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Boiling Point in Edmond, WA: Bold Flavors Marred by Inconsistent Service
Boiling Point offers a unique dining experience with a menu full of bold, inventive flavors that clearly resonate with adventurous eaters. My family of seven first visited nearly a year ago, drawn in by rave reviews and the promise of dishes that truly pack a punch. That initial experience left us so impressed with the Taiwanese Spicy, Miso, Korean Bean Paste, and Thai Tomato bowls that we even invited out-of-state relatives to join us on our return.
Atmosphere and Seating
Upon entering, you’re immediately struck by the eatery’s compact layout. On our first visit, we were seated at an awkward table tucked into the narrowest corner near the restroom and kitchen entry—a less-than-ideal spot that sacrificed comfort for necessity. For our second visit, we secured a table right in front of the door, which in warmer weather could provide a breezy ambiance; however, in the chillier months, it can feel uncomfortably drafty. With limited seating options, large groups might find themselves cramped or relegated to less desirable spots.
The Food
The standout at Boiling Point is undoubtedly the food. The robust and memorable flavors made such an impression during our first visit that they became the primary reason for our return. On our latest trip, we ordered a mix of bowls—including a plain miso broth for a child with dietary needs—intending to share across our table. The portions themselves are generous, and on a busy day, our first visit even included a fun surprise: staff letting us know we could ask them to “put out the flame” under our dish at any time, ensuring safety without sacrificing flavor. Upon our second visit it wasnt until we were nearly finished that we were able to alert the fact we needed our flame put out.
Service and Communication
Where Boiling Point stumbles, however, is in service. Despite a seemingly large staff, it can be exceptionally challenging to get anyone’s attention after the initial order is taken. Our second visit was marked by repeated calls for assistance that went unheeded, whether it was for extra services or the missing bowl of plain miso broth for the child—a request we made multiple times over an hour. This issue isn’t isolated; even during our first experience, a drink we ordered wasn’t served until the bill arrived. The noisy environment—characterized by shuffling chairs on tile floors and music cranked high—further complicates communication, especially for diners with hearing difficulties.
Pricing Concerns
Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of our return visit was the unexpected pricing. When the bill arrived, we discovered that the child’s bowl of plain miso broth was charged at full plate price—$26. This was a stark contrast to our expectations where we would have anticipated a charge in the $10–$16 range, especially considering the simplicity of the dish. The lack of clear communication about pricing policies left us feeling blindsided and disappointed.
Final Thoughts
Boiling Point undeniably excels in delivering creative, flavor-packed dishes that have the power to draw you back for more. However, the dining experience is currently undermined by issues with seating logistics, slow and difficult-to-access service, and unclear pricing practices. For those willing to overlook these shortcomings in pursuit of an innovative culinary adventure, Boiling Point may be worth a try. Still, diners with large groups, sensitivity to noisy environments, or concerns about dietary needs and service consistency might want to plan accordingly or look elsewhere.