The moment you enter, you are transported to a faraway destination that serves soupy concoctions packed with everything from noodles to beef intestines. Don't worry, you don't have to partake in the exotic ingredients.
Lunch specials start at $8.99 and come with your choice of hot pot and a soft drink or tea. With prices this low, there's no wonder the wait was long. We had to wait around 30 minutes and it was already past lunch time.
Since BP is known for its stinky tofu, we got a side of it along with beef hot pots. No intestines of pigs blood for us, thanks. We also got a side of pork, quail eggs and vermicelli. I wasn't sure if the noodles came with the hot pot and the waiter wasn't very good at communicating in English, so we just ordered it anyway. It's an extra 50 cents so not a big deal.
Hot pots come out boiling hot on an open flame. It's quite deceiving, but the pot is endless. I felt like I had to eat for a while before making a dent. The broth was spicy and we only asked for medium. But, it was good!
I didn't really care for the stinky tofu as it was kind of bland. They come in big cubes and aren't the typical fried ones you get at other places. The stink factor was very low. The meat was decent, but not the best quality. Quail eggs were awesome!
Make sure you get the sauces too. They are located by the cashier at a do-it-yourself station. Garlic soy and soybean paste were our favorites. The chili oil is extremely hot so beware. I had one taste and passed on it.
Service was okay considering how crazy packed it was. Our waiter was flustered, but managed to get us what we needed. Too bad they were out of boba and Chinese donuts! It was a bit disappointing since it wasn't even dinner yet.
Overall, a good place for hot pot lovers. But, make sure you're up for the wait. Also, cash only. Boo to that.
3***
Boiling Point
153 West Garvey Ave
Monterey Park, CA 91755
(626) 288-9876
