Hotpot Hotspot

It’s that lovely time of year again, when hotpot is actually weather-appropriate. And to help you navigate the myriad of choices around town, we’ve checked out some of the top places for a winter feast, each with its own distinct and delicious twist on the classic meal.

All You Can Eat, Baby

Though not even half a year old and situated in the somewhat awkward location of Hung Hom, Kowloon Club’s Bistro on The Bund has become quite a popular spot, with its family-friendly, casual atmosphere and diverse “international” culinary offerings. But as much as we enjoy the restaurant’s à la carte choices, Bistro on the Bund’s secret weapon has got to be their hotpot buffet. Guests are each given an individual mini pot to make the experience as hygienic and convenient as possible. As for the actual food selection, you’ll be in excellent hands here. The all-you-can-eat spread features a wide selection of super-fresh, quality ingredients, with the seafood items being the main stars of the show. Eat your unlimited fill of fresh prawns, oysters and scallops before moving onto their premium meat selection. The $268 hotpot buffet ($118 for children) also includes unlimited dibs at the appetizers and desserts station. And until the end of December, go for the hotpot buffet and receive a complimentary, four teal hairy crab on the house. Bistro on The Bund, Harbourfront Horizon, 8 Hung Luen Rd., Hung Hom, 2269-7828.

Shanghai Style

For those who don’t particularly want to get up again and again for the self-serve buffet at Bistro on the Bund, walk just a few doors down to the Shanghai Dream restaurant to try their promotional Shanghainese hotpot meal. Their large pot ($480) is hearty enough to serve four to six hungry people, and is chock-full of luxurious ingredients such as sea cucumber, fish maw and salted fatty pork in a bubbling chicken broth. A definite stomach-warmer for the winter months ahead. Shanghai Dream, Harbourfront Horizon, 8 Hung Luen Rd., Hung Hom, 2269-7888.

New Kid on the Block

Tai Hang has become Hong Kong’s new hipster hangout, and this year has seen a slew of restaurants opening in the area, catering especially to young and adventurous diners. Among the sea of eateries is Chao’s Hotpot, whose main selling point is their Chiu Chow (a.k.a. Teochew) style hotpot. The owner is of Teochew heritage and the shop offers soup bases flavored with the region’s popular herbs for an authentic Chiu Chow flavor. Other great choices, such as a deliciously tangy fresh tomato and seafood soup, are also on the menu. The restaurant prides itself on using only top-notch, quality ingredients, serving prime Black Angus beef, lamb chops imported from New Zealand, and their must-try handmade meatballs and fishballs. It’s also worth mentioning that the food at Chao’s Hotpot is completely MSG-free. And with the mini mortar and pestle there for you to mix your own hotpot dips from the 15 different condiments on offer—including the Chiu Chow staple, schacha sauce—who needs food additives? Chao’s Hotpot, 22 Shepherd St., Tai Hang, 2890-9308.