Had an amazing experience celebrating here for a friends birthday! The quality of food was so YUMMY and FRESH! On top of the food being on point, the staff was amazing as well! 10/10 would recommend!!!
Katherine Hernandez
Hands down one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in a long time. A solid, resounding 10 out of 10.
I came here to celebrate my friend’s birthday, and from the second I walked through the door, I knew we were in for something special. You know how sometimes you just know a place is going to be amazing? That was the vibe instantly. The scent alone—rich, savory, absolutely mouthwatering—hit me like a warm, cozy hug. It was all I could do not to skip the table and dive straight into a bowl.
There’s this charming little selfie area near the entrance that gives the place a playful, modern touch, and though we lucked out with no wait (shocking!), it’s clear this is a popular spot for a reason. There’s a kiosk right as you walk in where you can easily hop on the waitlist—which honestly is always a good sign. Good restaurants are rarely empty.
The space itself is so smartly designed—guests are seated in a large oval bar that wraps around the heart of the action. Inside that oval? The most attentive, cheerful, and helpful staff. It really makes the whole thing feel communal, interactive, and alive. I love when a restaurant feels like more than just a place to eat—it feels like an experience.
If you’ve never had shabu shabu before, get ready. It’s interactive, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. You pick your soup base (so many mouthwatering options), and then cook your own proteins, veggies, and noodles at your table. It’s like the dinner version of a choose-your-own-adventure book. And if that sounds even a little intimidating—don’t worry. The menu walks you through everything in an easy step-by-step format, and the staff genuinely seem excited to guide you if you need help.
The flavors? Unreal. Everything was fresh, vibrant, and deeply flavorful. I’m talking full-on flavor fireworks with every bite. It’s honestly one of those rare meals where I didn’t just enjoy the food—I remembered it. The broth alone had me plotting my return before I even finished my bowl. We topped it all off with mochi ice cream for dessert.
And let me just take a second to shout out the service—because wow. Our server struck that perfect balance: always around when you needed something, but never hovering. They anticipated needs without interrupting the vibe of the celebration, which I so appreciate.
Oh, and let’s not forget the location. Nestled right in the heart of the Orange Circle—a magical little pocket of time where historic brick buildings, quirky antique shops, and local boutiques transport you to another era—it’s the perfect spot for a date night, a group dinner, or just treating yourself to something special.
I genuinely can’t say enough good things about this place. It’s got personality, flavor, and heart. If you’re thinking about going—go. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just hungry on a Tuesday night, this spot delivers. Already planning my next visit (and next selfie in that front area).
Lynn Greene
My new favorite Shabu spot. Reasonable prices and gress fed beef options.
K Le
We came here for dinner after making candles and doing a wine tasting at Wine & Wax. Minimal wait time with plenty of seating (Friday at 6pm). Good shabu, big portions. I think they have a lower table in the back that I saw for those in wheelchairs or those that can sit into the high bar stools. Not too loud inside either. Good service.
Shannon Gallagher
First time at a hot pot restaurant. It was a great experience. The staff was helpful and enjoyable. The food was delicious. I would definitely go again.
Mark Quimbo
The concept is nice and intriguing where the customers sit around a U shaped bar and enjoy their Shabu food. I got the Tonkotsu broth and it was delicious with full of flavor. My gf got the Spicy Miso and unfortunately it did not have a lot of flavor. It only had the spice and kick but n other flavor. The meat and presentation was nice and was given in orderly manner. We came in later at night and they ran out of the Ramen and the Carb Free noodle so go early if you can. Our waitress was nice. It was interesting to see her interacting with 2 customers only and drinking with them. It was funny and interesting to hear their conversation. The waitress was the loudest of all customers. Maybe she was the manager. Overall, get tonkotsu broth. It was delicious
Aeron Zentner
This place is great for dates but gets really busy. The artwork is cool and the music is pretty decent. The service is mostly good but the last few times we were there we had to ask more than once to receive the basic items that we typically would anticipate getting.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: XL Meat Hot Pot, XL Angus and Chuck
Tobi West
Love the fresh food!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: XL Meat Hot Pot, Edamame, Chicken Veggie Dumplings
Nicole Du
Favorite shabu shabu spot in OC! great food and attentive service. The meat, noodles and veggie selections are always fresh and the broth always hit. The staff and service here is top teir and the atmosphere is so fun!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Reserve Short Rib, Wagyu Short Rib, Edamame, XL Angus and Chuck, Spicy Miso Soup, Chicken Veggie Dumplings, Cucumber Salad
Phi Tran
Food is great and service is top notch. Would definitely recommend to all and will be returning
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: XL Angus and Chuck, Spicy Miso Soup
Tabu Shabu is an absolute gem! From the moment I stepped in, I was captivated by the cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff. The concept of cooking your own meat and vegetables in a simmering broth is both fun and incredibly satisfying.
