Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa

308

231

581

7 days ago

came on a saturday night right when they opened at 5pm and they already started filling up pretty quickly. there is an array of seats along a hot pot bar and everyone gets their own pot. the menu feels super similar to mokkoji. i ordered the tonkotsu broth (+$4) and a large (6oz) wagyu short rib. first off up charging $4 for tonkotsu soup is pretty insane. the meat was okay quality and the meal tasted good but for this price i could've gotten similar quality ayce. the service was really great tho and my waitress was extremely attentive. read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Sandyna S.

258

243

5 months ago

Cute restaurant, love that its bar top seating. I ordered the Sukiyaki broth and it was a little too sweet for my liking, but this is just personal preference I probably would've diluted it with water, but they don't allow you to add hot drops to the pot for whatever reason, so I figured I couldn't add a splash of water to my pot. Can anyone tell me why they don't allow hot drops in the broth? First shabu place I've been to that doesn't allow it. Interesting..... Good cuts of meat like any other shabu place. Probably wouldn't return to this location, didn't really like the customer service. 3 stars for decent food and cute restaurant. Was too annoyed to take pictures. read more

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Jeff C.

Hi Sandyna! Thank you so much for coming in and for the feedback.…

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Emily M.

3 days ago

It was great! Service was excellent and everything was very fresh! I would highly recommend this place!!! read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Menu - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

Love hearing this. Fresh food and excellent service are what we aim…

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Sophia V.

30 days ago

Always have a good time at tabu shabu. Such good service and the food is great!! Lots of options on the menu and they have happy hour and lots of specials. read more

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Kathy P.

4 months ago

I love it here! All fresh ingredients will be back again! I'm nice and stuffed I did the beef belly and brisket combo and it was exactly Enough read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Ready to eattttt - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

We love hearing you left nice and stuffed. Fresh ingredients are what…

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Gavin R.

12 days ago

Food and service was awesome! Wells took great care of us. This was our first time at Tabu Shabu and we will for sure be back!

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Michelle T.

Love hearing the food and service were awesome! First visits are a…

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Dyana K.

21 days ago

Great food and service! Food is consistent. Wagyu short rib is amazing. Ramen noodle to finish up the meal. Porridge is also great to finish the meal! read more

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Michelle T.

Love hearing this. We’re glad the food and service have been…

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Vy D.

3716

1002

11244

7 months ago

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Jeff C.

Thank you so much Vy!

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Olivia A.

2 months ago

Come here after jujutsu training and this is always a good meal to refuel Bro is amazing. It is amazing very calm smooth vibe. read more

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Michelle T.

Thank you so much Olivia!

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Sophie P.

8 days ago

Great and very friendly staff! The food was excellent quality, definitely will come back again!

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Michelle T.

Love hearing our team made you feel welcome and that the food quality…

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Fulmer B.

677

6 months ago

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Ursula and our baby! - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Scarlett H.

128

1015

4391

1 year ago

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Veggies that come with each shabu order - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

Thank you so much for your review Scarlett we hope to take care of…

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Sheena M.

314

4 months ago

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - The best Shabu experience you'll ever have!! - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Cheers!! - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - PS- Do it. Just get the porridge. You'll thank me later. - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

We aim to please Sheena thanks so much!

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Stephanie W.

1 month ago

Great food & service! The salmon sashimi is a favorite as well as the Beef Brisket. Great spot for locals. read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Tabu Shabu!!!!! - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

So glad you enjoyed the food and service! The salmon sashimi and beef…

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Kimberly B.

102

414

10 months ago

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Tonkotsu 3 oz SIDE Wagyu Chuckeye Roll - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Bar seating - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Rice - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Inside - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Restroom at the end of the hall - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Udon and veggies - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Tonkotsu broth - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Wagyu Chuckeye Roll - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

We hope to remain your favorite Kimberly thank you!

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Johnny P.

4 months ago

Amazing . The food was delicious and the service was excellent. We will definitely be coming back again. read more

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Michelle T.

