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Shoo Loong Kan Hot Pot Manhattan 小龙坎火锅BWorth Trying
22 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
· Chinese restaurant, Hot pot restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (1195 reviews)
Reservations
High-energy Sichuan hot pot near Union Square with rich broths and fresh meats; value is fair-to-good but watch service consistency, added sauce fees, and occasional cleanliness concerns.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Shoo Loong Kan delivers exceptional food quality with rich, authentic Sichuan broths and fresh premium ingredients that justify its reputation among hot pot enthusiasts. However, inconsistent execution across visits—including isolated food safety complaints and variable service reliability—prevents a higher grade, while cramped seating during peak hours limits the dining experience. The restaurant excels at what it does, but reliability concerns and operational inconsistencies keep it in solid neighborhood restaurant territory rather than destination status.
Restaurant Summary
A lively Sichuan hot pot spot near Union Square, this room feels warm and bustling with staff circulating to refill broths and clear plates. Diners rave about the depth of the chili base and the tidy, well-portioned meats. Still, many describe service as attentive and kind, especially for first-timers. The culinary approach leans traditional Sichuan hot pot with premium ingredients—think offal specialties, wagyu add-ons, and classic tomato or pork rib broths—so expect bold, peppercorn-forward heat over fusion theatrics. Spice runs hot; start mild and build up. Value tracks with quality and location, more than AYCE but reasonable for fresh cuts and rich broth. Families can make it work with tomato or mushroom broth, rice, tofu skins, and the mushroom platter, but the menu skews adventurous. There is no explicit kids menu noted, and the sauce bar can add fees. For picky eaters, choose gentler broths and simple meats, or consider alternatives with more basic options.
At a Glance
- Deep, flavorful Sichuan broths with notably fresh meats and vegetables
- Solo-friendly mini pots and supportive staff for first-timers
- Inconsistent service/cleanliness reports and occasional food safety complaints
- Added fees (sauce bar, dessert rules) can surprise
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- rich_sichuan_chili_broth
- solo_mini_pot_option
- extensive_sauce_bar
What People Love
- Rich chili and balanced tomato broths
- Fresh, well-marbled beef and varied veg
- Helpful guidance on spice and sauces
- Lively vibe near Union Square
Points of Concern
- A few credible reports of spoiled seafood or stomach issues; treat as isolated but serious
- Service swings from attentive to curt; end-of-meal rushes noted
- Fee transparency: sauce bar per-person charge and dessert limits surprise some
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (uniform praise tone, templated replies) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- For innovation 7+ restaurants: ALERT: Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$55-75 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Mushroom or tomato broth with tofu skin, mushroom platter, lotus root, spinach
- Heat-sensitive diners: Tomato or pork rib broth; build spice via sauces
- Value: Premium Beef Slices over A5 wagyu; add rice and 1-2 veggies
Perfect For
- Cold-weather group dinners that linger over broth
- Hot pot enthusiasts seeking real Sichuan heat
- Solo diners wanting a comfortable, guided experience
- Celebrations where interactive cooking adds fun
Location Insights
Area: Busy, student-and-office mix near Union Square with strong foot traffic and late-evening dining energy.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with steady pedestrian presence; occasional urban wear typical of central Manhattan.
Nearby: Near Union Square Park, NYU buildings, retail corridors, and subway hub; strong pre/post-shopping dining appeal.
East VillageThe East Village is known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining scene featuring everything from casual eateries to trendy restaurants, and a bohemian, artistic atmosphere. It attracts a youthful crowd interested in innovative cuisine, live music, and cultural experiences.
St. Mark's PlaceSt. Mark's Place is a lively stretch within the East Village famous for its quirky shops, casual dining spots, and a youthful, energetic vibe. It is a hub for affordable and diverse food options, often with a countercultural edge.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–21:30
Tuesday11:30–21:30
Wednesday11:30–21:30
Thursday11:30–21:30
Friday11:30–22:30
Saturday11:30–22:30
Sunday11:30–21:30
Available: Reservations
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