I haven't had much experience whne it comes to Shabu Shabu, but I know quality when I experience it. I have only been to Shabu Shabu Paradise in Henderson, so unfortunately I have no other basis for comparison.
I had just gotten the Groupon deal and decided that it was a healthy option that I wanted to try out for dinner.
When we got there, though, there were only 3 other tables occupied at about 5:30pm on a Friday.
The menu, though, was awesome--meats, meat sampler, seafood, and chicken. My boyfriend and I were hungry, so we each opted for the bigger/hungry size portions (8 oz. meat, roughly 15 slices). For those of you not too hungry, you may want to try the smaller/healthy size portion (6 oz. of meat, roughly 10 slices). You also get a variety of sides, along with white rice.
Unlike Shabu Shabu Paradise, the burner isn't built into the table, but is a portable unit where you get a bowl and some vegetables/tofu/noodles (sides) to cook. The type of broth, though, is where the cooking differs. For those of you that prefer less seasoning/plain eating, choose Shabu Shabu. If you like Soy Sauce, though, definitely go for the Sukiyaki. I opted for the Shabu Shabu, since I tend to like my food more on the plain side (sensitive stomach).
Also, they do give you more seasoning options, such as dipping sauces--peanut-based and ponzu, as well as other ingredients (garlic, scallions, chili sauce) to make an altogether different sauce.
Remember, if you get hungry, you can get refills of the veggies/tofu/noodles without paying extra, but will have to shell out more money otherwise.
I was so hungry/focused on the meats that I almost forgot about the veggies/noodles/tofu. Regardless, I enjoyed, and did NOT have to order anything extra. Granted, it's not the same as a buffet, but I did
like this healthy alternative.
The service was pretty good, and they made sure to come back regularly for refills and to check on our progress. I was afraid that I was annoying them because I kept accidentally turning off the propane a few times in the middle of cooking.
Overall, I enjoyed this experience, although I would rather have paid a little less...oh well.
I'll definitely be a repeat customer, especially since I have another Groupon to use :).