Crazy Hotpot — Restaurant in Metairie

I would say, "Come for the robots, leave for the lack of attention to detail," but I didn't even get to see any robots. 🥲😔

Do not sit upstairs. Hit that staircase and don't take another step.

I'm not usually one to leave reviews, especially negative ones, but I am so disappointed. I was elated to learn that a hot pot had opened in Metairie; I looked forward to my reservation all day.

I can't believe this restaurant just opened this year. I can't speak to the downstairs, but the upstairs looked like it hadn't been cleaned in quite some time. Chairs were scuffed, stained, and dirty; the floors were cracked and old. We were sat at what had to have been the worst table in the restaurant, despite having a reservation and even though the restaurant was almost empty when we arrived. There was no music upstairs, and was eerily and awkwardly quiet until all of sudden, it was full. We must have come just before the rush.

The vessels that the hot pots are warmed in looked like they had barely been cleaned, as the lips already had discoloration and things burnt onto them. We were sat next to the karaoke rooms (despite us being just a two-top).The aisle our table was on was very small, and there was a near constant back and forth of a bussing cart being rolled by right next to us, not to mention the traffic from the party rooms. Not a place for date night. I would even go as far to say that the entire upstairs was designed by someone who has never worked in a restaurant before. The buffet is awkwardly placed, and that whole aisle of tables should not exist. You're doing your customers a huge disservice sitting them there.

My biggest, biggest issue and one I was shocked at, was that there were only a few tongs for a wide variety of items. Good thing we didn't have an allergy, and I worry for anyone who does. Especially the meat section. After touching raw meat, the tongs are just thrown into a row to cross contaminate handles with ends.

Tongs are cheap, and there is absolutely no excuse that each item does not have their own set. I can't believe that has to be said.

The food was...meh. But about what I would expect from a $30 hot pot. I had the Cajun broth and it was enjoyable. My partner had the bone but said it was a little bland. I did like that each person has their own broth, so there's no arguing or bartering about flavors for the whole table.

If you're looking for an adult beverage with your meal, you'll be disappointed to learn there are two options: Corona or Heineken. No sake. No wine. Nada. Choose wisely.

The saving grace was our server, and I'm disappointed in myself I can't remember her name. She was polite, helpful, and competent. A young girl who recommended the sesame balls, which were tasty. She's awesome. 🙌 I will say though, another server literally walked by our table, and just snatched up our menu to give to her own. 😂 Yes. Snatched.

Hope ownership can better the place. So disappointed in the execution of what could have been one of the best places in Metairie. Sell a karaoke machine and...

4/18/2023 UPDATE!!

I didn’t think they could do it but they did! I felt like every single one of my issues from the first visit was addressed and it definitely was a much better experience than the first time. An emphasis on sauces was highly needed and there’s now a sign on the wall helping to direct first timers. The new buffet layout is very pleasing to the eye and it’s very clean.

Our server, I believe her name was Kia (I’m sorry if it’s wrong) was amazing. She was very honest about what she had tasted and didn’t and was on top of our table throughout the meal.

And to top it all off, everything was delicious. I hope this place continues to move upward and always make steps towards becoming better! Taking constructive criticism is part of that and they definitely listened. I highly recommend eating here with a big group of friends, you’ll leave happy for sure.

Crazy Hot Pot is a solid addition to the Metairie food scene, setting itself apart as the only Hot Pot (solo style) experience available in Louisiana. The inside is HUGE and freshly renovated, from the bathrooms to the second dining room upstairs, complete with a full sauce bar and karaoke rooms. The robot waiters are super cute - definitely gave us a good laugh. The pricing is reasonable, especially considering the fact that it truly is all you can eat ($30 for adults, $15 for children aged 4-12, free for children under 3), some items might just have a limited quantity allowed on the table.

There are several broth, meat, and vegetable options to personalize your broth with, as well as noodles and rice. I think the appetizers need a bit more variety, it’s quite small compared to a place like Gyu-Kaku or Daiwa. The food ended up being delicious and we ate until we were stuffed.

Things weren’t perfect though, which is understandable for a new restaurant trying to figure things out. Certain items didn’t make it to the table and the course spacing is a bit awkward. We received bottled drinks which isn’t a problem, but no glasses of ice. We received all of our meat and seafood at different times and the noodles came out last - they also were out of ramen noodles on the opening day. The ordering system on the iPad can be a little confusing, printed menus on the table with maybe a brief explanation of Hot Pot for beginners would be more ideal. Our server was super sweet but I felt like she didn’t know much about the menu. I’ve dined at Hot Pot places in Texas and Atlanta and the server usually guides us through our experience - that didn’t happen here.

I’m still giving it 5 stars because I see the amazing potential of this place and there is a greatness in being the first Hot Pot place in Louisiana - now I won’t have to drive hours for it!! Will update review in two months after we give them some time to work out...

A Perfect Lunar New Year Celebration at Crazy Hot Pot

Dr. Jack Ward and I had the most delightful culinary experience at Crazy Hot Pot as we celebrated the Lunar New Year 2024, the Year of the Dragon. From the moment I made our reservation online, the anticipation for our 7 pm dinner was palpable. As we stepped into the restaurant, we were warmly greeted by the staff and ushered upstairs to a private booth, setting the stage for an exceptional. evening.

Our server, Ying, immediately made us feel at home by presenting the menus and providing an informative overview of the dining experience. She expertly preheated our individual hot pot heaters, ensuring we were ready to dive into the culinary adventure ahead. The appetizers and beverages were promptly served, and Ying attentively checked on us throughout the evening, ensuring that everything met our expectations.

To further enhance our Lunar New Year celebration, we were pleasantly surprised with a thoughtful gift at the end of our meal, adding a special touch to an already memorable experience. Additionally, we were impressed by the demonstration of the robot server in the downstairs dining area, a testament to the restaurant's innovative approach to customer service.

Our evening at Crazy Hot Pot was truly wonderful, and we left with a strong desire to return. The combination of exceptional service, delicious food, and the festive ambiance made for an unforgettable dining experience. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff for their hospitality and look forward to returning to Crazy Hot Pot in the future. Without a doubt, we'll be back for more remarkable experiences. This restaurant has earned our highest recommendation! 💯💯💯

Thank you, Karen M. Pendleton, M.D....