It is such a great place, food was delicious, excellent service and atmosphere. Despite the extra charge for broth and noddles. It is worth the price.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ricky Contreras
This is one of my favorite places to have dinner with my wife. The atmosphere is fun. The servers are friendly and fast. The food is always great. Mixing the broths into different combinations keeps it feeling new every time. Come early as it can get crowded.
Super BOMB! The food was simply amazing, bursting with flavor and freshness. The atmosphere was modern and inviting, setting the perfect vibe for our dining experience. The customer service was top-notch, making us feel welcomed and valued throughout our visit. Can't wait to come back for more! Highly recommend this gem of a shabu spot.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kiran S
Tabu Shabu in Orange County is seriously a foodie's dream come true. The flavors are just out of this world, especially the marinated chicken – it's like a burst of deliciousness in every bite. And oh boy, the variety of meat options they have is just incredible! You'll be spoiled for choice.The vibe in there is awesome too, with lively music setting the perfect mood. Plus, the staff are super friendly and on the ball with their service. Oh, and those kale noodles? Trust me, they're surprisingly tasty! If you're in Orange County and looking for a spot with amazing food, cool vibes, and great service, Tabu Shabu is where it's at!
Had an amazing experience celebrating here for a friends birthday! The quality of food was so YUMMY and FRESH! On top of the food being on point, the staff was amazing as well! 10/10 would recommend!!!
Hands down one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in a long time. A solid, resounding 10 out of 10.
I came here to celebrate my friend’s birthday, and from the second I walked through the door, I knew we were in for something special. You know how sometimes you just know a place is going to be amazing? That was the vibe instantly. The scent alone—rich, savory, absolutely mouthwatering—hit me like a warm, cozy hug. It was all I could do not to skip the table and dive straight into a bowl.
There’s this charming little selfie area near the entrance that gives the place a playful, modern touch, and though we lucked out with no wait (shocking!), it’s clear this is a popular spot for a reason. There’s a kiosk right as you walk in where you can easily hop on the waitlist—which honestly is always a good sign. Good restaurants are rarely empty.
The space itself is so smartly designed—guests are seated in a large oval bar that wraps around the heart of the action. Inside that oval? The most attentive, cheerful, and helpful staff. It really makes the whole thing feel communal, interactive, and alive. I love when a restaurant feels like more than just a place to eat—it feels like an experience.
If you’ve never had shabu shabu before, get ready. It’s interactive, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. You pick your soup base (so many mouthwatering options), and then cook your own proteins, veggies, and noodles at your table. It’s like the dinner version of a choose-your-own-adventure book. And if that sounds even a little intimidating—don’t worry. The menu walks you through everything in an easy step-by-step format, and the staff genuinely seem excited to guide you if you need help.
The flavors? Unreal. Everything was fresh, vibrant, and deeply flavorful. I’m talking full-on flavor fireworks with every bite. It’s honestly one of those rare meals where I didn’t just enjoy the food—I remembered it. The broth alone had me plotting my return before I even finished my bowl. We topped it all off with mochi ice cream for dessert.
And let me just take a second to shout out the service—because wow. Our server struck that perfect balance: always around when you needed something, but never hovering. They anticipated needs without interrupting the vibe of the celebration, which I so appreciate.