Sukiyaki hits the spot! Thanks Johnny!

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Annette M.

4 months ago

Great service and amazing food!! Very attentive if we need anything utensils napkins. Love their side sauces and seasonings. IPA beers and wine. Sushi too if you want it :) read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Hotpot - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

Thank you so much Annette!

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Elayna T.

4 months ago

Love the service here and the food is awesome! Every time I am near a Tabu Shabu it is a must stop. read more

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Michelle T.

We hope to stay that way Elayna!

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Kimberly S.

899

4 months ago

Waitress was so sweet and the food was so good! Must try the the mochi balls as well. read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Mochi - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

So good to hear Kimberly thank you!

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Tim R.

113

5 months ago

Great food great service as always. Long time client and always bring friends and family here. read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Ready to eat - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Tofu and miso broth - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Jeff C.

Bring em all Tim!

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Soraya S.

5 months ago

So happy I gave this place a try after my usual shabu place was closed. Love that they are open later than other shabu spots. Wonderful service and very attentive staff. The quality of the food was outstanding and you can tell it's all very fresh. Portion size is also very wonderful for the price point. Goma sauce is spot on as well. Even the napkins are sturdy! Will definitely be back and happy I found a new cute spot! read more

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Michelle T.

We can't wait to have you back Soraya!!!

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coco a.

4 months ago

Each time I come back, I am reminded why I love this place. The food is delicious, the service is amazing, and the ambiance is so fun. You get to do it yourself and it is so interactive. Everyone in the restaurant is having a good time and the music is amazing! My server Ursula is the absolute sweetest and such a great server. One of my favorite restaurants!!!! read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Ambiance is great! - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Michelle T.

We agree Ursula is the best. Thank you Coco!

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Cayla Dee P.

Elite 22

246

179

6 months ago

The food is great, the service is good and the atmosphere is hustle and bustle. It's an experience and I highly recommend. It's very popular and I would recommend very small parties as it's bar only and you could also experience a wait. But delicious food. Come hungry! read more

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Vanessa M.

5 months ago

Everything here is so good! Service was awesome! Get the broth booster. I also got the marinade on the meat which was a great!

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Michelle T.

Pro tips Vanessa ;)

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Zoe S.

4 months ago

This place is hands down the best Shabu around. High quality meat and veggies, immaculate vibes and the best staff. I love Ursula and Santiago, all of the staff is amazing. They have been serving us for over a year and always create such a friendly engaging environment. I highly recommend the sukiyaki broth and Wagyu short rib. You can't ever go wrong with their crunchy garlic edamame either. See you all next week! With love. read more

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Michelle T.

Great choices Zoe! See you soon!

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Claudia L.

140

2 months ago

10/10 favorite place in Newport Beach. The staff is incredible friendly, their protein is top notch. Bring a sweater just in case, their a/c doesn't mess around. Make reservations too, you'll be lucky if you don't have to wait if you're just a walk in. read more

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Michelle T.

10/10 made our day. Really glad you loved the friendly service and…

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James N.

835

172

4 months ago

Interesting layout as the entire restaurant is just a giant bar counter. If you have a group of 4, you are all seated in a row so the people on either end won't really be able to talk to each other. The counter space also feels cramped with drinks, appetizers, the vegetables, the meat, and your pot of broth. The portion sizes aren't huge, I got the largest, a "double" order of meat and still needed more. This is a decent place to bring a woman if she doesn't eat as much, because then you can both order doubles and you can eat her extra meat. If you're a man with a decent appetite, you'll need more than 8 oz of meat. All that nitpicking aside, I still have it five stars because the meat was some of the best quality meat I've had, and I've been to a lot of hot pot and shabu and kbbq restaurants. I just got the Wagyu chuck roll and it was beautifully marbled and tasted great. The vegetable platter that it comes with is good too, nice variety of mushrooms and vegetables. I got the fresh ramen noodles and they were good. The thing that puts it over the top is our server was great. He was a super friendly white dude that was really knowledgeable and took great care of us. When we were halfway finished with our meat, he even flipped the meat tray around for us so it was easy to reach, which helped to alleviate the tight counter space. Only had a short wait, there's a waitlist on an iPad at the front and it moved surprisingly quickly for a smaller restaurant. Parking lot is ample. Overall I would come back if I was on a date with a non-obese girl or my elderly mother since they don't eat as much so I could eat their extra meat. read more

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Michelle T.

