Favorite shabu place, and we keep coming back : ) Each plate comes in small, med, or large + fresh veggies + rice + ice cream at the end. Their sauces are great, music is good, and has super friendly service. Place is clean with easy parking.
Overview
If you're craving an unforgettable dining experience, look no further than Shabu Shabu Bar located at 1945 17th St STE 108, Santa Ana, CA. This cozy yet vibrant spot serves up an incredible fusion of tradition and taste, giving customers a chance to savor the art of Japanese hot pot in a modern setting.
At Shabu Shabu Bar, the focus is on high-quality ingredients and a customer-first experience. The main attraction here is the shabu shabu, a popular Japanese dish that involves dipping thinly sliced meats and vegetables into a simmering pot of broth. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meal, as diners can cook their food right at the table. The flavors are as customizable as they are diverse, with a variety of broths and dipping sauces to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for something rich and savory or light and refreshing, there's a broth for every taste.
What really sets this place apart is the freshness of the ingredients. Each bowl of shabu shabu comes with a selection of meats, such as tender beef, pork, and chicken, as well as fresh vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, and carrots. The quality is evident in every bite, with each ingredient carefully sourced and prepared. You can tell the chefs take pride in what they serve, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors that elevate the entire dining experience.
But it’s not just the food that makes Shabu Shabu Bar a standout. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for both casual dinners and special celebrations. The contemporary décor, with its mix of sleek modern design and traditional Japanese elements, adds to the overall dining experience. You can expect attentive service from the friendly staff, who are more than happy to guide you through the menu and make suggestions based on your preferences.
Another highlight is the customizable menu. While the signature shabu shabu is the star of the show, there are also various sides and appetizers that perfectly complement the main dish. From crispy gyoza to savory tempura, there’s no shortage of tasty options to enhance your meal. The variety of dipping sauces also adds another layer of flavor, allowing you to tailor the dish to your liking.
For those who enjoy a bit of variety, Shabu Shabu Bar also offers combo options, allowing you to mix and match different proteins and vegetables for a more personalized meal. Whether you're a meat lover or prefer plant-based dishes, there’s a combination for everyone. And if you're looking to add a little extra flair to your meal, don’t forget to try their house-made dipping sauces, which pack a punch of flavor.
It’s also worth mentioning the location in Santa Ana, CA, which is easily accessible and conveniently located for both locals and visitors. The ambiance here is ideal for groups, making it an excellent choice for a night out with friends or a casual family dinner. Plus, with the option to reserve a table, it’s a great place for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.
Many patrons rave about their experiences at Shabu Shabu Bar, and it's easy to see why. The combination of fresh ingredients, exceptional service, and an inviting atmosphere ensures that each visit is memorable. Whether you’re new to shabu shabu or a longtime fan, this restaurant offers a fresh take on a classic Japanese dish, making it a must-visit in Santa Ana.
The reviews speak for themselves, with many highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and consistency. Diners appreciate the interactive nature of the meal, where they can cook their food to perfection and enjoy a leisurely, communal experience. The attention to detail in both the food and the customer experience has earned Shabu Shabu Bar a dedicated following, and it’s no wonder why it’s becoming a popular destination in the area.
In summary, Shabu Shabu Bar in Santa Ana delivers an exceptional dining experience that’s both delicious and enjoyable. From the fresh, high-quality ingredients to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant has everything you need for a memorable meal. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, you'll find something to love at Shabu Shabu Bar.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fast servicePopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ University studentsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservations ✓ Usually a waitPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
This place is great came in and was instantly greeted. Fun to crush your own sesame for their signature sauce. Drank some sake blue balls to be exact great way to wash your meal down. The customer service here is fantastic and the vibes are great. Highly recommend coming to eat here you won’t disappointed thank you
Came here on a hunt for a good hang over cure and this place did the trick. They were busy when we first arrived and I had never eaten this style of food but the staff makes it an effortless and seamless experience. Our waiter who was funny but also nice enough to help our recovering brains get going provided excellent service. Really enjoyed the fact that this is at your own pace and you can enjoy the food. Vegetables provided were super fresh and the meat is cut just thick enough so that it doesn't fall apart while cooking.
I have been eating here for years, like at least 10. It's one of my favorite place to eat! The food is always amazing. Their ponzu sauce is the best ever and I much prefer their sesame sauce to the peanut sauce at other shabu places.
The moment i walked in I was surrounded by a fun and yet serene athmosphere, the staff made me feel right at home instantly and I was seated near the other customers, which caught me off gaurd at first but quickly turned into new friendships and a family like enviroment that is hard to match outside of a good friend’s house. The food was excellent. The quality of the meats was superb and the broth was flavorful and of course it was expertly tailored to my exact preference by an extremely kind young man who must love every minute of his job. I was new to this style of cooking and the staff all but spoon fed me the food after patiently explaining exactly what was going on and what I was expected to do. This is an great place for a fun date if you enjoy hands on experiences, love playing with your food, and can appreciate simplicity. Free sake on wednesdays, what more can I say? Free icecream for dessert. Do me a favor, get yourself out here. It was very affordable too!
Best food in town! The owner is super nice and friendly. They know what they are doing. Highly recommend this spot to go to!!
A very enjoyable meal. Beef were well sliced, you get an individual hot pot and choose your own broth. Attentive service. Highly recommended and I do plan to return.