. There are enough parking spaces available. Since the price reduction the price has been ok again.

All in all pretty good. The service was outstanding! The selection is quite good.

We were warmly welcomed and served even without a reservation. Our waiter was very attentive and always had a quick joke on his lips. Despite the busy restaurant and the many small children, it was surprisingly not noisy and it was easy to have a conversation. The food was good and there was something for every taste. It was always freshly refilled. Unfortunately, the man at the grill was probably a little overwhelmed. Unfortunately, the meat was burnt on both plates and the dishes were drowned in sauce. The sauces weren't really my thing either. Sweet and sour was very ketchup heavy. The soy sauce was too sour for me. There were also problems with the plates. More than once there were none to be found anywhere and it took some time until some were there again.

Food is really good for such a mass production. Even without glutamate and everything is very tasty. Unfortunately, the service often doesn't keep up with the cutlery and plates.

The staff was very friendly, the atmosphere is nice and cozy, clean. We were a little disappointed with the food. Some of the plates at the buffet were set too hot. The salmon half was cooked completely dry, the gyoza was dried out around the edges, the crispy duck was dry and the consistency was rather rubbery. Likewise the Onion Rings. Other dishes, e.g. beef with onions, grilled and fried vegetables and noodles were very good, sushi is not worth trying. It would be nice to see information about the spiciness of the dishes. Since I find the quality of the food in a restaurant very important, I give it 3 stars overall, the staff deserves 5 stars.

no tasty food. falling apart sushi and rolls. We didn't like the desserts either. This is a place for those who don't care what they eat. never again!

I recently visited XIAO in Essen, and I must say, it was an incredible experience from start to finish. Without hesitation, I give them a full 5 out of 5 stars, and here’s why. From the moment I walked in, the staff at XIAO made me feel warmly welcomed. They were attentive, friendly, and genuinely enthusiastic about ensuring that every guest had a great time. It was clear that customer satisfaction was their top priority. They were quick to take my order, offered helpful recommendations, and checked in regularly without being intrusive. It’s rare to find a restaurant where the service is this seamless and polished. The food at XIAO was absolutely phenomenal. Every dish was prepared with great attention to detail, and the flavors were perfectly balanced. The menu had a wide variety of options, so there was something for everyone. I was particularly impressed by the freshness of the ingredients and the vibrant presentation of the dishes. Everything I tried was bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The portions were generous, and the quality was consistent throughout the meal. XIAO has a wonderful ambiance that makes it an ideal spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. The decor was modern and stylish, yet cozy, with a warm color palette and tasteful lighting. The atmosphere struck the perfect balance between lively and relaxing, making it easy to enjoy your meal while soaking in the surroundings. The music added to the experience, creating a fun and welcoming vibe without being overpowering. XIAO Essen delivers the perfect trifecta of excellent service, mouthwatering food, and a delightful atmosphere. Whether you’re dining solo, with friends, or celebrating a special event, this place has everything you need for a memorable experience. I can’t wait to return and explore more of their menu. It’s clear that XIAO takes pride in every aspect of their restaurant, and it truly shows. Highly recommended!

Nicer than expected. Very nicely designed. Rich selection of food and drinks. Nobody will starve here. Nice and fast staff.

Nice location, but the food, which is freshly prepared, arrives cold and suits my taste. The dessert and the warm dishes taste good. Drinks cost extra and are overpriced.

The food is good. Drinks are overpriced, double or more - compared with similar restaurants. Tables quite close together. Table repartition is strange. We were given the smallest table for three chairs (normally that was meant for two chairs). No place to put the plates on the small table. Although it was the end of the program, and many bigger tables were empty and not occupied from our arrival to the closing time. Also plenty of waiting time for a table, while many tables were not occupied. Maybe it was just a "bad day" for them. If we return and things will be different, I will update the review

A very solid buffet restaurant with a good and large selection. The lunch menu isn't too expensive either. The service was friendly and quick to clear away the empty plates. Easy to reach thanks to its location on Bottroper Straße and the business park. There is a sufficiently large parking lot for cars. If you want to travel by public transport, you have to walk a bit.

The store is very big and of course the operator can't do anything about the background noise, but that was still a drawback that was very annoying. Otherwise it was really great, the food was delicious, the staff was super friendly and the gentleman at reception even came to the table and asked if everything was OK. All this despite the fact that there were three of us there on Boxing Day. Top staff, keep it up✊🏽

As a skeptical buffet restaurant customer, I have to say clearly that for me XIAO stands out from other restaurants in a positive way. Of course, there are still some general points of criticism about the buffet food (not always very hot and fresh). But overall, a lot of emphasis is placed on high-quality ingredients here. Salmon, seafood and unusual types of meat, oriental salads and good sushi are also included, as is a hot cook station where you can select raw ingredients and have them fried. The dishes are very authentically spicy, even though glutamate is not used. And after the current price reduction in 2025, I also think the price-performance ratio is very good (from €15 for the buffet), as you can hardly get a menu for the same money, even in a fast-food burger restaurant.

Super delicious buffet food with dessert, everything was great. Friendly staff.

Very nice restaurant at a very reasonable price. The service is very friendly and the food is very tasty. Unfortunately the fresh food was so fresh that it was all still frozen. Sometimes you had to pick at the ice to get to the squid.