Dartmouth’s New Hot Pot Korean BBQ Restaurant Is a Hands-on Adventure

Dartmouth's newest culinary sensation has quickly become the talk of the town.

My friends Kyle DeSousa and Dan Stoddard extended an invitation to experience the delights of Hungry Pot Korean BBQ and Hot Pot, which has taken the place of Azuma Asian Bistro off State Road.

After my visit, I was content and full, and also barely able to stand or walk straight. This place is all-you-can-eat and I put in some serious effort.

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The experience unfolded as a delightful fusion of flavors and fun. The only drawback? The lingering scent of food on your clothes for the rest of the day. I know: First World problems.

Featuring a captivating blend of hot pot and Korean BBQ, the menu is packed with meats, seafood and vegetables. From chicken to squid to beef to pork to quail eggs, my taste buds had a gastronomic adventure.

Here's how it all works.

Step 1: Take Your Pick

Choose between the Hot Pot, a pan filled with a broth of your choice (I went for the Spicy Szechwan for an added kick to veggies and meats) and the Korean BBQ, a grill at the center of the table where you cook your food to preference. I opted for both for an additional $5.

Step 2: Place Your Order

Use the tablet on your table to select from vegetables, meats, broths and seafood. Order as much as you desire, starting light to get the hang of it.

Step 3: Head to the Sauce Station

Mix and match sweet, savory and spicy sauces for dipping or to enhance the flavor of your broth as your meats and veggies simmer. If you're not proficient with chopsticks, the sauce station also provides silverware.

Step 4: Prepare Hot Pot or Korean BBQ

The fun part begins. For the Hot Pot, add your chosen meats, veggies or sauces, taking your time to savor the cooking process. For BBQ, spread butter on the hot plate for a non-stick surface and extra flavor. Be mindful of the grill's temperature; your server will replace the pan periodically for a fresh cooking surface.

Step 5: Eat, Enjoy, Repeat

This is an experience. Take your time. You have a two-hour window, which is more than enough to satisfy your appetite. Feel free to reorder as much as you desire. Is doing the work tedious? Yes, a bit, but the taste more than makes up for the effort.

If there's room left, explore the small dessert and fruit bar next to the sauces. I recommend the coconut macaroons.

Again, you're paying for an experience. Dining at Hungry Pot is interactive and enjoyable for the whole family. Doors open at noon, but arriving a few minutes early is advisable due to the overwhelming early traffic generated by the hype.

My lunch with friends at Hungry Pot was thoroughly enjoyable, and I'd gladly return. Lunch costs around $20, while dinner, priced at approximately $30, offers more options and larger entrees. Approach with an open mind and an eager palate. The flavors are diverse and abundant. Even if you don't grasp the process immediately, you'll quickly catch on.

Here's to a refreshing addition to the SouthCoast dining scene.