Happy Panda Kitchen Chinese Hot Pot — Restaurant in Los Angeles

Good hotpot, but be mindful of the cost and dinner rush. Happy Panda Kitchen is a solid choice if you're craving hotpot in Westwood. The individual hotpot style is great, and the broths are flavorful. The ingredients all taste fresh, and it's a fun and interactive dining experience to build your own meal. The main thing to be aware of, especially as a student on a budget, is the price. A single meal can add up quickly once you start adding toppings and drinks, and it's definitely on the more expensive side for a casual dinner. I've found it's more of a "treat yourself" or special occasion spot rather than a regular dinner option. Also, be prepared for a crowd if you go during peak dinner hours. The place gets packed, and the noise level can be high. If you're a student looking for a quick and affordable meal, there are better options in the area, but if you're in the mood for hotpot and don't mind the price, it's a good...

This has been my favorite spot to get the most well seasoned and spicy hot pot. I always get the Mala hot pot FLAMING and it comes with a lot of peppers and the numbing herbs. This was my favorite take out place since COVID and happy to see they are still providing high quality food.

I will say though the last time I was there the service was lacking. They now have an online ordering system which is fast, but the servers never came back to check on if I wanted a wanter refill (of course with spicy food!) Or a to go box.

Also, this restaurant is now under new management. Please new owners, bring back the lunch special! You will have even more happy...

Great individual style hot pot place in Westwood! Everything is ordered from mobile and they have a wide selection of soup bases, add-ons, cold dishes and drinks. We ordered multiple soups including Sauerkraut lamb, Thai fusion, Mushroom and Golden beef. They give you good portion of ingredients (meat, balls, tofu, fish cake, different kinds of veggies and mushrooms). On the side there is rice or vermicelli noodle option. It is very filling!

I am also pleasantly surprised by the drink. Ordered the Honey Kumquat Lemon and it pairs nicely with boiling hot soup to cool my mouth and reset my taste buds for the next bite....