Wildly Popular International Hot Pot Chain Is Coming to Bellevue

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Crowded hot pot scene gets an exciting new addition

Seattle’s hot pot mania continues, as the popular China-based chain Hai Di Lao is planning on opening a location in Bellevue, its second in-the-works outpost for the area (the first will be coming to Pacific Place this winter). The new spot will be located at Bellevue Pacific Center (188 106th Avenue Northeast), according to a recently-filed permit. Hai Di Lao — which earned its place on Eater LA’s Essential Chinese Restaurants — is known for its rich broths, extensive dipping options, and entertaining table-side service, which includes staffers dancing with hand-made noodles. And while the two new locations will be the chain’s first U.S. expansion outside of California, they join a crowded field of hot pot places in the region, including two regularly-packed restaurants right in the heart of Bellevue, Liuyishou and The Dolar Shop. There’s always room for more, right?

Smoked orange juice comes to South Lake Union

Good news for those who like their brunches on the smokey side. On Saturday, April 20, Jack’s BBQ — the acclaimed barbeque restaurant known for its smoked meats, with three locations in Seattle — officially opened for brunch at its South Lake Union outpost. Among the menu offerings (available from 10am - 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays) are Benedicts with jalapeno hollandaise, chicken fried steak, and pecan and banana pancakes. Those who want to booze it up can sample the bloody mary with beef bacon and pickled eggs, along with a mimosa riff that features smoked orange juice. Yes, even light bubbly drinks get the full-on Texas barbeque treatment.

New Pioneer Square spot features Brazilian dried meat and drinks

An intriguing new Latin American bar is coming to Pioneer Square. According to Seattle Met, Chicha will soon take over the space formerly occupied by critically-acclaimed chef Matt Dillon’s Little London Plane, an offshoot of his popular restaurant that’s mainly used for private events. Though Chicha will mainly feature beer and cocktails, expect small bites such as pumpkin seed spreads, tamales, and a Brazilian dried meat known as carne seca, along with Cuban sandwiches. Dillon will be a silent partner for the new venture, with chef Taber Turpin of the popular Pioneer Square taqueria Copal running the show.