There’s something magical about gathering around a bubbling pot of aromatic broth while Dubai’s pleasant winter evenings set the perfect backdrop. Hot pot isn’t just a meal it’s an experience that brings people together, letting you cook your own adventure one delicious ingredient at a time. From sizzling Sichuan broths that pack serious heat to mild, comforting options that please every palate, the city offers an impressive variety that rivals some of Asia’s best hot pot destinations.
In this guide to the best hot pot in Dubai, we’ve done the legwork for you. We’re covering everything from opulent, luxury spots in Downtown and DIFC to wallet friendly gems in International City and Karama. Whether you’re looking to splurge on premium wagyu and lobster or keep things budget conscious with unlimited refills, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to dip into Dubai’s hottest hot pot scene? Let’s dive in!
Quick Comparison: Top 5 Hot Pot Restaurants in Dubai
| Restaurant Name | Specialty | Price Range | Location |
| Haidilao Hot Pot | World class service, noodle performances, premium ingredients | Luxury (AED 150-250) | Dubai Mall, Downtown |
| Little Lamb | Signature Mongolian herbal broth, premium lamb cuts | Mid-Luxury (AED 120-200) | Dubai Marina, Deira |
| Spice Pot | Unlimited all you can eat, extensive sauce bar | Budget (AED 49-69) | Al Barsha |
| Seven Hotpot | Best value unlimited option, family friendly | Budget (AED 79) | Multiple locations across Dubai |
| Chongqing Liuyishou | Authentic Sichuan mala broth, traditional Chinese experience | Mid-Range (AED 100-150) | Business Bay, Jumeirah Lake Towers |
Premium Hot Pot Experiences Where Luxury Meets Flavor
Haidilao Hot Pot Dubai Mall
When it comes to authentic Chinese Best Hot Pot in Dubai has to offer, Haidilao sets the gold standard. This internationally acclaimed chain has turned hot pot into a full blown spectacle, and their Dubai Mall location doesn’t disappoint.
What makes Haidilao a premium dining experience? It’s not just about the food though their broths and fresh ingredients are exceptional. It’s the legendary service that keeps diners coming back for more.
Why Haidilao Stands Out:
- Complimentary services while you wait Free manicures, phone screen cleaning, and even shoe shining make the queue time fly by
- The famous noodle dance Watch skilled chefs perform mesmerizing hand pulled noodle shows at your table
- Personalized attention Staff anticipate your needs before you even ask, from tying your hair back to adjusting bibs
- Premium ingredient selection Wagyu beef, fresh seafood, and over 100 condiment options at their sauce bar
- Perfect for special occasions They go all out for birthdays with songs and celebrations
Price Range: AED 150-250 per person
Little Lamb Mongolian Hot Pot Marina & Deira
For those seeking an authentic Chinese hot pot Dubai experience with a focus on tradition, Little Lamb delivers unmatched quality through their signature broth recipe.
This beloved chain has mastered the art of the Mongolian style hot pot, and their secret weapon is a broth that’s been perfected over decades.
What Makes Little Lamb Special:
- The legendary signature broth A proprietary blend of herbs and spices simmered for hours, offering depth you simply can’t replicate at home
- Premium lamb selection Hand sliced, tender cuts that are the restaurant’s namesake specialty
- Two convenient locations Choose between the waterfront Marina spot or the accessible Deira branch
- Authentic preparation methods Traditional cooking techniques ensure genuine flavors
- Fresh ingredients daily Vegetables, meats, and seafood arrive fresh each morning
Price Range: AED 120-200 per person
Pro Tip: Order their signature lamb platter and let it cook briefly in the herbal broth. It’s a game changer that showcases why Little Lamb has built such a loyal following across Asia and beyond.
Unlimited Hot Pot Deals: Maximum Flavor, Minimal Spend
Spice Pot – Al Barsha
If you’re hunting for unlimited best Hot Pot in Dubai 59 AED style deals, Spice Pot is your new best friend. This hidden gem has mastered the art of delivering a satisfying all you can eat experience without compromising on quality.
What You’ll Love:
- Unbeatable pricing Starting from just AED 49 for lunch and AED 69 for dinner
- True unlimited refills Keep ordering meats, vegetables, noodles, and seafood to your heart’s content
- Impressive sauce bar Over 20 condiments and sauces let you create your perfect dipping companion
- Multiple broth options Choose from spicy Sichuan, tom yum, mushroom, or their signature house blend
- Great for groups Split pot options mean everyone gets their preferred broth
Price Range: AED 49-69 per person (unlimited)
Insider Tip: Come hungry and pace yourself. The unlimited refills are genuinely unlimited, so there’s no rush!
