LaoJie Hotpot — Restaurant in New York

LaoJie has officially won my heart as the ultimate destination for an unforgettable all-you-can-eat hotpot adventure right in the heart of Manhattan. If you're seeking a combination of outstanding service, delectable food, and unbeatable prices, look no further!

From the moment I stepped into LaoJie, the level of service I experienced was nothing short of exceptional. The staff's attentiveness and genuine care for their customers truly set this hotpot haven apart. With each visit, I've been blown away by how they go above and beyond to ensure every need is met. From constantly refilling our waters to topping up our simmering broths without us even needing to ask, their proactive approach adds an extra layer of comfort to the dining experience.

What impressed me even more was their dedication to ensuring we had an enjoyable time. Their attentive nature extended to checking in on us, making sure we were content with our choices, and suggesting additional orders when our plates started to empty. This level of service, coupled with the vibrant and cozy ambiance, made every visit feel like a special occasion.

And let's talk about the food - a true delight for hotpot enthusiasts like myself. The extensive selection of fresh ingredients, from succulent meats to a variety of vegetables, ensures that every craving is satisfied. The broths, simmering with rich flavors, transform each bite into a comforting and delicious experience. The best part? The all-you-can-eat option doesn't compromise on quality, allowing you to savor a wide range of flavors without breaking the bank.

In a city where dining costs can often climb to astronomical heights, LaoJie offers an all-you-can-eat hotpot experience that's not only reasonably priced but also delivers outstanding value for your money. Whether you're catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply satisfying your hotpot cravings, LaoJie is a must-visit destination that will exceed your expectations.

Hats off to LaoJie for consistently providing an exceptional dining experience. I can confidently say that this establishment has earned a permanent spot on my list of go-to restaurants...

Every once in a while, I am in the wrong place at the wrong time, and there is a hotpot place nearby, and I make the grievous mistake of imagining I am going to have hotpot like LaoJie Hotpot. And every time, I am disappointed. (At the time I am writing this, I am at another perfectly reasonable hotpot restaurant in Coney Island—that is Just Not Half As Good.)

In fact, every time I find myself accidentally eating at another hot pot restaurant, I realize that hotpot (per se) is NOT my favorite of all time. LaoJie is my favorite of all time.

So. Forgive me if this is not the most helpful review, but I am sitting here lamenting my choice because I could have just had the best meal ever, and I didn’t.

Okay, I’ll try to be more helpful: Broths - Super in flavor, spice, savory, umami goodness. Appetizers - Oh my god no this, I forget with the little donut things are called, but make sure to order them. Hotpot - I’m a pescatarian so I don’t know about the meat, but since I bring everyone who visits me in New York there and get rave reports every time, I think they must be pretty good. I love all of the vegetables and try the fish paste. Trust me on that. It’s like eating little clouds of deliciousness. Dessert - I don’t know what it is, but I know that I love it. It taste like a mix between fruit and flowers and it’s such a delight with a bits of gelatin that melt in your mouth.

In fact, I’m a bit angsty right now because the meal I just had at this other place finished and no one brought me a bowl of deliciousness that melts in my mouth. Which is how I ended up here writing review for LaoJie, even though I ate somewhere else tonight.

Service and atmosphere are also terrific. Genuine well...

This is hands down the best value ayce hotpot in Manhattan. I would say it even goes toe to toe with my go to spots in flushing. The meat/seafood quality is great, lots of selection on the menu and also the sauce bar which is always well stocked, also the complimentary milk tea pudding dessert absolutely hits the spot after a ton of hotpot. Super light and a nice palate cleanser, I never really liked the ice cream other spots give, sort of the last thing I want after ayce. Maybe that’s just me lol.

Also service is so great here it’s actually almost slightly uncomfortable hahaha. Like your own personal butler constantly cleaning your plates, refilling water, scooping out the scum from your pot, everything. Even when I go on a packed house Saturday I have no issues with reordering or anything, which is especially great for ayce. I’ll also add that I love the ambience here, nice decor. Though sometimes if it’s too crowded you’ll be seated in the downstairs dungeon section which still has great service but let’s just say it’s exists not to wow people, just for extra seating lol.

I guess the only thing I could say is not great is the birthday celebrations. They turn that shit up to max volume and by the second time you hear it it gets pretty grating. Saturday night they played it like ten times in two hours lol. Granted the other spots do the same thing, and really tho free hotpot on your birthday who can pass that up.

I will be coming here many more times, no question. $35 is an absolute steal for what you get, especially here...