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Mr. Liu Hot Pot
Master Critic Review
Mr. Liu Hot Pot
7.9
A Turnstyle Underground Market stall serving customizable malatang/hot-pot bowls with real Sichuan punch. You pick ingredients by weight, choose your broth, and walk away with a warming, choose-your-own-adventure meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mala dry-pot bowl (build-your-own), Beef & fish-ball malatang, Tomato broth hot pot
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A rare Midtown malatang stop tucked inside Turnstyle market.
Who should go: Custom-bowl lovers and subway-stop grazers
When to visit: Lunch break for shortest queues
What to order: Build mala bowl, add beef, lotus root, fish balls
Insider tip: Ask for ‘medium mala’ if you want flavor without fire.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited around Columbus Circle, and it can be tricky during peak hours. No valet available, but parking garages nearby offer rates starting at $20/hour.
Dress code: Casual – Feel free to wear jeans and a t-shirt, but no need for anything too fancy.
Noise level: Moderate – It's in the food hall, so expect some background noise, but still manageable for a conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect a 15-30 minute wait due to the busy market area.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially if you go right after the lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - Plenty of vegetable options like tofu, mushrooms, and various greens to choose from.
Vegan options: Limited - While not a fully vegan-friendly spot, you can customize your bowl with plant-based ingredients such as tofu and veggies.
Gluten-free options: Yes - The broth is customizable, and the ingredients are mostly gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible in the shared space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can be fun if you and your date enjoy interactive dining, but the bustling food hall atmosphere might not be the most intimate for some.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, since it's in a food hall with individual stalls, reservations aren't needed. However, it can get crowded during peak hours, so be prepared to stand or wait briefly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, though it’s better for older kids who can handle spicy food. Younger children may not enjoy the heat of the broth, and there’s limited seating space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Mr. Liu Hot Pot shines in offering highly customizable and flavorful malatang, with a genuine Sichuan heat that sets it apart from other hot pot options in the area.
Skip if: If you're looking for a traditional sit-down restaurant experience with less hustle and bustle, this might not be the place for you.