Seven Hotpot – Multiple Locations
When it comes to the best value hot pot in Dubai, Seven Hotpot consistently delivers on both quality and quantity. Their all you can eat concept has won over students, families, and anyone who appreciates great food at fair prices.
Why Budget Conscious Foodies Choose Seven Hotpot:
- Affordable unlimited option Around AED 79 per person for all-you-can-eat
- Premium ingredients included Even unlimited deals feature quality beef, lamb, and fresh vegetables
- Extensive sauce station Create endless flavor combinations with their well-stocked condiment bar featuring sesame paste, garlic, chili oils, and more
- No hidden charges What you see is what you payno surprise service fees
- Convenient locations Easy to find across Dubai
- Family-friendly atmosphere Relaxed vibe perfect for bringing kids along
Price Range: AED 79 per person (unlimited)
Making the Most of Your Unlimited Experience
Smart ordering tips for unlimited hot pot deals:
- Start with vegetables and tofu to warm up your appetite
- Order meats in smaller batches to ensure they’re fresh from the kitchen
- Don’t skip the sauce bar experiment with combinations to find your signature blend
- Remember: it’s a marathon, not a sprint, enjoy the social experience!
These Best Hot Pot in Dubai spots prove that you don’t need deep pockets to enjoy one of the city’s most fun dining experiences. Whether you’re a student on a budget or simply love getting maximum value, these restaurants deliver authentic flavors and endless refills that’ll keep you coming back for more.
How to Eat Hot Pot Like a Pro: A Beginner’s Complete Guide
Step 1: Choosing Your Broth (The Foundation of Flavor)
Your broth choice sets the stage for everything that follows. Here’s how to decide:
The Split Pot Solution (Yin Yang Pot)
This is the ultimate beginner move and honestly, what most experienced diners order too. You get a divided pot with two different broths, giving you the best of both worlds.
Popular combinations:
- Spicy Sichuan + Mild Mushroom Perfect balance of heat and comfort
- Tom Yum + Herbal Thai zing meets Chinese tradition
- Mala (numbing spicy) + Clear Chicken Adventure on one side, safety on the other
Single Broth Options:
- Mild/Clear broths (chicken, mushroom, tomato) Great for first timers and kids
- Medium spice (tomato with chili, mild mala) A gentle introduction to heat
- Spicy broths (authentic Sichuan, extra mala) Only if you genuinely love spicy food
Pro insight: Can’t decide? Ask your server which broth pairs best with the meats you’re ordering. They know their stuff!
Step 2: Mastering the Sauce Bar (Your Secret Weapon)
The sauce bar is where you become an artist. Your dipping sauce can make or break the hot pot experience, and the beauty is you can adjust as you go.
The Foolproof Beginner’s Sauce Recipe:
- Base layer 2-3 spoonfuls of sesame paste or peanut sauce
- Flavor boost 1 spoonful soy sauce
- Aromatics Fresh garlic (minced) and spring onions
- Heat level Chili oil to taste (start with half a spoon)
- Finishing touches Dash of vinegar and a sprinkle of coriander
Mix it all together and taste. Too thick? Add a splash of the provided broth. Too bland? More garlic and soy sauce never hurt anyone.
Popular Sauce Combinations by Style:
Classic Chinese:
- Sesame paste + soy sauce + garlic + coriander + chili oil
Lighter & Refreshing:
- Ponzu sauce + spring onions + a touch of sesame oil
Bold & Spicy:
- Chili oil + Sichuan peppercorn oil + garlic + vinegar + soy sauce
Creamy & Rich:
- Peanut butter sauce + sesame paste + a bit of sugar + garlic
Remember: You can always go back to the sauce bar and create a second sauce. Many hot pot pros have 2-3 different sauces going at once!
Step 3: The Cooking Sequence (Timing Is Everything)
This is where beginners often go wrong. Dumping everything in at once creates chaos. Follow this proven sequence instead:
Round 1 – Flavor Builders (First 5 minutes)
- Mushrooms and root vegetables (carrots, radish, potatoes)
- These take longer to cook and add sweetness to your broth
Round 2 – Quick Cooking Vegetables (After 5-7 minutes)
- Leafy greens (bok choy, spinach, lettuce)
- Tofu and bean curd products
- Timing: 1-2 minutes until tender
Round 3 – Seafood (Cook in small batches)
- Fish balls, shrimp, squid, mussels
- Timing: 2-4 minutes (don’t overcook!)
