Ever wondered what it would be like to dine at the world’s largest hot pot restaurant?
Well, you can find it in Chongqing, China, at Pipa Yuan Shiweixian Hotpot Restaurant!
@jackiewirt ♬ original sound – Jackie Wirt
This giant eatery sprawls over a hillside and boasts a jaw-dropping 888 tables, capable of seating 5,851 hungry patrons at once.
Yes, you read that right—5,851!
In a viral TikTok video by @jackiewirt, the scale of this giant hot pot haven was captured in all its glory, showing just how massive this place really is.
If you ever make it there, you might need a map just to find your table, as the place is so big that a stroll from the parking lot to your seat can take up to 30 minutes.
But why do so many flock to Pipa Yuan, despite the maze-like layout and long walks?
It’s because Chongqing is known for its hot pot, and Pipa Yuan is the undisputed king of the hill—literally.
It’s a hotspot for both locals and tourists, especially at night when the colorful lights turn the entire hillside into a glowing spectacle.
In fact, the restaurant has earned international recognition, even earning a spot on the famous Chinese documentary A Bite of China and holding the record for the largest hotpot restaurant (seating capacity) in the Guinness World Records.
The restaurant’s size alone is enough to impress, but how’s the food?
Surprisingly, it doesn’t sacrifice quality for quantity.
Despite the massive scale, the hot pot here holds up with fresh ingredients, flavorful broths, and just the right level of spice.
Sure, you might be in for a bit of a wait during peak hours, but the views, atmosphere, and the sheer novelty of the experience make it worth it.
And as for the staff? Well, let’s just say that’s a whole other level of dedication.
There are hundreds of waiters, dozens of cooks, and even over 25 cashiers working non-stop to keep this place running smoothly!
Can you imagine the coordination needed to serve thousands of customers each day?
No wonder one commenter, Jaime🩷, had the thought, “5k people?! How many people work there?!”
And another user, billybobjoe6153, jokingly wondered, “Imagine working there and having to close.”
Yeah, we imagine it’s no small task.
The most fascinating part? Pipa Yuan still manages to draw a crowd every single day, and finding an empty table during peak times is almost impossible without a reservation.
Have you ever experienced anything on this scale? Or have a local hot pot place that comes close?
Don’t forget to share this interesting place with your family and friends!