The popular Chinese restaurant chain Hai Di Lao Hot Pot is making its San Diego debut in La Jolla’s University Town Center (UTC). This news comes in the wake of What Now San Diego’s reporting on Qin West Noodle’s entry into the same complex, adding yet another lauded Chinese chain to the UTC roster.
Hai Di Lao’s entrance is set for August 2021, according to the Westfield UTC website. While the details have yet to be announced, the Hai Di Lao experience typically involves live entertainment and a “noodle dance” performance.
Chinese hot pot revolves around the immersive experience in which customers can cook their own dishes in house-made broths. Vegetarian guests will be able to order tomato or mushroom broth with tofu and fresh produce.
Other combinations include a spicy Sichuan pepper base, alongside grass-fed lamb or fatty beef slices.
Since opening in Sichuan Province over 25 years ago, the brand has taken off across the world, establishing itself in nearly 1,000 locations across 11 countries. Now, Hai Di Lao will be making its entrance into the San Diego market between UTC’s Zara and Aldo shops.
Hai Di Lao (海底捞), literally “deep sea fishing,” comes from the game Mahjong, in which the term signifies having remarkably good fortune.
