Which Boston family's spicy hot pot is frog, crispy, turtle and squid?

🌶️ Mala Town: Allston’s Game-Changing “Mala Tang” Spot—Crunchy Fish, Explosive Meatballs, and So Much More At $14.99 a pound, this new Allston spot isn’t just another mala tang joint—it’s a 麻辣烫 revolution. Think: crispy fish, popping meatballs, and even roast meats that somehow pair perfectly with spicy broth. It’s gunning for not just mala tang glory, but hot pot and roast meat territory too—and honestly? It’s succeeding. 🌟 The Unexpected Stars (Beyond Basic Mala) Crispy Fish Slices 🐟 A game-changer. This isn’t your average flaky fish—its texture is firm, slightly crunchy, and holds up beautifully in broth. It adds a fun, chewy bite that elevates the whole bowl. Explosive Beef Balls 🥩 Juicy, tender, and filled with broth—bite carefully, or you’ll get a hot, savory splash. They’re seasoned like classic Chinese beef balls, rich and meaty. Seafood & Extras 🦑 Three kinds of squid (cuttlefish, tentacles, rings)—perfect in the tom yum broth. Plus, tea tree mushrooms add an earthy depth you don’t find at basic mala spots. Roast Meats 🍖 Who knew roast pork or char siu would work in mala tang? The sweet-savory meat cuts through the spice—genius. 🍲 The Broths: No Shortcuts Tomato 🍅 Tastes like homemade: bright, tangy, with real tomato depth (no “packet” vibes here). No eggs, just pure tomato goodness. Tom Yum 🍋 Authentically zesty: sour, spicy, and loaded with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and that signature tom yum kick. Pair it with seafood for a Thai street food vibe. Classic Bone Broth (Medium Spicy) 🌶️ Perfect for “spice cowards who want to play.” It’s numbing, spicy, and satisfying—just enough heat to make you sweat a little, but not enough to require a gallon of water. 🔥 The Sauces: Worth the Hype Sesame Paste 🥜 Rich, creamy, and seasoned with fermented tofu—adds a salty, umami punch. We even packed extra to use at home. Chili Oil 🌶️ Fragrant, crispy, made with fried chili flakes (smells like the good stuff from China). Douse your bowl if you can handle the heat—this is the real deal. 💰 Value & Vibe Price: $14.99/lb—fair for the quality (those beef balls and crispy fish are premium!). Atmosphere: Casual, quick, perfect for solo meals or takeout. Friday nights get busy, so order ahead. Mala Town isn’t just redefining mala tang in Boston—it’s setting a new bar. With unexpected ingredients, killer broths, and sauces that taste like home, it’s no wonder we’ve been twice in a week. 📍 Mala Town Allston location (exact address worth hunting down—trust us). #AllstonEats #BostonMala #SpicyFoodLovers