Little Lamb Hotpot Restaurant, Chicago

Whenever Debarshi and I plan a trip, we always look for best places to eat. They don’t always have to be super expensive. In fact, we prefer to go to local food joints because they symbolize a unique experience. This time we went to a Chinese/ Mongolian restaurant in Chicago named – Little Lamb Hotpot. 

So what is a hotpot? As you can see above, it is a large pot with a center divider. The two sections hold two different kinds of broth. You can choose between Original, Spicy or Half and Half. Obviously we went for the half and half because we wanted to taste both the broths. Now let me tell you, the broth will keep on cooking and reducing so after a while it will get thick. Unless you absolutely love spicy hot food or have the tolerance, do not go for the spicy broth. The broth is prepared with fresh ingredients and is quite aromatic. Believe me this was a totally new experience for us and we loved it.

Next you will choose the protein. They have everything sliced up so that as soon as you drop them in the broth, they cook up really fast. If you like seafood, you will enjoy it here because it is so fresh!

After that comes the vegetables and noodles. You will be given varieties of crisp vegetables to choose from. The Noodles are handmade and delicious.

Well, it was a terrific experience for both of us. We could see people in groups chatting and talking. The restaurant is family friendly. To tell you the truth, I am a novice at handling chopsticks. They keep slipping from my fingers. Here at Little Lamb they perfectly understand this trouble and keep forks and spoons right on the dining table for you. 

I think the whole concept of hot pot is so interesting. You order a hot pot and instantly your dining table converts into an induction burner. The pot is placed on this burner and the fun begins!

Now how to know the meat is cooked? For the thinly sliced meat, let it cook for 10-15 seconds and you will see the color changing. Be careful while eating them, they do not cool down immediately so you may burn your mouth. For the green vegetables, you may cook for 1-2 minutes. The longest time is taken by the noodles, dumplings, tofu, mushrooms, starchy vegetables, seafood, chicken thigh, meatballs & other proteins. They take 3-5 minutes and then another minute to cool down.

Now let’s see what all we ordered. I see some soft Tofu, Potato, Scallops, Premium Lamb Shoulder, Fresh Handmade Noodle and a Half & Half Pot.

For more flavor, you can get broth sauces from the sauce bar but be advised it will be charged extra. 

I think, this is a must go place for any foodie whose main purpose while travelling is to enjoy some good food. Ever wonder why we love listening to popcorn crackling in the microwave? Half of the fun in eating a food is by using all our senses! So, I would recommend the following steps:

See the ingredients before and after cooking them, this will help you to notice the change in texture. 

Smell the meats and vegetables, they are so fresh you will immediately feel the urge to eat them. 

Finally, don’t forget to devour the food once it has finished cooking in the hot pot. 

Bon Appetit!

Going to Chicago? Here are some more places you may consider visiting:

• Cindy's Rooftop, Chicago
• Alliance Patisserie – Chicago
• Athena Greek Restaurant, Chicago
• Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter, Chicago