Haidilao Hot Pot prepares to transform Daly City’s dining landscape. The globally celebrated chain will occupy over 7,000 square feet at Serramonte Center, marking its third Bay Area outpost in 2025.
Beyond the Broth: Entertainment Meets Authentic Flavors
Where most restaurants serve food, Haidilao orchestrates experiences. Hand-pulled noodle demonstrations unfold tableside while staff perform choreographed TikTok dances between courses. Founded in 1994 by former factory worker Zhang Yong, the chain now operates more than 1,400 locations worldwide.
The interactive hot pot concept invites diners to cook thin-sliced meats, fresh vegetables, and house-made noodles in customizable broths. Sichuan-inspired spicy broths share space with mellower pork bone and tomato bases, accommodating diverse palates around communal tables.
Strategic Suburban Success
Serramonte Center’s location at the Highway 1 and I-280 intersection draws over 16 million annual visits. This positioning reflects Haidilao’s deliberate strategy of operating outside traditional Chinatowns to reach broader mainstream audiences.
The mall’s recent additions include Jagalchi, Marufuku Ramen, and the relocated flagship Koi Palace, creating an Asian food corridor that serves both cultural communities and curious newcomers.
The Viral Factor
Celebrity visits and social media buzz have propelled Haidilao into must-try territory for food enthusiasts. Jessica Alba‘s documented dining experience generated millions of views, while the signature “kemusan dance” became a viral sensation across platforms.
The Zhang Yong empire, which has made its founder one of China’s wealthiest individuals, continues expanding its experiential dining model. Each location balances theatrical entertainment with quality ingredients and exceptional service standards.
Reservations and walk-in availability details await the official opening announcement. Still, early indicators suggest Daly City diners should prepare for both the spectacle and the authentic flavors that have made Haidilao a global phenomenon.
