Hotpot is one of the most satisfying ways to enjoy a flavorful, communal meal—but with premium broths, endless ingredients, and DIY sauces, it can quickly become a pricey indulgence. Fortunately, there are practical ways to enjoy hotpot without draining your wallet. Whether you’re dining out with friends or feeding a family, these tips will help you get the most out of your hotpot experience while keeping your costs low.

1. Choose All-You-Can-Eat Hotpot Wisely
   Many restaurants offer AYCE (all-you-can-eat) options with time limits, typically around 90–120 minutes. While these can be great value, you need to pace yourself and order smart. Avoid filling up on carbs or processed items early on. Instead, focus on proteins, seafood, and vegetables that offer the most nutritional and monetary value.

Check reviews on sites like Yelp or The Infatuation to find local hotpot spots with the best AYCE deals.

2. Look for Lunch Specials or Weekday Discounts
   Many hotpot restaurants offer cheaper set menus or combo deals during lunch hours or on weekdays. These options typically include a broth, a set of proteins, vegetables, and noodles—making them perfect for solo diners or small groups. Check the restaurant’s website or Google Maps listing for current promotions.
3. Split Broth Bases and Share Ingredients
   Rather than ordering multiple pots or broths, choose a dual-sided or quad broth pot. This allows everyone at the table to try different flavor profiles without paying for multiple individual servings. Sharing ingredients across the table also reduces waste and costs.
4. Skip the Upsell Items
   Premium wagyu, large seafood platters, and exotic mushrooms can add up quickly. Instead, choose versatile staples like tofu, napa cabbage, enoki mushrooms, and thinly sliced beef or lamb. These absorb broth flavors well and offer great texture at lower cost.
5. Earn Cashback with Gift Cards
   You can earn cashback at Haidilao or other popular hotpot chains by purchasing a gift card from Fluz. Fluz lets you buy digital gift cards for the exact amount you’ll spend, and rewards you instantly at checkout. It’s one of the easiest ways to save money at the register without changing your order.
6. Use Cashback Apps for Restaurant Visits
   Platforms like Rakuten and Ibotta sometimes offer restaurant-related cashback, especially when using linked credit cards or app-based purchases. While availability varies, these apps can help offset your dining bill when paired with gift cards or loyalty programs.
7. Join Loyalty or Rewards Programs
   Some hotpot chains, like Boiling Point, have their own apps or rewards programs where you can earn points on each visit. Be sure to sign up and redeem those points for future meals or freebies.
8. Host Hotpot at Home as a Budget Alternative
   Hosting hotpot at home gives you full control over ingredients and portion sizes. Purchase soup bases, sliced meats, and fresh produce from local Asian grocers like H Mart or 99 Ranch Market, and you’ll easily cut your total costs by half compared to dining out.
9. BYOB to Save on Drinks
   If the restaurant allows, bring your own beverages rather than ordering marked-up teas, beers, or juices. Always call ahead to confirm BYOB policies or corkage fees.
10. Don’t Forget the Leftovers
    Hotpot meals often come with generous ingredient trays. Ask for a container to take home any uncooked items—especially vegetables or noodles. Many restaurants allow this if you’ve ordered à la carte.

Get More from Every Meal
Hotpot should be about flavor, not financial stress. Whether you’re maximizing restaurant specials, using cashback apps, or grabbing digital gift cards through Fluz, there are plenty of ways to keep your budget in check while still enjoying a satisfying and social dining experience.