YangGuoFu YGF MalaTang — Restaurant in Seattle

Not sure of many places that specialize in Malatang around. This one is nice and "close" to campus as in it's within walking distance. Still quite a ways on the Ave but not unreasonable. Overall a strong experience and will be back.

Price is based off your bowl weight. Basically you walk in, grab a plastic bowl and tongs, grab whatever selection of items you want, then they weigh your bowl at the cash register and charge you for $13.99 a pound. My one complaint is that items aren't labelled so if you're unfamiliar, you might not have a clue what's what. For me, there were lots of fish balls and I was looking for the fish balls with roe and wasn't sure if they were the basic round ones or the typical ones with a pointy end. (hint, they're the standard fish balls with roe with a pointy tip).

You're given a number then can go sit or wait wherever before they call your number after a few minutes. They tend to call numbers in Chinese first and English second, but if no one comes to claim it, I've seen the staff walk around to ask order numbers. I think that's pretty good service because some people can be deep in conversation and overhear their order.

So the base broths look really spicy with their red color, but they're pretty mild (maybe 1 star). You can request more spiciness once they call your order and they'll add it on top. I really enjoyed the beef bone broth but wouldn't count out the tomato broth either.

My bowl was about 1.5lbs and filled me up pretty well. I do think the quality here is pretty good, though the fish balls with roe could use some work. When I consider $40 all you can eat hot pot versus $30 1.5lbs malatang, I'd probably lean towards the hot pot. They're different types of food for sure, but similar enough for me to use as a reference point. Obviously neither is an option I'd pursue daily but...

Came here yesterday for dinner with a few friends on a Weds evening. To my surprise, parking was available on the same street right out front of the restaurant. It wasn't busy around 6PM so we were able to get seated right away, but it was a full house by 7. I noticed it was a bit noisy when the place was packed which made it difficult to have a conversation. I hadn't been to one of these restaurants before so I thought it was fun to be able to grab a large bowl and add all the veggies, noodles, meats, and other items that you wanted in your soup along with your choice of soup base. It was $14.99/lb which seemed reasonably priced. I chose the bone broth with a 2 star spice level but found it to be spicier than anticipated. Once you've weighed your bowl, the chef cooks it for you. The waitress also went around each table to give free cantaloupe and orange slices. I would consider this place a hot pot fast food restaurant; I'll be happy to go back if I want something quick without the whole hot pot dining...

Love YGF Malatang in the University District! As someone who wants to try more hotpot, but is easily intimidated, this casual spot has become a family favorite. The nature of their design makes it easy to try something new, without having to commit to an entire bowl of it. Upon entering, you’re invited to pick up a bowl and tongs and select from a wide selection of veggies, seafood, and meats. Fill your bowl with what you know you’ll love and then select a piece or two of something new to you. Your bowl is weighed and you’re asked to choose a broth and spice level. You pay and are given a number. You are able to watch them prepare your soup or find a table. When your meal is ready, an automated voice twice says your number. Even at super busy times, it’s easy to hear. Pick up your bowl and take it to the finishing station to add your personal touches. We’ve done both dine in and take-away and it’s always good! Parking is street and usually available. It’s also just a quick walk from...