Hotpot is one of the best group dining experiences around—everyone gathers around a bubbling pot, sharing ingredients and dipping sauces in a relaxed, social setting. But once the plates are cleared and the broth’s run dry, one big question remains: how do you split the bill fairly? With shared ingredients, varying appetites, and sometimes differing drink orders or add-ons, figuring out who owes what can get tricky. Here’s how to make it simple, smooth, and stress-free.
Why Bill Splitting at Hotpot Gets Complicated
Unlike a traditional meal where everyone orders separate dishes, hotpot is communal. Whether it’s à la carte or all-you-can-eat (AYCE), diners typically order ingredients to share, making it hard to track who consumed what. Add in extras like drinks, appetizers, desserts, or sauces, and it’s easy for things to get unbalanced.
- Choose the Right Pricing Model
Some restaurants charge a flat rate per person, while others tally ingredients individually. Understanding the pricing structure helps you plan a fair approach from the start.
- AYCE Hotpot (e.g., 99 Favor Taste, Happy Lamb): Everyone pays the same base price, so splitting evenly is fair—unless drinks or add-ons are involved.
- À la Carte Hotpot (e.g., The Dolar Shop, Haidilao): Order-based pricing means some people may contribute more or less depending on what they added to the pot.
- Use a Bill Splitting App
Apps like Splitwise, Settle Up, or Venmo make it easy to keep track of group expenses. You can input what each person ordered or how much they owe based on the final check and adjust for fairness. - Designate a Pay-First Friend
Have one person pay the bill and collect from others digitally. This keeps things quick at the table and reduces awkward delays. Make sure to confirm final totals and agree on the split in advance. - Account for Alcohol and Add-Ons Separately
If someone ordered a cocktail or extra dessert that others didn’t touch, it’s fair for them to cover those extras. Note any significant side dishes or non-shared drinks that shouldn’t be part of the even split. - Bring Cash or Use Digital Wallets
While cash is rarely used for entire bills these days, it can be helpful for rounding out balances or tipping. Alternatively, services like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and direct payment apps can settle balances quickly. - Use Gift Cards with Cashback to Offset the Total
Want to save the group some money before you even sit down? Buy a Haidilao gift card online through Fluz and use it at checkout to earn instant cashback. You can apply the gift card to the total and divide the savings among the group—or keep the rewards if you’re the one paying upfront. Fluz also offers gift cards to other participating hotpot spots. - Confirm Gratuity Policies in Advance
Some hotpot restaurants add an automatic gratuity for groups, often for parties of six or more. Be sure to check your receipt before tipping additional amounts. - Keep It Light
It’s easy for money talk to overshadow a fun night. Be open, fair, and clear—and avoid last-minute debates by setting expectations early in the meal.
Hotpot Harmony = Clear Communication + Smart Tools
Splitting the bill doesn’t need to ruin a great dinner. With the right strategy and tools—from bill-splitting apps to cashback rewards via Fluz—you can focus on what matters most: good food, good friends, and a perfectly cooked slice of beef dipped in chili oil.
