Jazz Cat Restaurant — Restaurant in City of Industry

I've heard about this location from friends, but never actually made my way over until I met my boyfriend. I was craving hot pot pretty bad, so he suggested trying this place out. We arrived a little early for dinner, but we were met with an hour wait anyway, so definitely take that into consideration if you plan to dine here, haha.

Although boyfriend shared a few suggestions for his favorites, I was still overwhelmed by the choices ahead of me for broth, protein and sauces. I ended up going with the sukiyaki broth with ribeye for protein. Even with the additions of vegetables and beef, the broth itself was a little too salty for my preferences. I left thinking, let's not get that one again.

On my second visit, I chose to try the spicy miso broth. When I think of spicy miso, I thought it would have been comparable to that of Japanese heat level where you get the chili flavor but mild heat. Sadly, I was in for a surprise! The broth was a rich red color with chili flakes floating in broth and the heat continued to build with each bite. Luckily I can handle heat, but it was just a little unexpected.

Came back again and hoped that within the third visit, I would find its charm. I decided to try their milk/cream based broths, such as the creamy milk & corn. Life changing and I finally understood the appeal! The broth was very balanced with a hint of sweetness from the kernels of corn.

Since then, I've essentially stuck with their milky bases and they have not failed me. Unfortunately, I haven't been back in awhile, but at least I found me a favorite when I went. Just beware, expect a long wait and good luck...

Love the decor, hate the seating! A table for four can be quite claustrophobic! The table is more meant for a table for two than four, have a seat and you'll know what I mean!

The menu is quite simple and they have great choices if you like Shabu Shabu or Hot Pot. You have your standard meal set, but you can also order additional meat or veggies on the sides. For those not familiar with Shabu Shabu/Hot Pot, it's the type of meal where the veggies and meat comes uncooked and a pot of broth. You simply put in your veggies and meat one piece at a time and let it cook. These types of restaurant usually offers dipping sauces for the meat and veggies, I recommend the Sate Sesame.

They have a lot and I mean A LOT of soup base to choose from, but my favorite is the original (pork broth soup; simple and light). If you like spicy, Taiwanese spicy is popular among my friends. Jazz Cat Special is also popular, but that's only if you like Shrimp Soup.

At dinner, you can choose their regular or T-Rex box set. T-Rex comes with more meat and regular comes with more veggies; both are similar in price.

If you are going to order any drinks, get their Hokkaido Milk Tea! Its sooo good and if you're a fan of any milk tea, get it! This place is a great place to come on a cold night, plus they open late! PS, they serve...

I've only been to a couple of Chinese hot pot places, and I must say I was pretty impressed with this place. The restaurant is spacious and clean, with a pleasant ambiance. The jazz cat theme is a little strange, but hey, I'm going with it. Came here with some friends after a day of skiing and I was ready to mow. Their menu can be a little overwhelming at first, but luckily my friends were pros at this place so were able to steer me in the right direction. I got the rib eye T-Rex style (more meat, less veggies) with side of seafood (shrimp and fish). I opted for their spicy pork bone broth with satay sauce.

In short order our broths, meats and veggies were delivered and we were ready to dine. It took a little bit for the broth to come up to temperature, but once it does the meat/seafood cooks very quickly so be sure not to let them languish in there. I know I was super-hungry, but everything tasted totally awesome! I love being able to cook my meats just the way I like it, which is to say, not too done. My friend's helpful tip to put some extra soy sauce and vinegar into my satay sauce was right on; it really helped to bring the flavors out. I had no problems finishing all of my food, and I was pleasantly full (not overly stuffed) when done. I really enjoyed my meal here and hope...