Today we went for my son's 12th birthday as he loves Hot Pot. The way we usually have our hot pot is picking up ingredients and handing them to be cocked and served to us. However at Panda Hot Pot is all done by yourself so it can be a bit intimidating. But let me tell, once We crossed the door we were assisted constantly by their amazing staff. A big shout for Reily, she was amazing walking us through the process and recommending portion sizes, different sides, drinks... She was amazing. The food was expensive but worth every dollar, delicious and fresh. Last but not least the restaurant decoration is mind blowing, is like stepping into a different world. We will be back... Not doubt about it.

I feel this place is a little bit overrated. This place offers free desserts and drinks if you give them a good review so take what you want. I think if I individually rated this place for the everyday person 3.5/5. Overall solid but abit rough around the edges. The place was near empty when we went for lunch today. They were very adamant we had a reservation and didn't even check in the end (we did have one and told) the server was generally polite and made good suggestions for the menu. Got the 99 dollar platter for two which was okay. I got the signature spicy brother which was overall okay. The partner go the beef broth which was also good. The sides were fresh and came out decently fast the fried rice I was overall average. Nothing really stood out food wise outside of the pork brother to be honest. The guy who was bringing out the food was abit moody and rude. Ordered my partner to move out the way to place the bowl which she did then barked again to move the bench, abit or courtesy doesn't hurt 🤷‍♂️ I'm british we don't want to get in the way buddy 🤣 The decor as everyone harps on about is very cool and over the top but why not.

The restaurant itself is wonderfully themed and feels great inside, the dragon at the entrance is so cool. The food itself for the price was lacking, we got a few options and all up it was about $240 for two people. I feel like we could have had a far nicer meal elsewhere for that price. I think if you went there in a group of 4 or more it would bring the price down per person.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Panda Hotpot in Carlton is such an experience! The moment you walk in and see the giant dragon hanging from the ceiling, you already know this place is something special. You can choose your own soup base and make your own sauce at the sauce station, which is a fun touch. The meat was incredibly fresh and tasted amazing cooked in the flavourful broth. There are also lots of other options to choose from, so everyone can find something they like. Portions are generous and perfect for sharing with friends. It even includes appetisers and fruit ice cream at the end, which was a nice surprise. It was my friends’ first time trying hotpot and they absolutely loved it. We’ll definitely be back!

I'll admit that when we first walked past the place, the thought that came to mind (focusing on the decor) was "Seriously?!" "I need a quote to the effect of 'go big or don't go at all!'" etc. But after noticing the high ratings, the Mrs and I gave in and gave it a shot. Was not disappointed. This is an excellent specimen of a modern Szechuan hotpot restaurant (and I live in a jurisdiction where such things are not hard to find). The food is fresh and portions reasonable. The broth is tasty (I commend the chicken and fish maw, if a non spicy option is needed). You pay once (per dinner) for unlimited condiments (I've seen wider selections but it's not shabby). There's free flow congee. There's free flow soft serve cream. The crockery is ceramic, not plastic. Friendly, competent staff. And yes, I still find the decor totally over the top: if you tell me they've been prevailed upon to be the set for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Further Adventures Down Under, I'll believe you for a few seconds. Anyway. Great experience. Would recommend!