I'm a Shabu Shabu newbie.
The husband and I went here on a date night last Friday.
Since I didn't pay any attention to the time, I didn't realize how early it was.
We had the place to ourselves for the first half hour... it was quiet, it was relaxing, it was what I needed after a hectic week.
Now... had we not ordered 2 pitchers of beer... this would have been a very healthy dinner. All the veggies and meats were fresh. Nothing drenched in oil or butter or salt. Plus, the veggies are all you can eat so that's good... because it promotes filling up on their fresh veggies which is good.
The Shabu Shabu is basically just water... so you heat/boil your dinner. It's pretty bland and you need the 3 dipping sauces to add some 'zest'. (Next time we're going to do the Sukiyaki as that seems to have more flavor.)
What I really liked is this style of eating is pretty darn "clean"... meaning fresh, simple and slower. You take the time to cook your food and by doing so... it forces you to slow down. So, if you're starving and need to eat within a few minutes... don't go here. If you have time and you want to have a relaxing dinner... head to Shabu Shabu for a nice, relaxing meal.
We had 2 appetizers... I ordered a Queen and the hubby ordered the King.... It's not cheap... but it's not break the bank.... and you leave full. Minus the 2 pitchers of beer... I think our bill was $35pp including tax and tip.
If you haven't tried this type of restaurant... I would suggest it... you might be surprised and it might be a good way to relax. I know it was for me.