Tabu Shabu Bressi Ranch — Restaurant in Carlsbad

I can’t consciously give this more than 3 stars. Let's start this off by stating that this "Shabu" thing is not for me . . . or my wife. Too much work. Why would I again pay so much for a lunch meal for two that I essentially do all of the work (~$91, no cocktails, tip included)? Most everything on the menu was an up-charge.

I guess traditionally, Japanese food is careful to artfully plate for presentation. Well done Tabu. However, my customer experience guided me to accept only mediocrity in its most blatant form on all other touch-points.

The quality of the food was decent, but seemed to rely solely on fresh, yet somewhat lacking the ‘good’. The broths were sloppily mixed directly in front of us, poured haphazardly into the Shabu pot and placed on an induction burner at each bar station. That just began the process of placing everything and then more on the already crowded place setting. I had to get creative with placement, because having something in the wrong spot could mean the difference between eating or wearing the item. Too much crowding of the utensils, tongs, ladle, water glass, ice tea, plate of protein, plate of vegetables etc. etc. etc.

The front seats just inside the door seem to be where all of the “newbies” sit since it’s most convenient after the owner/manager would say “sit wherever “. I began to think I was sitting in the wrong restaurant. Kinda disgusting seeing the ventilation system overhead has allowed the steaming pots of broth to begin corroding the fixtures.

I kept feeling as if I was doing something wrong or was otherwise incorrectly doing the "Shabu" thing. The way the roundabout construction of the winding 'bar' is set up, I kept catching momentary eye contact with multiple people that were observing me flail the mess into my mouth . . . or the counter area and induction cooktop. I didn't find any way of not making a mess.

Maybe this is the latest craze for healthy dining, but I think I can find a more suitable way of spending my lunch...

1st timer here!

I read through the bad reviews and happy to share some advice. As far as wait time, it’s to be expected for this type of dining. I went in with the expectation of waiting, just check in and they will text when ready. As far as the quality, everything tasted fresh!! You get a full plate of veggies with tons of oils, sauces, and spice to add to your broth. Make sure to ask questions about the broth, some are simple so that you can add your preferred flavors. It seems like this isn’t a typical traditional hot pot set up and I’m totally okay with it. I actually enjoyed having my own pot and I was able to eat the entire thing.

Paid a little more for the premium meat, ribeye and short rib… I regret NOTHING! I guess I’m only sad that I didn’t have more of their pumpkin slices - pairs so well...

I've eaten at many Shabu places and Tabu Shabu didn't appeal to my taste buds at all. What makes a great Shabu is the combination of meat, sauces and the soup base. Although the meat was fine, the pork bone soup base was extremely salty. Worst parts are the ponzu which was vinegary, and instead of a sauce, the sesame was a paste that was grainy. From the very first bite, I was not happy. Tabu was also the most expensive Shabu place I've ever been to and based on other ratings, was very excited to try it. Unfortunately, it didn't even come close to my expectations. I thought maybe it was just me, so I asked my wife how she liked it and she too said it was very salty. Definitely not a place I...