Nestled near the vibrant laneways of Lan Kwai Fong, the perennially packed queues outside Big JJ Seafood Hotpot bear witness to its cult status among hot pot aficionados. Known for its commitment to quality, Big JJ sources the finest ingredients, including plates of locally sourced yellow beef, freshly slaughtered on the day to ensure optimum freshness and flavour. But it’s not just about the food; it’s an immersive cultural experience, with nostalgic Cantopop melodies filling the air, prompting spontaneous sing-alongs from delighted patrons. A self-proclaimed “wine bar with average hot pot food” on Instagram, Big JJ wears its irreverent attitude proudly. Yet, for those in the know, this unassuming hotspot is anything but average, offering a uniquely Hong Kong dining experience that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious.

Big JJ Seafood Hotpot
Address: G/F, 9 Wo On Lane, Central, Hong Kong

In case you missed it: Big JJ Seafood Hotpot debuts at BaseHall 02 with new brand JJ’s

Liu’s Chong Qing Hot Pot, a renowned chain hailing from the heart of Chongqing, specializes in the bold flavours of Sichuan-style hot pot. With an expansive presence boasting over 500 locations worldwide, spice reigns supreme at Liu’s. While their repertoire of hot pot broths may be modest in number, it’s their signature mala spicy soup that steals the show—a fiery concoction crafted from beef tallow and an abundance of chillies. Complementing this fiery broth are a variety of hot pot add-ins, ranging from the customary sliced meats and crisp vegetables to more adventurous offerings like tripe, pig hearts, pig blood, and intestines, all well-suited for the intense spice of Liu’s creations.

Liu’s Chong Qing Hot Pot 
Address: Shop UG-37, UG/F, Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong (among other locations)

Nestled within the unassuming confines of a modest building in Wan Chai, Megan’s Kitchen beckons diners into a realm where traditional meets innovative hot pot. Here, an array of tantalising options are available, from a tomato and crab soup with a soufflé finish to a funky tom yum cappuccino and an indulgent fresh lobster borscht soup. Other than the inventive broths, the restaurant’s selection of premium seafood, vegetables and meats also add to a great hot pot experience.

Megan’s Kitchen
Address: 5/F, Lucky Centre, 165-171 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Wu Lao, a popular hot pot brand hailing from Taiwan, brings a twist to the hot pot experience. Here, the focus extends beyond traditional flavours, offering diners a range of supposedly healthier options, including collagen and ginseng chicken, alongside the more typical hot and spicy selections. At the heart of Wu Lao’s appeal lies its signature white soup, simmered to perfection with a blend of chicken and pork bones, delivering a comforting richness that satisfies the soul. For those seeking a bolder flavour profile, the spicy soup, infused with an array of Chinese herbals, is also available.

Wu Lao
Address: 5/F, V Point, 18 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay; Shop 703, 7/F, H Zentre, 15 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Located in Lai Chi Kok, the Annex, a sub-line of Greater China Club, boasts a curated selection of eight distinctive broths. From the opulent Buddha Temptation with abalone and fish maw to the robust Angus beef satay soup, each offers an indulgent hot pot experience. With premium ingredients sourced locally and internationally, including beef and seafood flown in from Canada, Australia, Alaska, and Scotland, guests can expect a quality food experience at the Greater China Club Annex. 

Greater China Club Annex
Address: Shop A1, 10/F, D2 Place ONE, 9 Cheung Yee Street, Lai Chi Kok, Hong Kong

Cloud Nine offers a tempting departure from the traditional hot pot experience. Helmed by the same team behind Sheung Wan’s Southeast Asian noodle bar, Mean Noodles, Cloud Nine brings a taste of Southeast Asia to the hot pot scene. Think Nyonya laksa, Malaysian bak kut teh, Thai tom yum and Vietnamese beef bone stock soup bases. Complementing these aromatic broths are regional delicacies like red curry fish balls, belacan shrimp balls, and Padang beef dumplings, offering a symphony of Southeast Asian flavours to accompany the usual seafood and meats. 

Cloud Nine 
Address: G/F, King Inn Mansion, 13-15 Yik Yam Street, Happy Valley; 2/F, Berkshire House, Tai Koo Place, 25 Westlands Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong

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