Spring Shabu Shabu Grill

--- This was my first visit to this location and my initial experience with this franchise, which my friends chose while I treated them to a meal of their choice. Service-wise, we often found ourselves having to call on employees just to get extra napkins. While we had someone come by twice to offer drink refills, on other occasions, we had to seek out staff ourselves. While I was still sipping my drink, a short man approached my friend and leaned in close, cupping his hand as he whispered something. My other friend had just finished his ice cream, and I wasn’t sure what was being said. I thought perhaps the man was thanking him for the generous tip I'd just left, or maybe they were acquaintances, since my friend dines out frequently and is known by many restaurant owners. After the man left, I asked my friend what he had said. He revealed that we were told we needed to leave our booth to accommodate other waiting customers. I glanced around and noticed there were plenty of empty tables around us. The same friend who had been approached later needed to use the restroom and came across the short man again. He confronted him, stating that his behavior was rude and mentioned that it was our first time dining out together in years, it was my first visit to this location, and I had just left a substantial tip. The man responded, saying, "You're only allowed to occupy a table for two hours," which my friend argued was a rule that only applied during strict COVID lockdowns—something I had never heard of either. When my friend returned to the table, he filled me in on the encounter, and we decided to leave. There was one party waiting at the front, but I counted at least five empty booths like ours on the way out. My friend, who frequently visits various Shabu Shabu restaurants around Los Angeles County, said he would no longer recommend this location and would suggest another he enjoys more. He brought me here because he thought the selection was better, but he preferred the atmosphere of the other spot. As a Local Guide, I assured him I would write a review about this establishment. He specifically asked me to mention that the hostess, servers, and staff were friendly to us, which is why I left a generous tip. In terms of the food, it was fairly standard—everyone picks their meats and vegetables from a buffet to cook on a grill and in a soup pot at our table. The food appeared fresh, there was a wide selection, and it was all-you-can-cook -- although apparently within a two-hour limit. Personally, I wouldn’t have chosen this place to bring guests. I find it overpriced at nearly $40 per person for a self-serve dinner, but I understand why the prices are high. Despite the uncomfortable interaction with the short man, I'm glad my friends had an enjoyable experience. I doubt I will return, nor would I bring any guests back to this location. Regarding recommendations for the El Monte Shabu Shabu, here are my thoughts: 1. Bring plenty of money—it's not cheap. Expect to pay between $30 to $40 per person, with additional costs for appetizers or drinks. 2. Since Shabu Shabu is primarily a self-serve experience where you cook your own food, the servers are mostly just around to refill drinks. Thus, tipping is more of a courtesy than an obligation in my view; if you do tip, it should reflect the level of service you actually receive, and it’s best to leave it when you get up to leave. **Kid-friendliness:** Given that you’re cooking right at the table on a gas grill or in a boiling soup pot, with limited space around, I wouldn’t recommend this place for children. **Parking:** The restaurant is located in a shopping complex with ample parking available, especially due to the large former store space nearby.

The only downside to my experience was the cramped space at the dining table. I’m neither overweight nor tall, but I found myself constantly bumping my knees against the table, which made for a very uncomfortable dining experience. I can't imagine a larger or taller person fitting comfortably at the table, which is unfortunate. On the bright side, this is an all-you-can-eat restaurant where you can grill your own meat, seafood, and enjoy boiling soup right at your table. There’s a great selection of meats, seafood, and vegetables to choose from, and they even offer free ice cream. However, I left the restaurant with sore knees from hitting the table.

Monday birthday dinner was fantastic! The service was excellent, and the food quality was outstanding. We enjoyed fresh seafood, delicious meat, and flavorful vegetables. Highly recommended!

Great hotpot experience! They offer a wide selection of meats, seafood, vegetables, desserts, and ice cream. Definitely a must-try!

Consistently the best in town! We always choose this place to celebrate our special family occasions. The staff is always welcoming and warm.