We appreciate the honest notes on the seating setup and meat…

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Giovanna M.

114

8 months ago

Felt like I was getting a little sick so I ate all my veggies and had some shabu! I got the miso broth & cooked some beef along with it. I put some condiments: green onions, garlic, and, soy sauce. Service was nice and they served well. And I like the cutesy artwork everywhere :) read more

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Michelle T.

Tabu is the cure all for sure! Thank you so much Giovanna we hope to…

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Brenna T.

2 months ago

Always incredible. I have never had a bad experience here! Great selection, high quality food!! read more

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Michelle T.

Always incredible is what we love to hear. So glad the selection and…

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Lauren J.

3 months ago

I've been coming to tabu for over 10 years and I LOVE IT! The service food and everything is amazing

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Michelle T.

Ten years of coming in means a lot, and we really appreciate you…

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Ronnie F.

27 days ago

Amazing service and food will def be back again soon!!! Tabu shabuuuuuu. If you in Costa Mesa come if your looking for Shabu

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Michelle T.

Love hearing you had an amazing time with the food and service. We’ll…

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Jayden H.

28 days ago

Very good hotpot very nice staff and seating is cool very flavoral broth nice meat and very good mochi

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Michelle T.

Love hearing you had such a good hotpot night!

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Andrew L.

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

286

610

639

1 year ago

This is an update. My coworker had what seemed like salmonella eating the raw egg when we came here the first time a couple of years ago. But nonetheless we decided to give it another try, without any of that raw egg. This time was well, worse. We didn't have salmonella but all three of us had some variation of discomfort that night, either mild diarrhea or just bad stomach ache. We will NEVER be back again. read more

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Belinda L.

359

1739

1 year ago

My niece was in town and we wanted to treat her and her sister to hot pot after meeting at church for service. We had dined here before for Father's Day. Because it was not all you can eat, we knew that she would not be able to overeat here. We were greeted upon entering. It was around 8 PM on a Saturday. There was no wait and they found space for the 6 of us. I had the traditional kombu and Ora King Salmon which is sushi grade with brown rice. They can customize your vegetable plate here removing vegetables and adding more of say green leafy vegetables or mushrooms. My husband tried the carb free shirataki. The young ladies all had combos. Ursula our server and the ancillary staff worked well together to meet our dining needs. Ursula has very nice manners making you feel like an honored guest at her table. She helped me with my soup base swirling 3 times for my udon. She made a very unique porridge as rich as risotto with my younger daughter's leftovers. The nieces liked this new to them hot pot place. read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Cooking the vegetables - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Ora King Salmon Hot Pot - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Business owner information

Michelle T.

So pleased you and your family enjoyed yourselves Belinda! Come back…

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Tatsat J.

3 months ago

Great service, great food. very friendly staff, amazing way to spend the afternoon, had the World Cup game up too, that was pretty hype.

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Michelle T.

Love hearing you had a great afternoon with us! So glad the food and…

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Saara T.

3 months ago

My all-time favorite shabu shabu spot in OC. It's consistently delicious and you can tell they use high quality ingredients. The service is pretty great too, whether they're busy or slow. Wells is a wonderful waiter--he is attentive, kind, and truly makes the experience even better! The ambiance is relaxing and chill yet lively and fun all at once. They have great music and vibes and I love it here! Highly recommend. read more

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Michelle T.

Wells is the best. Thank you Saara!

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Jillian R.

6 months ago

Always delicious. Staff is always friendly and attentive. I take my kids here for lunch and they love it. They offer kids portion of 10 and under read more

Business owner information

Jeff C.

