Incredible — Haidilao now allows customers to bring their own ingredients and drinks, with no extra charge at all

▲ Haidilao Hotpot. (Photo / Burnout Nurse)

Reported by Huang Shiyuan / Taipei

Haidilao Hotpot, known for its over-the-top service, has done it again with a surprising move. On the 12th, its official Facebook page announced that all Haidilao branches in Taiwan will fully allow guests to bring their favorite ingredients to enhance their meals — whether it's food or drinks, you can bring them in. Even items that the restaurant itself sells can be brought from outside. The best part? There’s absolutely no additional fee charged for this. This service could be a first in Taiwan’s spicy hotpot scene.

Besides allowing you to bring your own ingredients, Haidilao also announced that there will be no minimum spending requirement when booking private rooms starting now. The hotpot chain welcomes family gatherings, company dinners, birthday celebrations, or even upcoming Christmas gift exchange parties to reserve a private room.

Haidilao has been expanding continuously in Taiwan. Following the announcement of opening its 5th store at Taipei Main Station’s Jing Station by the end of 2017, the next planned locations are Taoyuan and Kaohsiung. The Taoyuan branch will be located at President Department Store in front of Taoyuan Railway Station, with an expected opening in March 2018. With Haidilao already present in Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Taichung, the next logical step is heading south. The first southern Haidilao branch will be located at Hanshin Dome, though the opening is tentatively scheduled for September 2018 — friends in Kaohsiung might have to wait a bit longer.


▲ Afraid of eating hotpot alone? Haidilao even provides adorable “dining companions.” (Photo / Authorized by Foodjoy)

The biggest highlight of Haidilao Hotpot is its “over-the-top service.” In addition to constant attention, offering tea, massages, manicures, and more, the most unique service is probably “babysitting for you.” Additionally, the signature noodles performance — complete with flashy showmanship — is a must-see. You’ll watch a young chef toss and stretch noodles in rhythm with music, slowly pulling them into thin strands before cooking them in the pot for you. There’s also a face-changing performance to enjoy. Reported by Huang Shiyuan / Taipei