4 /5 Yenlik (Enlik): Disappointing Experience at Haidilao Hot Pot*
My friends and I recently took our kids to try a new place Haidilao Hot Pot and, unfortunately, it didnt live up to expectations. We made reservations and the atmosphere was lively, service was great, but thats where the positives end.
We ordered both spicy and non-spicy broth, but the spicy one was a huge mistake. I specifically asked for zero numbness, but it still packed a ton of heat. Our server was super kind and tried to help by pouring water and additional broth to tone it down, but it was still way too spicy for us. Whats weird is, Im a spicy food lover and can usually handle some heat, but this was just too much. My tongue was numbed, and it wasnt just the initial burn - it lingered.
The kids Tom Yum broth was good, though - spicy level three was perfect for them. The white broth or non-spicy broth seems like a better bet.
On the bright side, our server was great and tried to make it work. And, bonus, they threw in free ice cream, which was a nice touch after the spicy chaos.
The real flavor savior was the sauce and salad bar ($3.99 per person, FYI), where I made a killer sauce that actually made the meal enjoyable.
Overall, Im disappointed. For the price, Id rather go to a hot pot place in Chinatown or a dollar shop - you get more bang for your buck. Maybe Ill try them again if they fix the spicy broth issue...




