The Arcadia Chamber of Commerce’s monthly Love Lunch this week was served DIY-style at Hai Di Lao Hotpot, located on the Promenade at Westfield Santa Anita mall, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2015. Sponsored by The Law Offices of Hart, Mieras, and Morris, Inc., the lunch introduced 32 members to an interactive style of dining which encouraged them to individually cook flavorful cuts of meat and seafood in bubbling pots of savory broth in their own pot right in front of them at the table.
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As the American outpost of a popular Chinese chain, Hai Di Lao provides customers with an immersive, entertaining experience that inspired conversation among chamber members. The meal started with the manager Leo Liu presenting about the long-established history of hotpot in China and the variety of fresh and raw ingredients.
Daytime manager Leo was very accommodating in explaining the unique ordering and eating process to dozens of first-timers. Each diner chose their own broth, meat and vegetables, then seasoned their dish with a selection of sauces and toppings from a buffet of choices. Some chose light and healthy mushroom broth, while others enjoyed a rich tomato broth and still others picked a “mouth-numbingly” spicy broth. The meats and veggie options were endless, ranging from tender cuts of Rib-eye and beef short rib to handmade meatballs and fried tofu. There was even a dancing noodle performer, shaping thin noodles much like a chef tosses pizza dough! He then placed the noodles in the boiling mini-cauldon at the place-setting of Arcadia Chamber CEO Scott Hettrick.
The Love Lunches were created by the Chamber for members and prospective members who love lunch and love getting out of their homes or away from their offices for a chance to relax, meet some new people and network. Attendees are invited to come anytime between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at a different restaurant each time. You can order what you want, stay as long as you can, and pay individually.
The next Love Lunch will take place on November 24, 2015 due to the Thanksgiving holiday.
