My 5 Favorite Hot Pot Restaurants In Da Lat, Vietnam
As a dedicated fan of hot pots, there’s nothing that brings me more joy than the comforting blend of rich broths and a kaleidoscope of fresh ingredients. When the cool Da Lat nights start to creep in, you’ll typically find me tucked away in a cozy corner of a hot pot restaurant, savoring the warmth of the simmering soup and the inviting camaraderie that only a hot pot meal can bring.
In this article, I’d love to share my favorite hot pot restaurants in Da Lat that I usually go to.
Leguda – The Vegetable Buffet Hot Pot Gem
- Address: 1st Floor Cable Car Resort, Robin Hill, Da Lat
- Opening hours: 10 am – 9 pm
Da Lat, with its abundance of fresh produce, is an oasis for vegetarian food lovers. The joy of enjoying a hot pot filled with this local deliciousness is unparalleled, and my top pick is Leguda Buffet Rau.
Perched near the Da Lat cable car station, Leguda offers not only organic veggies but also stunning city views. Over 20 types of vegetables, including crunchy bok choy, zesty spinach, and vibrant lettuce, are harvested locally and delivered straight to your hot pot.
The cost won’t make your wallet whimper either. A budget-friendly ($3) will grant you access to a standard buffet, featuring a mixed salad, steamed fruits, vermicelli, egg noodles, and a complimentary artichoke tea.
Diners are served a 2-compartment hot pot, a nutritional soup on one side for the health-conscious, and a sizzling, spicy satay hot pot on the other for spice enthusiasts.
Tao Ngo – For the love of Chicken Hot Pot with Basil Leaves
- Address: No. 5, 3/4 street, Da Lat, Lam Dong
- Opening hours: 8 am – 8 pm
Though not originally from Da Lat, the chicken hot pot with basil leaves, or Lẩu gà lá é, has become a beloved favorite in town. The harmonious blend of tart basil, sweet chicken, and spicy broth creates a flavor profile that will leave your tastebuds dancing.
The best part? If you happen to have a cold, this hot pot comes with its own natural remedy – basil, known for treating ailments like cough and cold.
Tao Ngo, a local favorite, was one of the first restaurants in Da Lat to serve this delectable dish. A hot pot serving for 2-4 people costs around 200,000 – 300,000 VND.
Ba Toa – Beef Hot Pot Haven
- Address: 1 Hoang Dieu Street, Ward 6, Da Lat
- Opening hours: 10 am – 9 pm
If you fancy a hearty beef hot pot, there’s no place like Ba Toa are. This bustling alley fills with several hotpot restaurants, each with enticing aromas of simmering broths, crafted from hearty beef bones and fresh vegetables. The meat, a perfect balance of lean and fatty cuts, is sure to satisfy any carnivorous cravings.
You can indulge in a beef hot pot for 200,000VND to 300,000VND, a fair price for a warming, stomach-filling delight.
Lau Ca tam Ngu Son – Sturgeon Hot Pot and More
- Address: 33/15 Phan Dinh Phung, Ward 2, Da Lat
- Opening hours: 11 am – 10 pm
Sturgeon farming has a long history in Da Lat, making the sturgeon hot pot a regional specialty that shines during the colder months.
The unique flavor of the sturgeon paired with the sweet and sour broth and local vegetables creates an exciting gastronomic experience.
Lau Ca Tam Ngu Son was a restaurant recommended to me by locals, and it quickly earned a spot on my favorites list. The staff was heartwarmingly welcoming, and the food was incredibly fresh and delicious.
Beyond the hotpot, they offer delicious sturgeon dishes including grilled sturgeon with herbs and roasted sturgeon with chili.
Eros – Great for Salmon hot pot
- Address: 24 Ba Thang Tu Street, Ward 3, Da Lat
- Opening hours: 8 am – 10 pm
In the chilly climes of Da Lat, a salmon hot pot is a comforting and delicious treat. This aromatic concoction blends sweet and sour broth, tender salmon fillet, pineapple, and tomatoes, served with rice noodles and fresh local vegetables like morning glory and cabbage.
My favorite destination for this dish is Eros, a popular spot among travelers. Besides hot pot, the restaurant boasts a tempting selection of salmon dishes, including delectable salmon sashimi, savory fried salmon with potato rolls, and a zingy spicy salmon hot pot.
Despite the somewhat steep prices, the quality of the fresh, tasty salmon and the overall dining experience is absolutely worth it.
Why is hotpot popular in Da Lat?
It’s popular in Da Lat due to the region’s cold weather, making it a perfect comfort meal, and the availability of a wide variety of fresh local ingredients.
Can you eat a vegetarian hot pot in Da Lat?
Absolutely! Da Lat is known for its fresh fruits and vegetables, and places like Leguda restaurant offer a variety of vegetarian hot pot options.
Is hot pot expensive in Da Lat?
The price range varies, but many restaurants offer hot pot at reasonable prices. For instance, at Leguda, a standard vegetable hot pot buffet costs around $3. More premium options, like a salmon hot pot at Eros Ca Hoi, can be a bit pricier.
Can hot pot meals accommodate large groups?
Absolutely. Hot pot meals are traditionally communal and perfect for large groups. However, it’s a good idea to call ahead and make a reservation for bigger parties, especially during peak dining hours.
Are there any health benefits to eating hot pot?
Hot pot can be very healthy depending on your choice of ingredients. It often includes plenty of vegetables and lean proteins. Some specific dishes like the Chicken Hot Pot with Basil Leaves from Tao Ngo are known for their cold-relieving properties, thanks to the medicinal benefits of basil.
Final thoughts
So above is my ultimate guide to the hot pot scene in Da Lat. These venues have given me countless memorable meals and experiences. Each time I’ve returned, I’ve been warmly welcomed, and each meal has been a comforting experience that feels like home.