We love our minis! Thank you so much Jillian!

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Luke T.

6 months ago

Santiago was the man! Had a great experience and the food was fantastic! Get udon noodles we enjoyed them! #getthesidedgg Best place for hot pot in OC read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - Vibing - Japanese Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Business owner information

Jeff C.

He is indeed Luke thank you!!!

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Brad N.

3 months ago

Tasty! Our favorite Shabu by far. Attentive service, fresh food. Parking is easy and available. Love this place.

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Michelle T.

Thank you so much Brad!

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More info about Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa

333 E 17th St
Unit 19
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Directions
(949) 642-2660
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://tabushabu.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa open?

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa opens at 11:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa opens at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa opens at 12:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa close?

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa closes at 2:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa closes at 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa closes at 3:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Thu 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PMFri 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PMSat 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PMSun 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa take credit cards?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have catering options?

No, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa does not have catering options.

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have a drive thru?

No, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa does not have a drive thru.

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have a happy hour?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa has a happy hour.

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa serve alcohol?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa allow dogs?

No, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa does not allow dogs.

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have TVs?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have bike parking?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa has bike parking.

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have outdoor seating?

No, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have parking?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Is Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa is wheelchair accessible.

Does Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa have free WiFi?

Yes, Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Shabu Shabu hot pot cuisine

History

Established in 2012.

First location opened April 2012.

Meet the Business Owner: Jeff C.

Restaurateur Jeff Chon is known from his long history as operator of the Alley in Newport Beach which has been in business for over 26 years. Together with investors Sol An and Christian Fernandez, Jeff has created an upscale, Japanese hot pot restaurant in blossoming Eastside Costa Mesa.

More Info

Health Score

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa Reviews in Other Languages

Chinese
2 Reviews

Ask the Community - Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa

Is there happy hour on the weekend? If so what time?

Are the veggies organic?

Yes they are!

Is this an AYCE shabu restaurant?

No. It's not.

Do you take reservations?

They don't take reservations but the best time to come is around 5-6 PM. However, you can call the restaurant as you are on your way to see how long the wait is!

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

Can I dine alone?

Great place to dine alone! This restaurant is shaped in a U and you sit on tall stools next to people and I always interact with the people sitting on either side of me. Bonus, the staff/servers are friendly and make great conversation as well.

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Can you please add ramen noodles to the menu permanently? They are so good! Everything is good as always

Do you guys offer gluten free options?

Yes! So many GF options. I'm allergic to gluten and go here pretty much monthly (sometimes weekly or more 🤷🏻‍♀️). Everything GF is noted on the menu. Pretty much avoid certain broths and noodles and you're good!

How busy are you Monday nights? We love going to tabu and are regulars like once a week but i hate being right next to ppl on your left and right?

Hi Kelly! Unfortunately Monday nights tend to be our busiest night outside of the weekend. Although we are indeed a circular bar restaurant you can always request a seat on…

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Do they have outside seating?

Do they have a happy hour?

Yes they do! Monday-Friday from 5-6pm 20% off entrees!

Do we need to make a reservation if we want to dine in on a Saturday night?

I don't believe Tabu Shabu offers reservations. They do, however, have a waitlist that can be joined via Yelp. I highly recommend joining the Yelp waitlist and getting there early.

Do they have gluten free entrees?

Absolutely!!!

Is this kid friendly?

Kids are allowed since it is a restaurant . However, seating is mainly bar-style seating, so it may be tough for kids to sit there.

Do they accept reservations? If not, can you be seated if your entire party is not there?

Sorry since we are bar style seating - we seat based on a first come first served basis. We have a wait list that you may sign in when you arrive but will only be seated when your entire party arrives. Feel free to call anytime and we can try to…

Do they take discover?

Yes! Amex, MC, VISA and Discover

Is there a vegan option?

Yes! You can get a miso or kombu broth which would be vegan. Then you have a plate full of veggies (broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, bok choy, spinach, Napa cabbage and scallions) and tofu!

Is there MSG is all of the bases?

