MO-MO-PARADISE Shibuya Koendori — Restaurant in Tokyo

Foreigner friendly, with English menus and English-speaking waitstaff. All the staff were so kind, but a special shoutout to Shota for being the best host we could have asked for.

We were in the area looking for somewhere that would do sukiyaki and stumbled upon Nabezo. There were no reservations available, but we arrived just before opening time and were able to get a table once 5PM hit.

We opted to get the beef and pork set, which allows you access to unlimited beef belly and shoulder, and pork belly and shoulder, for 90 minutes of dining. We also opted for a split pot so we could do both shabu shabu and sukiyaki. Sukiyaki comes with raw eggs that you crack into a bowl and whisk for dipping.

Shota graciously taught us how to cook our veggies and meat properly for sukiyaki, and also instructed us that noodles are typically saved for cooking at the end of the meal. He was super patient with instructing us even while overseeing multiple tables, calmly demonstrating and making sure that our broth pitchers were full and plates were continuously cleared. The meat quality was incredible, and we also enjoyed the wide array of veggies available for the pot. We went with the soda machine only drink option, which still included a nice variety of choices including iced matcha and tea. Ice cream is also included, if you have the stomach space to include it after, and quite tasty for a buffet.

The whole dining area was kept quite clean by the numerous staff, and restroom also was kept in good condition. You even get a cover for your bags and a bib to wear to keep yourself presentable and bags from smelling like meat. The only qualm I have is the cords that are needed for the stoves at each table, which run across the ground and can be somewhat of a tripping hazard when getting up for rounds of food.

We felt all in all that the price was very reasonable for the quality and selection of food, as well as service. Not somewhere you will see many locals, but definitely recommend if in the area as a tourist and want to experience Japanese...

In Shibuya, at the center, we recently had the pleasure of experiencing a culinary journey that delved into the flavorful worlds of Sukiyaki and Shabu Shabu at "Nabezo Shibuya Koendori" on November 22, 2023. As a fan of Japanese cuisine, I embarked on an enjoyable adventure through these two iconic dining experiences, each with its own unique charms and flavors.

Sukiyaki, a celebration of simmering richness, surprised us. It was served in a pot with two different soup bases. The beef, thin and perfectly marbled, mingled harmoniously with a variety of fresh vegetables and tofu, all soaked in a delicious sweet and savory soy-based broth.

The atmosphere of Nabezo Shibuya Koendori was a vital part of the experience, creating a setting for an immersive journey into Japanese culinary traditions. The cozy and friendly environment, along with attentive service, enhanced the overall enjoyment of the meal.

Although Sukiyaki and Shabu Shabu have their own unique qualities, they both unite people in a communal dining experience, fostering conversation and shared enjoyment of outstanding food.

To sum up, if you're looking for the comforting embrace of a rich Sukiyaki or the interactive delight of Shabu Shabu, Nabezo Shibuya Koendori offers a wonderful haven for those aiming to savor authentic Japanese cuisine. Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing exploration of these timeless traditions—a feast that satisfies both the palate and the spirit.

Enjoy your meal, or as they say in Japanese, いただきます...

We made a reservation earlier in the afternoon when we went to Shibuya before we do our shopping there. Dinner reservation was made for 5pm later (it was a Thursday, May 2023).

Menu is available in English and most of the staff can understand English or speak very basic English. Seats are spacious. There was a queue at 5pm but everyone quickly got in.

The two of us ordered the Special Course (5500yen per person after tax) with two soups - Shabu shabu and Kimchi. The Japanese beef, beef tongue and Japanese pork are very nice. We mainly eat the Japanese beef and put in lots of green vegetables in our hot pot. Drink selection is good and we didn't go for the All You Can Drink Alcohol. There is a lot of food to eat and the ice creams are really good (black sesame, milk, mango sorbet and strawberry). Sauces selection are very good too.

Do note that the 100 minute starts the moment you sit down. They will ask if it is your first time and if yes, they will ask you to scan a QR code to watch a tutorial on how to order and how to eat hot pot. But being Malaysian and familiar with eating hot pot, I told the waiter we understood so we skipped the tutorial. So don't waste your time watching the video if you can.

All in all, 100 minutes definitely flew by quickly. It was a nice and satisfactory...