They were also low-cost at $1 and conveniently available 24/7. In 1941, when Las Vegas was still a sleepy town in the desert, El Rancho Vegas pioneered the concept of “chuck wagon” which evolved into the “all-you-can-eat” buffets.Īt the time, buffets were quite basic with salads, coleslaw, sandwiches and cheap steaks offered. Did you know, all-you-can-eat-buffets are a huge deal in Las Vegas?