Eating hotpot alone is no longer lonely when a Taipei spicy hotpot spot plays "Cupid" and successfully delivers premium beef short ribs.

▲ A Taipei spicy hotpot restaurant recently launched the "Spicy Cupid" event. (Photo/Netizenuriel_happyProvided. Do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

With the cold weather and Christmas approaching, singles often feel lonelier. To cater to the single economy, many eateries have launched solo hotpot options, allowing individuals to enjoy meals comfortably. A Taipei business has even introduced the "Spicy Cupid" campaign—dine in-store from now until further notice, and if you successfully exchange LINE IDs with another solo diner seated across from you, you’ll receive a plate of premium beef short ribs or Iberico pork.

▲ The shop noted that through interactions with these single customers, some expressed hope to meet new friends during their meal. (Illustration/Not the actual person/Netizenalice_ssxoProvided. Do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

The shop mentioned that after regularly observing solo diners and interacting with them, they found that some prefer meeting new people while eating. Hence, starting November 30, they launched the Cupid event, which they plan to continue long-term.

The "Spicy Cupid" event is only available on weekdays. Solo diners will be asked if they want to participate. Those who agree will be randomly paired with another willing participant seated opposite them. Once both successfully exchange LINE IDs and show proof to the staff, they can get a free plate of premium beef short ribs or Iberico pork.

▲ Once both parties successfully exchange LINE IDs and show the screen to the staff, they’ll get a free plate of premium beef short ribs. (Photo/Captured fromRed Nine Nine – Personal Spicy Hotpot Fan Page)

When asked about the most memorable experience, the shop owner said a Hong Kong female customer happened to dine there and met a Taiwanese man through this activity. The woman commented that making friends this way was really nice. There have been about 10 successful pairings so far.

The broth is simmered with 20 types of Chinese herbs and green Sichuan peppercorns. The numbing and spicy flavors are strong but not overly greasy or fiery. However, since green peppercorns and herbs can become bitter when boiled too long over high heat, the shop recommends reducing to low heat after boiling.

▲ Red Nine Nine – Personal Spicy Hotpot is simmered with 20 types of Chinese herbs and green Sichuan peppercorns. (Photo/Captured from Red Nine Nine – Personal Spicy Hotpot Fan Page)

Red Nine Nine Personal Spicy Hotpot
Address: No. 7, Lane 131, Yanji Street, Da’an District, Taipei City