Cain Friedman
Google
there are a few of these places in the area, but this is why you should make sure you go here! (My first visit)
The staff are very friendly and welcoming, I felt like I had been here a million times with the way they greeted me. They seemed a little surprised that I came in alone but made sure I was comfortable. The server was very sweet and she walked me through the process of ordering very quickly and efficiently and made a few suggestions that I tried out. With Hot pot restaurants you do get served very quickly, so that was expected, it stands out because the broth I got (pig bone) was not only presented adorably (bamboo shoot was tied in a little bow, so cute), but also so flavorful I actually FORGOT to get sauce to add to it.
The whole staff works together to make sure your pot doesn't overflow, that your pot is refilled when low, and they will even explain how make sure something is cooked correctly.
Another plus of Lan Ting is that if you do want to be a bit adventurous and try something new, there is no limit to what you can add. I got a few things I had never tried before and although they weren't all up my ally, I was glad to have the chance to try it out.
At the end (I ALMOST finished the huge portion I ordered) I was presented with a small milk/tapioca dessert to cool my mouth down and a stick of gum.
I was seated in the cute downstairs area, and they play music videos with a mix of Asian pop music and some American pop hits on the main TV. There are large tables and small tables so you can take a date/friend or your whole family. The cost is reasonable for all you can eat!
For me, this place is a few blocks further than a similar resturant, but it is definitely worth it, even in freezing cold weather. I wish I could eat here every single day!
BONUS: if you are a student you get a $2 discount, sadly this doesn't apply to me but still awesome.