Oh, and let’s not forget the location. Nestled right in the heart of the Orange Circle—a magical little pocket of time where historic brick buildings, quirky antique shops, and local boutiques transport you to another era—it’s the perfect spot for a date night, a group dinner, or just treating yourself to something special.
I genuinely can’t say enough good things about this place. It’s got personality, flavor, and heart. If you’re thinking about going—go. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just hungry on a Tuesday night, this spot delivers. Already planning my next visit (and next selfie in that front area).
My new favorite Shabu spot. Reasonable prices and gress fed beef options.
We came here for dinner after making candles and doing a wine tasting at Wine & Wax. Minimal wait time with plenty of seating (Friday at 6pm). Good shabu, big portions. I think they have a lower table in the back that I saw for those in wheelchairs or those that can sit into the high bar stools. Not too loud inside either. Good service.
First time at a hot pot restaurant. It was a great experience. The staff was helpful and enjoyable. The food was delicious. I would definitely go again.
The concept is nice and intriguing where the customers sit around a U shaped bar and enjoy their Shabu food. I got the Tonkotsu broth and it was delicious with full of flavor. My gf got the Spicy Miso and unfortunately it did not have a lot of flavor. It only had the spice and kick but n other flavor. The meat and presentation was nice and was given in orderly manner. We came in later at night and they ran out of the Ramen and the Carb Free noodle so go early if you can. Our waitress was nice. It was interesting to see her interacting with 2 customers only and drinking with them. It was funny and interesting to hear their conversation. The waitress was the loudest of all customers. Maybe she was the manager. Overall, get tonkotsu broth. It was delicious
This place is great for dates but gets really busy. The artwork is cool and the music is pretty decent. The service is mostly good but the last few times we were there we had to ask more than once to receive the basic items that we typically would anticipate getting.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: XL Meat Hot Pot, XL Angus and Chuck
Love the fresh food!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: XL Meat Hot Pot, Edamame, Chicken Veggie Dumplings
Favorite shabu shabu spot in OC! great food and attentive service. The meat, noodles and veggie selections are always fresh and the broth always hit. The staff and service here is top teir and the atmosphere is so fun!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Reserve Short Rib, Wagyu Short Rib, Edamame, XL Angus and Chuck, Spicy Miso Soup, Chicken Veggie Dumplings, Cucumber Salad
Food is great and service is top notch. Would definitely recommend to all and will be returning
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: XL Angus and Chuck, Spicy Miso Soup
Restaurantji Recommends
Tabu Shabu is an absolute gem! From the moment I stepped in, I was captivated by the cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff. The concept of cooking your own meat and vegetables in a simmering broth is both fun and incredibly satisfying.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Spicy Miso Paste, Spicy Miso Soup, Wagyu
It is such a great place, food was delicious, excellent service and atmosphere. Despite the extra charge for broth and noddles. It is worth the price.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is one of my favorite places to have dinner with my wife. The atmosphere is fun. The servers are friendly and fast. The food is always great. Mixing the broths into different combinations keeps it feeling new every time. Come early as it can get crowded.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Crunchy Garlic Edamame, Spicy Miso Soup, Chicken Veggie Dumplings, Cucumber Salad, Pasteurized Egg
Super BOMB! The food was simply amazing, bursting with flavor and freshness. The atmosphere was modern and inviting, setting the perfect vibe for our dining experience. The customer service was top-notch, making us feel welcomed and valued throughout our visit. Can't wait to come back for more! Highly recommend this gem of a shabu spot.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tabu Shabu in Orange County is seriously a foodie's dream come true. The flavors are just out of this world, especially the marinated chicken – it's like a burst of deliciousness in every bite. And oh boy, the variety of meat options they have is just incredible! You'll be spoiled for choice.The vibe in there is awesome too, with lively music setting the perfect mood. Plus, the staff are super friendly and on the ball with their service. Oh, and those kale noodles? Trust me, they're surprisingly tasty! If you're in Orange County and looking for a spot with amazing food, cool vibes, and great service, Tabu Shabu is where it's at!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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