This Sichuanese hotpot restaurant is all about service, and the assault begins the minute you walk in the door. Pre-dining options include shoeshines, manicures and trays of nuts or fresh fruit; once you’ve actually sat down, the buzz of activity continues with the donning of matching red aprons and a YouTube-worthy noodle-stretching dance performance (order lāo miàn, 捞面).
Hǎi Dǐ Lāo sets the standard for sauce bars across the country – make sure your table has enough bowls to fully appreciate the range of flavours available. While it’s great for group meals, this is definitely not a place to dine alone or to go on a date.