- Look for shrimp to turn pink and curl
Round 4 – The Main Event: Meat
- Thinly sliced beef, lamb, or pork
- The technique: Use your chopsticks to swish meat in the boiling broth
- Timing: 10-20 seconds for beef (yes, really!), 30-45 seconds for pork and lamb
- Watch the color change from pink to cooked
Round 5 – Noodles & Dumplings (Grand Finale)
- Add these toward the end when you’re getting full
- They soak up all the delicious flavors you’ve built
- Timing: 3-5 minutes depending on thickness
Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Pot in Dubai
1. Are there halal hot pot options in Dubai?
Absolutely! The vast majority of hot pot restaurants in Dubai serve halal meat and follow halal preparation standards. This includes all the major chains like Haidilao, Little Lamb, and Seven Hotpot.
What to know:
- Most establishments clearly display halal certification at the entrance
- If you’re unsure, simply ask your server they’re always happy to confirm
- Alcohol is typically not served at authentic Chinese hot pot restaurants, making them naturally halal friendly
- Some upscale locations may have separate menus with pork options, but these are clearly labeled and prepared separately
Pro tip: When booking or arriving, you can always request confirmation about halal certification. Reputable restaurants are transparent and proud to show their credentials.
2. What’s the cheapest hot pot deal in Dubai?
The budget friendly Best Hot Pot in Dubai option is Spice Pot in Al Barsha, with unlimited hot pot starting at just AED 49 for lunch and AED 69 for dinner. This is genuinely all you can eat with no hidden charges.
Other affordable options:
- Seven Hotpot: AED 79 per person for unlimited hot pot
- Weekday lunch specials: Many mid range restaurants offer discounted lunch deals (AED 60-80)
- Happy hour promotions: Some spots run early bird specials between 12-3 PM
Money saving tips:
- Visit during lunch hours for the lowest prices
- Check social media pages for limited time promotions
- Unlimited deals are best for groups of 3+ people
- Tap water is free skip the expensive bottled beverages
Important: While these are budget options, the quality remains excellent. You’re getting an authentic hot pot experience without the luxury price tag.
3. When is the best time to visit hot pot restaurants in Dubai?
The absolute best time for hot pot in Dubai is during the cooler months from October through March. Here’s why timing matters:
Seasonal Considerations:
Peak Season (Oct-Mar):
- ✓ Perfect weather makes the steamy, warming experience ideal
- ✓ More promotional deals and special menus
- ✗ Restaurants are busier reservations essential
- ✗ Wait times can exceed 1-2 hours on weekends without booking
Off-Peak (Apr-Sep):
- ✓ Shorter wait times, easier walk-ins
- ✓ Air conditioning makes indoor dining comfortable year-round
- ✓ Sometimes better deals to attract customers
- ✗ Less atmospheric when it’s blazing hot outside
Best Days & Times:
Weekdays (Mon-Thu):
- Lunch (12-3 PM): Quietest time, best for first timers
- Dinner (6-8 PM): Moderate crowds, no reservation usually needed
Weekends (Fri-Sat):
- Book 2-3 days ahead for dinner
- Prime time (7-9 PM) fills up fastest
- Consider early (5:30 PM) or late (9:30 PM) slots
Public Holidays & Special Occasions:
- Chinese New Year: Expect premium pricing and packed restaurants
- Dubai Shopping Festival: Look for special promotions
- National Day & Eid: Book well in advance
Insider recommendation: Tuesday or Wednesday evenings (6-7 PM) offer the perfect balance restaurants are staffed well, not too crowded, and you get the full experience without the weekend rush.
4. Is hot pot suitable for kids and families?
Yes! Hot pot is actually one of the most family friendly dining experiences in Dubai, and here’s why it works so well for all ages:
Why Families Love Hot Pot:
Interactive & Educational:
- Kids enjoy cooking their own food it’s like a fun science experiment
- Teaches them about different ingredients and cuisines
- Keeps children engaged throughout the meal (less phone time!)
Customizable for Picky Eaters:
- Mild broth options that aren’t spicy
- Kids can choose exactly what goes in their bowl
- Familiar items available: noodles, chicken, corn, potatoes
- No pressure to try everything they control their portions
Practical Benefits:
- Most restaurants have high chairs and kids’ utensils
- Unlimited options mean you’re not worried about ordering enough
- Cooking time gives kids something to do while waiting
- Shared experience brings families together
Family Friendly Restaurant Picks:
Best for families with young kids:
- Seven Hotpot: Relaxed atmosphere, affordable unlimited option
- Spice Pot: Budget friendly, casual vibe
Best for special family occasions:
- Haidilao: Kids love the noodle dance performances and complimentary snacks
- Little Lamb: Spacious seating, attentive service