Haidilao

Excellent selection in sauce bar, desserts, and snacks for those waiting outside. Our server was friendly and attentive. Every detail was considered, from aprons to hair ties to toothbrushes and combs in the restroom. Our server packaged our leftovers and even gave us snacks while going away. I would come again, thank you HDL for a great experience.

Updating my original review, I've come 4 or 5 times now. While hotpot is practically designed for sharing, I enjoy coming solo after a long day at work or after the gym, and just pigging out by myself. It's a tad bit pricey that way, but I honestly have not had a more enjoyable restaurant experience by myself than at Haidilao hotpot. I find you get what you pay for here in every regard. Each time coming here has been great. Their waitress, Mango, helped me my first time as she explained how everything operates. I've had Kelvin as my server a few times now as well, and he is also an excellent member of their staff. He's very attentive and quick, and he makes sure everything you ordered arrived properly. The flavors of food here are exceptional and some are rare for a commonAmerican like me, but I I love culinary adventures and eating here never lets me down. The spicy soup bases are a go-to since they are loaded with Sichuan pepper. The mushroom soup and tom-yam soups are also amazing. I haven't tried the pork bone soups yet but they look great. Haidilao pulls out all the stops, and they offer some very high end cuts of meat if you're willing to pay for them. I do believe you get what you pay for in regard to meat quality, so it would be fun to grab some high end cuts someday if I'm celebrating something or having a party. Otherwise, the budget items they have are still delicious. In addition to their exquisite meat selection, Haidilao also boasts an impressive array of alcoholic beverages. Their selection is as diverse and potentially as pricey as their meats, catering to varied tastes. From exclusive Chinese liquor at thousands of dollars per bottle to affordable hot sake or beer, their offerings complement the dining experience perfectly, especially on those special occasions. Regarding special occasions, for large parties it's good to book ahead. They can get extremely busy around weekends and holidays as this is one of the most popular hotpot locations in South OC. To sum it up, dining at Haidilao is an exhilarating experience that borders on euphoria, akin to reaching a high without the need for any substances, save Sichuan peppers. The combination of vibrant flavors, exceptional service, and the sheer joy of indulging in their luxurious offerings makes each visit an adventure in culinary delight. It's not just a meal; it's an event that tantalizes the senses and leaves you yearning for more every time.

Haidilao at IRVINE is an exceptional dining experience that I highly recommend. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you are greeted with warm hospitality and impeccable service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that your dining experience is enjoyable and memorable. The selection of ingredients for the hot pot is extensive and of high quality. From a variety of fresh vegetables to premium meats and seafood, there is something for everyone. The broth options are also diverse, ranging from mild and comforting to spicy and flavorful. What sets Hot Pot Haidilao apart is their attention to detail. Each table is equipped with a personal hot pot and a wide array of condiments and sauces to customize your own dipping sauce. The staff is always available to assist with any cooking or ingredient recommendations, ensuring that you have the best hot pot experience possible. The atmosphere in the restaurant is lively and vibrant, making it a great place to gather with friends and family. The spacious seating arrangements and comfortable seating add to the overall dining experience. Overall, Hot Pot Haidilao is a must-visit for hot pot lovers. The combination of excellent service, high-quality ingredients, and a pleasant atmosphere make it a top choice for a delicious and enjoyable meal.

My first time here with my brother and my son. Emily was our server. She was amazing. She took the time to explain to us how everything worked. Her recommendations were on point! She made sure we were taken care of. She went above and beyond. I truly enjoyed the food and the entire experience. I definitely recommend this place.

Great hot pot place. The restaurant was nice and clean. Our waitress was great. She created a couple customized dipping sauces for us. This was not the cheapest place but the quality of meats and vegetables made it worth the extra cost. Although there are some combination options, everything else is a la carte which can add up fast.