There’s something delightfully communal about a bubbling pot of broth at the centre of the table, a medley of meats, vegetables, and noodles waiting to take the plunge. Welcome to the hot pot world, a feast that warms the belly and the soul, rooted in centuries-old traditions yet perfectly suited to London’s vibrant, multicultural dining scene.
Hot pot’s origins trace back over a thousand years to the chilly winters of Northern China, with the first form appearing in the Shang and Zhou dynasties, and every broth tells a story. So, grab your chopsticks and prepare to dip, swirl, and eat your way through London’s hot pot restaurants.
Hot Pot In London
Haidilao Hot Pot
Founded in 1994, Haidilao Hot Pot is a popular eatery hailing from Jianyang City, Sichuan Province, China, with two locations in Piccadilly and The O2. Known for its exceptional service and premium ingredients, it lets diners customise every aspect of their meal, from broths to sauces.
Whether you choose the fiery mala, the comforting tomato, or the earthy mushroom broth, the variety ensures there’s something for every palate. The menu boasts top-quality options like wagyu beef, fresh seafood, and an array of vegetables, paired with a sauce bar that invites endless flavour experimentation.
Heading to a gig at The O2? Fuel up prior at Haidilao Hot Pot in London.
Sichuan Folk
Wander down Brick Lane and you might happen upon this gem of a restaurant that, among a flurry of curry houses beckoning you in, is not to be missed. Sichuan Folk is the perfect place for anyone craving authentic Chinese dishes with a spicy kick. The menu is filled with mouthwatering options like ma po tofu, rich and spicy with silky tofu swimming in a fragrant, chilli-laden sauce, but the main star of the show is the Sichuan hot pot, where you can dip your choice of meat, seafood, and vegetables into a bubbling, spicy broth.
The interiors reflect the restaurant's lively, warm, and welcoming atmosphere, with a mix of contemporary design and traditional Chinese elements. Think wooden tables, sleek modern lighting, and pops of red that give it an energetic vibe perfect for groups or a meal for two.
This restaurant whips up dishes that are truly broth-taking.
Happy Lamb
Happy Lamb is a sizzling sensation with multiple locations across the world, including in bustling London spots Holborn and Bayswater. It was founded with a deep passion for sharing the vibrant culinary traditions of Mongolia and came from Boston, where a group of food enthusiasts aimed to create a dining experience that was both authentic and accessible.
The interiors are lively and modern, featuring a sleek, minimalist design with wooden accents and large communal tables that create a warm, social vibe. And on the menu? Think spicy marrow chicken broths or ones made with pickled cabbage with your choice of meat and vegetables, such as Aberdeen Angus ribeye, quail eggs and even duck blood if you're feeling daring.
The best hot pot London has to offer? We think it could be Happy Lamb.
Hotto Potto
Hotto Potto, led by Chef Zhang XiaoZhong, serves up a fun, interactive London hot pot experience, where fresh ingredients and rich broths take centre stage. Choose from bases like the spicy beef tallow or the lamb spine, packed with bold flavours. A wide variety of ingredients awaits, from succulent cuts of beef to melt-in-your-mouth enoki mushroom beef rolls or Iberico pork.
Dine among cosy and contemporary interiors, featuring wooden tables and soft, peach-coloured neon lighting. The open kitchen allows diners to enjoy the sights and sounds of their meal being prepared, adding a dynamic, engaging element to the dining experience.
Things are heating up at this aesthetically pleasing eatery.
Shu Xiangge
The best hot pot in London's Chinatown is Shu Xiangge, which draws inspiration from the rich tradition of Sichuan hot pot, a culinary style that originated in Luzhou in the 1820s. As London’s first authentic eatery of its kind, it's dedicated to preserving and celebrating the deep-rooted heritage of traditional Chinese food culture.
You can enjoy a choice of moreish broths and an array of ingredients such as premium cuts of beef, succulent lamb, and fresh seafood (think squid tentacles and baby octopus). For those who love a fiery kick, the beef fat red oil pot is a must-try, and you can also devour house specials such as pig's blood pudding or handmade prawn balls.
For a Chinese hot pot in London, this is the ideal place to visit with friends.
Muyang
Muyang, named after the Chinese word for shepherd (牧羊人), proudly holds the title of the first Chinese eatery in the capital to introduce the authentic mini hot pot. The restaurant focuses on using the freshest local ingredients and premium materials to ensure every dish delivers an unforgettable, pure taste experience.
Naturally, the star of the menu is the mini hot pot, a traditional palace-style hot pot that comes with a nourishing broth. Guests can choose from an optional Mandarin duck pot base, offering a unique blend of flavours, and enjoy a selection of top-quality British beef, tender mutton, and fresh seafood, all carefully chosen to enhance the dining experience.
Looking for a cheap hot pot in London? Create your own dry version with ingredients starting from £1.99.
Crystal China
Venture over to Tower Bridge for Crystal China, a restaurant that claims to be the first and best dry hot pot in the capital. Known for its fresh ingredients and healthy options, it offers everything from its scrumptious signature pots to street food favourites that make every meal an adventure (especially if you order the special cooked pig's liver).
The welcoming atmosphere is perfect for sharing with family or friends, so bring them down, choose your meat (like chicken or even frog leg) and get slurping. To accompany? A glass of wine from its refined collection.
Head to Crystal China for a soup-er experience.
Tian Fu
Tian Fu, tucked away in Shepherd’s Bush, is the spot for anyone craving bold, authentic plates that pack a punch. Led by the legendary Chef Zhang XiaoZhong, a third-generation chef trained in the heart of Sichuan, this place is a true labour of love and tradition.
The menu bursts with mouthwatering dishes - each one perfected by years of expertise. Choose any six ingredients for £29.80 to make up your hot pot, including pig's kidney, Chinese mushrooms and fish balls. The vibe? Cosy yet stylish, where every meal feels like an adventure. So, whether you're a spice lover or just hungry for something new, head to this Bulwer Street spot.
Dip into deliciousness and inhale some meaty toppings.
Hungry? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Chinatown.
