Ding Hotpot

Ding Hotpot is a hotpot restaurant in Lanzhou's Chengguan District, in Gansu province, rated about 4.5 by travellers on Tripadvisor. The address is listed only as Chengguan District, so visitors are advised to confirm the exact location on Amap before going. Hotpot is a communal meal in which diners cook raw ingredients in a pot of simmering broth set at the centre of the table, and it is popular in Lanzhou as a social, group-oriented alternative to the city's noodle and lamb specialities. The signature offerings at Ding Hotpot are lamb hotpot and beef hotpot, reflecting the local preference for red meat, with thin slices of meat, vegetables, tofu and noodles served on platters for cooking at the table. The dining room is lively and informal, with a hot, steamy and fairly noisy atmosphere that peaks in the evening, and it is well suited to families, friends and colleagues dining together. Beverages typically include tea, soft drinks and beer. Prices are moderate, with a meal generally costing about 70 to 130 yuan per person, roughly 10 to 18 US dollars. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 to 23:00, so lunch and late dinner are both possible. Reservations are recommended on weekends, when tables can be scarce, and groups of four or more should book in advance. Hotpot works best with at least two diners, and the quantity of ingredients is generally scaled to the group. Visitors with dietary rules should check with staff regarding the broth and the meats, since halal status is not specified. The late closing time makes it a useful option for a leisurely evening meal after a day of sightseeing in the central district.