I’ve done this, I just tried to get a table as close to buffet as possible so I could see him. Put him in highchair with a book or toy and got food as quickly as possible! I usually grabbed something like a roll or fruit first too so he had that to eat whilst he was waiting x
I carried her and did her plate then went back still carrying her and did mine. No chance she would’ve stayed in the highchair without me there x
I typically do toddler on one hip. Plate on the tray and grab the food with one hand. Not my favorite way to eat but doable. I've also done toddler in the stroller while rolling through the buffet. Easier on me but toddler doesn't always want to sit in the stroller.
Could you pop him in his buggy to prevent him trying to grab? It might be hard to push the buggy and plate food but I feel this would be the safest option xx