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Hometown Hotpot & BBQ

194 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
$$$
BBQ

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Master Critic Review

Hometown Hotpot & BBQ 8.3
Chinatown
An all-you-can-eat hot pot and grill spot where the BBQ win is variety and pace: marinated proteins, quick refills, and a build-your-own rhythm that works best with a clear plan. It’s a party-friendly room that rewards disciplined ordering—start with your best meats, cook them right, then treat everything else as supporting cast.
Must-Try Dishes: Marinated beef slices for the grill, Pork belly, Seafood mix (shrimp + squid)
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 8 Consistency: 8.6 Food Quality: 8.5 Atmosphere: 6.6 Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: All-you-can-eat hot pot plus tabletop BBQ in a big-group format.
Who should go: Groups who want AYCE grilling
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid peak waits
What to order: Marinated beef, pork belly, seafood mix
Insider tip: Start with your top 3 proteins first—don’t waste grill space on fillers early.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very limited in Chinatown, especially after 6pm. Best bet is a nearby paid garage or rideshare.
Dress code: Casual and practical—jeans and comfortable clothes recommended. Avoid anything delicate since you’ll be cooking at the table.
Noise level: Loud and energetic—conversation is possible within your group, but this isn’t a quiet dining room.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal to no wait, especially earlier in the day
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, and broth-based hot pot options work well if you plan carefully.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with vegetable broths and plant-based items, but cross-contact is likely.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some proteins and vegetables are naturally gluten-free, but marinades and shared grills mean cross-contamination is common. Ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date—the cooking, noise, and pacing make it better for people who already know each other.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect waits during dinner hours. Arriving early or going on a weekday improves your odds significantly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and teens who enjoy interactive cooking; less suitable for very young children due to hot grills and busy tables.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, celebrations, and diners who want maximum variety and value in an all-you-can-eat format.
Skip if: You want a calm, conversation-forward meal or a refined BBQ experience—choose a traditional BBQ or hot pot specialist instead.