London, UK - In a bustling corner of Piccadilly Circus, the captivating aromas of authentic Chinese cuisine filled the air as I stepped into Haidilao, China's renowned hot pot chain, which has made its mark on the Western culinary scene. 

My recent visit to the London branch unveiled a world of flavors and communal dining that transcends borders, taking me on a captivating journey of taste and tradition.

Before indulging in the hot pot feast, I found myself in the delightful company of Vivi, a talented nail technician. As I waited for a table, Vivi offered a unique experience by pampering my little fingers with a fresh coat of nail polish. Opting for orange to match my vibrant scarf and green to complement my suit, Vivi skillfully transformed my nails into colorful accents. To my surprise, she even remarked that my nails 'were in better condition than most ladies who frequent the establishment.’

At Haidilao, an extensive and ever-evolving menu awaited adventurous diners like me. From premium cuts of meat to an array of fresh fish, vibrant vegetables, and daring choices like tripe, tongue, and chicken feet, the restaurant catered to all palates. The sheer variety of ingredients was enough to make my head spin with excitement.

As I sat at the table, I was presented with raw ingredients, encouraging me to cook my own food directly. It was a chance for my culinary prowess to be put to the test as I carefully selected the appropriate cooking time for each delicacy. The attentive waitstaff were ever-present, ready to lend a helping hand and guide me through this gastronomic journey.

As the first bites of carefully cooked morsels met my palate, the true essence of hot pot came to life. It was a sensory explosion of flavors, combining the delicate interplay of spices, herbs, and broth with the freshness of the ingredients. I discovered that the Mongol empire played a pivotal role in popularizing hot pot, as horsemen gathered around a fire, using their helmets as makeshift pots to simmer broth while roasting lamb and horse meat. The imagery evoked a sense of ancient majesty.

However, the surprises didn't end with the sizzling pots and delectable broths. In a moment of whimsy, a twirling rope materialized, destined for the bubbling hot pot. This unexpected addition, embodying the restaurant's flair for theatrics, added a touch of magic to the dining experience.

And then, the spotlight fell on the star of the show – the chicken foot. As skepticism gave way to curiosity, I took the plunge. Surprisingly, the chicken foot wasn't as bad as I expected. Its jelly-like texture offered a unique experience, but it was the knuckle nestled within the foot that brought a slightly peculiar element to the dish. The flavors unfolded like a symphony, straying from the anticipated poultry taste. However, I must admit, I doubt I would order it again.

To culminate this captivating experience, Haidilao treated its patrons to traditional Chinese entertainment. The noodle dance enthralled onlookers as skilled performers twirled and stretched dough, creating mesmerizing displays of culinary artistry. This spectacle was followed by the captivating face-changing dance, known as Bian Lian, where vibrant colors, energetic music, and highly skilled face-shifters combined to create a truly awe-inspiring performance.

In conclusion, I warmly recommend the Haidilao hot pot experience to all those seeking a remarkable dining adventure. With its rich history, communal atmosphere, tantalizing flavors, and even the chance for a pre-meal nail pampering, hot pot transcends cultural boundaries and opens up a world of culinary exploration.

Embark on your own hot pot odyssey at Haidilao, and let the magic of this ancient tradition transport you to a realm of taste and togetherness.

Video by Tom Triebel, Presented by Butchy Davy, CGTN Europe.