Clarissa Wei
Hot pot is, well, hot in Los Angeles — in part because of how convenient and healthy it is. It's a DIY affair, where patrons boil their own ingredients in a pot tableside. Mokkoji, with locations in Arcadia and Irvine, sets itself apart from the crowd with its high-quality selection of meat and vegetables. Everything is mindfully sourced, and the menu rotates based on seasonality and availability. Wagyu comes from San Luis Obispo, California, and the silky pork belly from Smithfield, North Carolina. Diners choose a protein and a broth — we recommend the beef toro paired with sukiyaki broth (salty and a little sweet, like a thin teriyaki) for first-timers. For a reasonable dollar extra, they'll make porridge for you at the end of the meal from your leftover broth.
Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.