David's Hot Pot

Overview

If you're after the real deal when it comes to a Sichuan hot pot feast, you'll find yourself in expert hands with a visit to much-loved CBD restaurant, David's Hot Pot. Originating in hot pot's heartland of Chengdu, the brand made its way to Melbourne in 2017 and has since spawned three local outposts (plus one in Brisbane), which see the crowds flocking for big, fresh flavours and traditional Sichuan-style broths.

It's buzzy, colourful and primed for group feeds, with a rainbow of lanterns strung from the ceiling and steam wafting from the fragrant pots atop each table.

The kitchen's boldly flavoured soup bases marry classic ingredients with top-quality Australian beef tallow, with options ranging from the fiery Signature Spicy Character broth ($36), to a laksa-style number ($29.80), to a dried fish maw and chicken soup ($48.80). There are four levels of heat to choose from, and a vast array of add-ins to pimp your hot pot — including beef slices, house-made lobster balls, enoki, pork belly, braised short rib and sweet potato noodles. Plus, a slew of things to suit more adventurous diners, too.

Round out your feast with some classic snacks — maybe some fried rice cakes or prawn dumplings — and a few crisp Tsingtao brews ($8.80) or local wines to calm any lingering spice.

Appears in:

The Best Restaurants in Melbourne for 2023