A Seriously Underrated Hot Pot Spot in Midtown NYC 🍲

After two hours of tennis and an hour of biking in Central Park, I was starving — so I headed to Mala Hotpot in Midtown. I’ve been here a few times now, and it never disappoints. The decor is understated and cool‑toned, so it doesn’t scream for attention — which is probably why I overlooked it at first. But once I tried it, I was hooked! Their spicy red oil broth is rich and flavorful, and the sauce station is fully stocked. Mixing garlic, oyster sauce, scallions, and sesame into a sesame oil dip makes every bite of meat utterly delicious without overwhelming heat. Their thin‑sliced beef is fresh and clearly cut to order. I also highly recommend the duck blood and beef tongue — hot pot essentials for me! The fried egg 🍳 was a revelation — I don’t eat luosifen, so this was my first time trying it, and wow — soaking up that savory bone broth with a slightly chewy texture was heavenly! 😍 The menu is extensive, with options like goose intestine, duck feet, duck tongue, and even pork brain and small boiled fish — something for every hot pot lover. We ended with an adorable bear‑shaped dessert and soy milk ice cream 🍦 — a sweet, refreshing finish. 📍 Address: 35 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018 If you’re in Midtown craving authentic, customizable hot pot with a full range of ingredients, Mala Hotpot is a quiet gem worth discovering. #NYCFood #HotPot #MalaHotpot #MidtownEats #SpicyFood #NYCRestaurants #ComfortFood #NYCEats #ChineseHotPot #FoodieFind #NYCLife #EatLikeLocal #HiddenGem #HotPotLovers