SHABU GEN — Restaurant in Elk Grove

Came here post-gym with the swole squad, still dripping in sweat and protein cravings. Let me tell you, Shabu Gen is the spot if you're looking to hit PRs in both deadlifts and dinner plates.

In this economy, $20 might get you a sad combo meal and a side of financial regret. But at Shabu Gen? It buys you an AYCE meat fest that would make even a caveman say “bro, chill.” We’re talking endless trays of beef, pork, and chicken, all ready to boil in your bubbling pot of post-workout dreams.

I’ve been here twice. First round I tried the “spicy miso,” which was about as spicy as a glass of milk at a toddler’s birthday party. This time I went with the tonkotsu broth; decent flavor, but still gentler than my grandma’s hugs. Not complaining though. It’s like the meat wants you to season it with your own sweat and gym tears.

You order meats and apps straight from your server, who, shoutout to them, is always quick and on point. There’s also a buffet bar with all the essentials: fruits, veggies, fish balls, seafood, and a sauce station that lets you channel your inner saucemaster. I went full alchemist mode and mixed enough garlic and chili to summon a dragon.

Look, flavor-wise, it won’t blow your mind, but for $20... You’ll leave full, happy, and slightly ashamed at how many plates you stacked. Zero regrets. 10/10 would recommend to anyone who counts macros but forgets morals when they see unlimited meat.

💪🍲🔥 #GainsAndShabu #MeatSweatsAreReal #BrothLife #meatMountian...

We went in and we put ourselves on the waitlist. Total of 3 people on the waitlist and none of the servers or host came by to seat us. They weren’t that busy at all but it took about 15-20mins to seat us. Then they sat the people who arrived after us and didn’t even put themselves on the waitlist which was very frustrating. We got seated eventually. The food is okay. The broth is watered down and they take a very long time to bring the meats which I feel like that’s why the AYCE hot pot is only $19.99 because they want you to get full off the vegetables. They offer a bar where you can grab all your vegetables, fruits, tofu, noodles and sauces. The meat is very, very thin. I expect it thin but not that thin. They only let you get 5 meats but it sucks because those meat only have 4 pieces and it sucks when you’re a huge party. Our server took a long time with everything which was disappointing. I’d only recommend going here if you want a cheap AYCE hot pot. $19.99 per person for AYCE hot pot, $10.99 for kids but they do base it off of height which is dumb. $28.99 for AYCE hot pot + sushi. I’m not sure if that’s the same price for lunch but that was dinner for us. The ambiance was slightly dark in there but where we sat, light got in our face numerous times which we couldn’t see. Out of their control but just a little annoying.

(Same review...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 – A Cozy Hot Pot & Sushi Gem!

Shabu Gen is an absolute hidden gem if you're craving comforting hot pot and fresh sushi under one roof.

Hot Pot: The star of the show! The broth options are rich and flavorful—especially the spicy miso and tonkotsu. You get to customize everything, from the broth and dipping sauces to a wide selection of meats, seafood, and fresh veggies. The wagyu beef was incredibly tender, and the homemade dipping sauces elevate every bite. The portion sizes are generous, and everything feels fresh and thoughtfully prepared.

Sushi (Shishi): Surprisingly excellent! Their sushi menu isn’t just an afterthought—fresh fish, beautifully plated, and balanced flavors. The salmon belly melted in my mouth, and their signature rolls have a good mix of creativity and tradition. Try the "Gen Dragon Roll" if you like a bit of spice and crunch.

Service & Atmosphere: Staff are friendly and attentive, always happy to offer recommendations or explain the hot pot process. The ambiance is cozy and modern, great...