Natasha L.
Yelp
Umi Hotpot Seafood & Sushi Buffet has several locations. This is the second location I have visited and it is worth the visit - just know what to expect. So, I've been to this specific Staten Island location twice now, back to back days, and it's time to share my experience. It's an all you can eat buffet with a hot pot twist - all included in the price.
First, the aesthetic is beautiful (make sure to look up in the dining area). The place is clean, and they do a solid job restocking food trays when they run low, which at a buffet is a huge win. Now here's where things get a little mixed. My first visit? Fantastic. Tons of variety, the food was fresh, and everything I wanted was available. The next day though... different story. Some of the dishes I enjoyed weren't out at all, and when I asked, I was told they ran out and were replaced with fruit (yes, fruit!). Same thing with a couple of drink options. That was disappointing, especially so soon after such a great experience. That said, the food that was available was still very good. The bubble tea was surprisingly good, not watered down like another Umi location I previously visited, and yes, it is included in the buffet price (along with the sodas). It's a great value for what you're paying.
Tip: you must request the hot pot as soon as you're seated - it's not automatically set up or given to you upon arrival. Once you do, everyone at the table gets their own personal pot (per request), and you choose your broth (four options to choose from). Then it's up to you to head to the fridge and grab full plates of meats, seafood, noodles, veggies, whatever you want and get cooking. You're given two hours to enjoy everything, which is plenty of time to pace yourself, go back for seconds ( or thirds), and even try the seafood boil, lobster arms, frog legs or the traditional Fijian dish they have. Oh, and save room for dessert and ice cream.
Overall, I left full and satisfied both times. The inconsistency of menu offerings knocked it down a star for me, but if you catch them on a good day, it's seriously a satisfying buffet dining experience.