99 Favor Taste is a hot pot restaurant chain with locations across North America

99 Favor Taste operates as a casual dining chain specializing in hot pot, a cooking method where diners cook raw ingredients in a simmering broth at their table. The restaurant has multiple locations, primarily in the United States and Canada, though the exact number and addresses change as locations open and close. Each location operates independently in some respects, so hours, menu prices, and specific offerings can differ between restaurants.

The chain positions itself as a mid-range hot pot experience, typically offering both traditional broths and specialty options. Like most hot pot restaurants, 99 Favor Taste charges per person for the broth and cooking vessel, then charges separately for raw ingredients — proteins, vegetables, noodles, and other items — that you select and cook yourself at the table.

Key Takeaways

  • 99 Favor Taste charges a per-person broth fee plus separate costs for raw ingredients you select and cook at your table.
  • Reservation policies and wait times vary by location, so calling ahead is useful if you are dining during peak hours.
  • Most 99 Favor Taste locations accept both cash and card, but payment methods can differ between restaurants.
  • Dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are usually available, though you should confirm with your specific location.

How pricing typically works at 99 Favor Taste

99 Favor Taste uses a two-part pricing model. First, you pay a base fee per person that includes the broth, the cooking vessel (usually a divided pot), and access to the table setup. This fee varies by location and broth type — premium broths or specialty options often cost more than a standard broth.

Second, you order raw ingredients from a menu or buffet. Proteins like beef, lamb, seafood, and tofu are priced individually or by weight. Vegetables, mushrooms, noodles, and other items are also priced separately. Some locations offer all-you-can-eat pricing instead, where you pay one flat fee per person and can order unlimited ingredients for a set time period (often 60 to 90 minutes). The all-you-can-eat model is common at hot pot restaurants but not all 99 Favor Taste locations use it, so check with your specific restaurant.

What to expect when you arrive

When you enter a 99 Favor Taste location, a host will seat you at a table equipped with a built-in burner and a hot pot vessel. The burner heats the broth to a simmer. You will receive a menu listing broths, proteins, vegetables, and other ingredients. Some locations have a buffet bar where you walk up and select items yourself; others have you order from a server or tablet.

Once your broth arrives and begins heating, you cook ingredients by placing them in the pot and waiting for them to cook through — usually 30 seconds to a few minutes depending on the item. You retrieve cooked pieces with a small strainer or chopsticks, dip them in sauce if desired, and eat. The meal is self-paced; you cook and eat at your own speed for the duration of your visit.

Reservations, wait times, and peak hours

Whether 99 Favor Taste takes reservations depends on the location. Some accept phone or online reservations; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Peak dining times are typically Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as lunch hours on weekends. If you plan to visit during these times, calling ahead to ask about wait times or to reserve a table is worth doing.

Wait times can range from no wait to 45 minutes or more during busy periods, depending on how many tables the location has and how long other diners are staying. Hot pot meals tend to last longer than typical restaurant meals because the cooking happens at the table, so turnover is slower than at other dining establishments.

Menu options and dietary considerations

Most 99 Favor Taste locations offer a range of broths — mild, spicy, and sometimes specialty flavors — so you can choose based on your heat tolerance. Many pots are divided, allowing two diners to cook in different broths at the same table.

Vegetarian and vegan diners can build a meal from vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and noodles. Gluten-free options may be available depending on the broth and ingredients, but you should ask your server about soy sauce and other condiments, as these often contain gluten. If you have allergies or strict dietary needs, calling the location before you visit is the safest approach, since ingredient sourcing and preparation can vary between restaurants.

Payment methods and what to bring

Most 99 Favor Taste locations accept both cash and major credit cards. Some may have a minimum card purchase or prefer cash during certain hours, so it is worth asking when you call or arrive. A few locations may use mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, but this is not universal.

Bring your own sauce preferences if you have strong ones — most locations provide basic dipping sauces (soy sauce, sesame oil, cilantro, garlic), but you can ask if you can bring your own. Wear clothes you do not mind getting small splashes on, as hot pot cooking can occasionally splash broth or oil onto clothing.

Differences between 99 Favor Taste locations

Because 99 Favor Taste locations are independently operated or franchised, they can differ in menu, pricing, hours, and service style. One location may offer all-you-can-eat pricing while another charges à la carte. One may have a full bar; another may not serve alcohol. Hours vary, and some locations may be closed on certain days.

Before visiting, check the specific location's website, call the restaurant directly, or look at recent reviews to understand what that particular restaurant offers. This is especially important if you are traveling to a location you have not visited before or if you have specific needs like a large group reservation or dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make a reservation at 99 Favor Taste?

It depends on the location. Some accept reservations by phone or online; others do not. If you are visiting during a busy time like a Friday or Saturday evening, calling ahead to ask about wait times or to reserve is a good idea. For smaller groups on weekday afternoons, you may be able to walk in without waiting.

Can I bring my own ingredients or sauces?

Most hot pot restaurants do not allow outside food or ingredients. However, bringing your own dipping sauces is sometimes permitted — ask your server when you arrive. The restaurant provides basic condiments, so you may not need to bring anything.

How long does a hot pot meal usually take?

A typical hot pot meal lasts 60 to 90 minutes, though it can be shorter or longer depending on how many courses you order and how quickly you eat. The cooking happens at your table, so you control the pace. If you are on a tight schedule, let your server know so they can help you order efficiently.

What if I have never done hot pot before?

Hot pot is straightforward: your server or the menu will explain how to use the pot and cooking tools. You place raw ingredients in the simmering broth, wait for them to cook, then eat. Staff at 99 Favor Taste are accustomed to first-time diners and can walk you through the process.

Are there options for people who do not eat spicy food?

Yes. Most locations offer a mild or non-spicy broth option, and many have divided pots so you can cook in a mild broth while others cook in a spicy one at the same table. Vegetables, noodles, and tofu are naturally mild, so you can build a full meal without spicy ingredients.