Joy G.
Yelp
Is it the best shabu shabu/hot pot experience I've ever had? No - that honor goes to Hai Di Lao in China, where you get a free manicure and loads of snacks in advance. But Spring Shabux2 is a great deal for the area, especially if, like me, you're more into fish balls and veggies and noodles than meat. It's a flat rate and buffet style, so you can eat to your heart's desire, and it's a particularly good deal for large groups/families, since there's usually something there for everyone.
I loved the buffet of veggies, fish balls, mushrooms, tofu, noodles and rice. So many different kinds of veggies! The variety is another selling point. As is the sauce bar - I have no idea whether what I'm mixing will turn out good or not, but I went with sha cha, peanut sauce, sesame sauce, and chili oil, with loads of scallions and cilantro. Everything was very clean and fresh. My favorite was the fish ball with roe inside. For once, the protein a la carte options play second fiddle to the incredible buffet spread.
Don't forget the green tea soft serve afterwards!
My one tip is to go on a weekday night (and on the early side). Our group of 3 went around 5:45 and didn't have to wait, though when we left at 7:30, there was already a line. The weekends are bananas. Also, they won't seat you until your whole party is here so don't be the annoying friend who claims to have left already when you're still sitting at home.
PARKING: Spring shares the lot with PetCo, just be mindful of not parking somewhere that's specifically designated. If that lot is full, you can always use the enormous Star Market lot.