Zhangliang Malatang Chicago 张亮芝加哥

"Zhangliang Malatang is part of a Chinese chain that specializes in individual hot pot and dry pot, and it’s good for a quick and hearty meal in Chinatown. You start your build-your-own-bowl journey at refrigerated shelves full of proteins including cuts of beef, lamb, and fish balls, plus vegetables like bok choy, lotus root, and enoki. Armed with a plastic bowl, tongs, and your imagination, you can be as simple or as outlandish as you want (just know that the price is based on weight). After constructing your masterpiece, finish up by telling the staff at the counter whether you want everything in a broth (mushroom, pork, or tomato) or stir-fried in Sichuan spices. The end result might not be the top hot pot or dry pot in the neighborhood, but it’s still tasty enough for a comforting and convenient meal." - John Ringor

"If you want a quick bite or something to go, but still want hot pot, check out Zhangliang Malatang in Chinatown. This casual Chinese chain specializes in single-serving hot pot, in which everything is cooked in mushroom, pork, or tomato broth in one go before being served. Armed with a plastic bowl, tongs, and your imagination, you can go as plain or as outlandish as you want with their shelves full of bok choy, thin cuts of beef, and fishballs (just know that price is based on weight). Once you’re done building your masterpiece, hand it over to the staff, pick your broth, and your bowl should be ready in minutes." - adrian kane, john ringor