"If you find yourself with a group that likes to be in control, M Pot is your place. This Sichuan spot in the Richmond prices its malatang—a street food dish similar to hot pot—by weight, and it’s completely customizable. You’ll receive a giant metal bowl and fill it with vegetables, meats, and noodles all displayed on a few shelves. After you make your picks, they’ll ask you for your preferred spice level (don’t be afraid to go for extra spicy), if you want beef or tomato broth, and then they’ll take it to the back. Soon, you’ll get a bubbling cauldron of stew—it might take a few visits to nail the perfect ratio, but as long as you fill it with ingredients you love, the broth will do the heavy lifting. Food Rundown photo credit: Ricky Rodriguez Malatang Priced by weight ($15.99 per pound) and with endless customizable options, this bowl of broth (which is the only thing on the menu) can be served any way you want. You can choose from four different spice levels, two different broths (beef bone or vegetarian tomato broth), and around 70 toppings like lotus root, bok choy, fried tofu, and thinly sliced pork belly. Just don’t load it up with too much meat or you’ll end up with a bowl of unbalanced grey sadness that drowns out any and all vegetables." - Ricky Rodriguez
