As the temperatures dip and the idea of a warm, bubbling pot of soup shared among friends becomes ever more tempting, hot pot stands out as the perfect comfort food. On O‘ahu, where diverse cultures blend harmoniously, hot pot has become a celebrated dish with an array of varieties to enjoy. Whether it be a traditional Chinese shabu-shabu, Japanese sukiyaki, or a spicy Korean stew, this communal meal has something for every palate. So grab your chopsticks and ready your taste buds; here are the top 5 hot pot destinations on O‘ahu that promise to fill you up with their savory broths and an abundance of fresh ingredients.

1. Jin Din Rou – Located in the heart of Honolulu, Jin Din Rou is renowned for its flavorful broth and a selection of high-quality meats. Their hot pots come with an assortment of vegetables and sides that perfectly complement the star of the show: their dumplings. The setting is cozy and modern, making it perfect for families and groups.

2. Shiro’s Saimin Haven – While famous for their saimin, Shiro’s also serves up an exceptional hot pot experience. The haven offers an assortment of broths including a rich miso base and an invigorating seafood broth teeming with oceanic flavors. It’s a must-visit spot for those looking to enjoy local twists on classic hot pot ingredients.

3. Ichiriki Japanese Nabe Restaurant – A favorite among locals for its customizable nabe, or Japanese-style hot pots, Ichiriki delights diners with its wide range of broth options and fresh ingredients. Ichiriki’s signature dish is their pirikara nabe—a spicy concoction that can be toned down (or up!) to your preference.

4. Sweet Home Café – Regarded as one of the best places for Taiwanese hot pot in O‘ahu, Sweet Home Café offers both individual and group pots. Their homemade broths, particularly the Sweet House Special Broth, have earned them a loyal following. Additionally, they offer a ‘sauce bar’ where you can whip up your unique dipping sauce.

5. Yakiniku Seoul – Straddling the line between Korean BBQ and hot pot, Yakiniku Seoul delivers impressively with their combination meals. Enjoy grilling exquisite cuts of meat at your table before submerging them into a deliciously simmering soup base—the perfect two-in-one experience.

Hot pot dining is intrinsically about community and variety; these top spots on O‘ahu bring people together through their shared love of food and flavor exploration that can only be described as ‘ono (delicious). Remember to call ahead as some places may require reservations or have specific hours of operation. Happy slurping!