It’s that time of year again — my birthday week — which means figuring out where to take everyone for the annual feast. This round was for my work crew, which is always the trickiest group to please. You can’t blow the budget, you need something fun but still family-friendly, and you have to remember these kids in their 20s can’t handle two drinks without needing a three-day recovery.
So I went with a classic that never misses: KPot Midtown, the ultimate mash-up of Korean BBQ and hot pot. It’s affordable, it’s interactive, and it keeps everyone happy.
The Food & Experience
KPot Midtown runs about $52–$53 per person for two hours, which is honestly a steal for all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ and hot pot. I might’ve gotten “politely asked to stop eating” — what can I say, there’s a separate stomach for KPot.
They’ve got over 100 locations nationwide, but this Midtown spot has been open for a year or two, just steps from my office. You order everything from an iPad, meats, dumplings, veggies (for those pretending to be healthy), and it comes out fast.
Personally, I stick with the hot pot over the grill. Less effort, more flavor. Throw the meat in, pull it out, repeat. The brisket is the MVP, though the dumplings hold their own.
Drinks & Vibes
Happy hour deals make it even better — $2 off drinks, and they don’t try to gouge you. I went for two soju yogurt martinis and two bottles of unfiltered sake for around 60 bucks total. The only catch? They only serve beer, wine, and sake — but honestly, that’s perfect for keeping the group upright.
The Only Downside
They sometimes send smaller portions than you order (you ask for four, you get two). I get it, waste control. But man, I just want to dump everything in the pot like Garfield with lasagna and keep it moving.
Otherwise? It’s a solid choice for groups. Everyone gets to eat what they want, make their own sauces, and build their adventure. My go-to? Scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, a bit of oyster and hoisin, and yes, Worcestershire sauce (nailed the pronunciation this time).
KPot is perfect for casual hangouts, birthdays, or midweek escapes when you need something that hits the comfort zone just right.
🍌 The Banana Juice Theory™
KPot Midtown is the kind of place that fits the Banana Juice Theory perfectly: simple ingredients, familiar flavors, and no pretense. It’s not fancy, it’s not trying too hard, it’s just good like banana juice: sweet, straightforward, and satisfying every time.
Sometimes you don’t need the flash, you just need the warmth of a good meal, the sound of laughter, and a place where you can eat like you mean it.
Look, I’m just a Fat Guy from Brooklyn giving you my two cents. If you want more Top 10s—steakhouses, burgers, restaurants, you name it—click the words and keep going.