#FOOD: “SHU KINGDOM GENERAL HOT POT” | 巴蜀大将

In just over six years, SHU KINGDOM HOTPOT have experienced exponential success, opening 150 locations in 60+ cities across China. Just earlier this year, they opened their first ever North American branch right here in Scarborough, and are ready to win the hearts of Hotpot-loving Canadians. And there are many, believe me!

Hotpot is one of my favourite things. I love the communal experience of gathering around the pot with family and friends, having casual conversations and getting a full belly. If you’ve never had it before, think Korean BBQ… sorta. But Hotpot is soup-based instead of grilled. You take a variety of ingredients like meats, vegetables and a variety of accoutrements, which you cook them in a fondue-like manner. Typically, the soup base is numbingly-spicy, but there are mild options for those who can’t take the heat. Hotpot is a favourite in cooler months, but loved year-round.

SHU KINGDOM GENERAL HOTPOT boasts a high-grade selection of meats, including Sliced Ribeye and Chuck Eye. What makes them stand-out is their opulent, romantic presentation. Their Ribeye alone tops more than 1 million orders a year in China alone! And we get it. Their beef is so succulent and tender. Skewered delicacies are bundled into special Bashu Combo platters, which are part of the order including shrimp, aorta, tripe, gizzards and kidneys.

As the menu is A la Carte, you get a higher-grade of meats than you would an an All You Can Eat-type Hotpot establishment. We love that for those who want to try different soup types and we chose a Regular Spicy Soup which was just right, plus a mild Pork Bone Soup. As the food here is inspired by the flavours of Sichuan province (Chengdu specifically), it is only fitting the that they bring the fire Sichuan cuisine is known for!

The decor even at this space is stunning. The bright, red lantern-lit space pays homage to Bashu Culture, just like its menu. The culture has a long history of over 3000 years, claimed to be one of the cradles of modern Chinese. The restaurant uses the legendary tale “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” as a point of reference in its aesthetic. This truly is an experience!

The venue is spacious and seating is comfortable with many private booths and VIP Rooms. The Menus is mindful even, giving cooking time recommendations for each ingredient. Overcooking your meats can drastically alter your enjoyment and experience, showing their attention to detail. Above all this, we’ve never seen this level of presentation in food at a Hotpot ever. Simply dynamic, and never to be forgotten!

See some highlights from our experience at SHU KINGDOM GENERAL HOTPOT:

What an amazing, ambient and satisfying time!

SHU KINGDOM HOTPOT is located at 390 Silver Star Blvd in Scarborough, and are open 12 PM-11 PM daily. Menu is available for Pickup and Dine-In. If you’re dining in groups, they have promotions on right now!

Can you high-kick? Look for this sign at the door to kick for a free add-on and up to 30% off!

Visit https://shukingdomgeneral.ca for more.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)