So I'm sure you are now well-versed with the build-your-own-hot-pot joints that are popping up all over North America. The trend started in Australia and now you can find these places in most major cities. Back home in Vancouver, we have Big Way Hot Pot as well as some copy cats (mind you Big Way is a copy cat too), but since we were in the Bay Area, the place to be is Malatown. As its name suggests, they do have spicy Mala broth (Szechuan) as well as many other choices.
We made 2 trips to 2 different Malatown locations including Union City and Milpitas. The picture of the front and the self-serve areas are from the Milpitas location. For me, I think the older Union City location is more cramped (even though they seem the same size) and this time around, didn't have the broth options that the Milpitas store had. The parking situation seem to be roughly the same with Milpitas having possibly a few more spots available.
Before I discuss the broth options, there is a trick to keep the cost down since they weigh the items that you choose. Try to stay away from wet things like many of the meatballs, things with shells, tofu and udon. Thinly sliced meats, leafy greens and dried noodles are the lightest options. Being the most popular choice, the Beef Bone Broth Base is mild, meaty and great for those who do not want spicy or anything too strong. Perfect for adding your favourite meats and noodles. There is a good salt level to the broth too.
Their 3rd most popular broth is the Chicken Broth Base. It is just as mild as the beef, yet has more sweetness and is super clean. Definitely can taste the chicken in there and goes really well with any noodles you choose. If you enjoy having seafood in your hot pot, this is probably the broth to go for as it doesn't overwhelm anything and the sweetness from the seafood is able to stand out. Veggies go well with this too as it impact the natural flavours.
One of my personal favorites is the Tomato Flavored Broth, which happens to be their vegan option. Interestingly, the one at Union City is much more impactful, tangy and full-flavored than the one we had at Milpitas. However, it might have to do with the fact we visited Union City at dinner and Milpitas for lunch. It might've been reduced by the time we at at Union City. This broth goes well with anything really and provides plenty of tangy sweetness where you would not need any sauces.
One of exclusive broths that we can only find in Milpitas is the Sukiyaki Nabe. This has all of the great things about Sukiyaki including sweetness and saltiness. Hence, adding sliced beef or pork with noodles and some veggies is the way to emulate a true Sukiyaki experience. In the picture, you can see that this was the case here with only some fish tofu and quail eggs to compliment. Yep, this would be my son's hot pot as he enjoys Sukiyaki!
Another exclusive broth to Milpitas is the Chicken & Fish Maw Broth. Not sure how much fish maw they used, but you do get some silkiness and aromatics from the broth. In addition, you get all of the good things in the chicken broth as well. So good for seafood and any noodle you choose. In the end, both locations of Malatown do the job and is satisfying. Pricing is fair and if you are smart with your choices, it can be downright cheap. Just beware it gets busy, so go early or get on the waitlist.
The Good:
- Tasty broths (especially so in Union City)
- Can be inexpensive (if you are smart)
- Fresh ingredients
The Bad:
- Can be expensive if you are not careful with your choices
- Super busy
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