Buffets are a great way to try something you might not normally try. Just remember, everything in moderation. I prefer something with quality over quantity, as some of these cheap places don't treat the food with much integrity.

My introduction to Indian food was via buffet, as I was afraid to explore it previously. I was able to find out the items I did and didn't like, so that when I went out with friends for Indian food, I had a better idea of what the food was. Many ethnic restaurants will have a Lunch Buffet, which will let you do just this.

One of my top picks for Ethnic Buffet close to home (Los Angeles) is here:
http://wahibmiddleeast.com