They offer kombu (Traditional seaweed) broth, spicy miso, Suki yaki, and Tonkatsu broth. And there are NO MSG in any of them :)

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4.2(1.6k reviews)

4.4 mi

We chose the all-you-can-eat option, and everything was fresh and delicious. The highlight for me…read morewas definitely the Wagyu beef, premium beef, and lamb. The meat quality was amazing--tender, flavorful, and melted in your mouth after just a few seconds in the hot pot. We kept ordering more because it was that good! Besides the meat, they also have a great selection of fresh seafood, vegetables, sushi, fruit, desserts, and drinks all included in the price. Everyone in our family found something they loved. The service was friendly and attentive, and food came out quickly throughout our meal. This place is cleaned and nice vibe. Another big plus is the free garage parking, which made the whole experience even more convenient. Great food, great service, and great value. Highly recommend if you're looking for a quality AYCE hot pot and sushi spot in Irvine!

Ambiance was big restaurant but pretty empty for Sunday at 5pm. It's buffet style so you get your…read moreown veggies, seafood and noodles. You order your meat using your phone with a QR code on the table. Veggies had lots of options, but label wasn't great. Sushi is only 4 roll options prepared on the side. No more ordering sushi separately, and sushi made is warm. Service is where the low rating comes in. When you order meat, they stack plates on top of each other. So, the top of your meat is touching the bottom of another plate. Then your plates will touch the table. Seems unsanitary. Service never checked on my table, or refilled my water, and took awhile to clear my plates I had stacked on the side. Had higher expectations but not coming back.

Tonkatsu broth

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Prime beef

Lao Ma Tou Hot Pot

4.6(252 reviews)

7.1 mi•Woodbridge

This is an authentic Hot Pot spot in Irvine that hits the spot if you're looking for spicy Chinese…read morehot pot. But be warned - the spice on their spicy broth is unreal. I'm Asian so I know how to handle spice, but even a level 2 on their spice level will be a bit painful. The interior looks newly designed, and the inside is very clean. The standout dish for me was the fried rice. For a hot pot place, they really know how to cook up a delicious fried rice. The meat was unremarkable, but with how thin they slice the meat at hot pot/shabu places, I've never been too impressed with any meats a hot pot place. The service is okay - you'll probably have an easier time communicating with the staff here if you speak Chinese, but even with limited English, there's not much to convey; and to be frank, with how spicy the food is, your typical Westerner might suffer here as I did (but in a good way). Parking is a bit tricky since the lot is small, but I always managed to find parking.

Authentic Chinese style spicy hot pot One of the most spicy…read morehot pot in the area! Beware to order less spicy if you can't handle the heat! First time trying fish maw broth here, comes with tons of Chinese meat, fish maw and jumbo shrimps Also ordered beef short ribs, goose intestine, duck paws, duck blood, shrimp paste in mushrooms ‍, tofu cubs and winter melon Snack bar is a must visit! Tons of appetizers, dipping sauces, fresh fruits and desserts. Jello is my favorite

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Anjin

4.3(2.1k reviews)

3.8 mi

We had such a wonderful dinner at Anjin. Everything we ordered was delicious, but my favorites were…read moredefinitely the Kainomi, the Anjin Seaweed Salad, and the orange sherbet at the end. The Kainomi was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the seaweed salad was fresh, light, and perfectly seasoned. The orange sherbet was also such a refreshing way to finish the meal. I honestly wanted to try so many more dishes, but since there were only two of us, we could only order so much. Next time, I would love to come with a bigger group so we can try more of the menu. We came to celebrate a very special birthday, and it made the evening even more memorable. We both left very happy and completely satisfied. Thank you for such a lovely experience!

Anjin has been on my list for so long and I've always heard good things. I just couldn't bring…read moremyself to wait 2 hrs on most days. My wife and I decided to leave our names down and walked around antil mall/the lab. Our wait time ended being about almost 2 hours. The service here is pretty good, they are pretty attentive. You could tell they been around due to the furniture and style. Anyways, we absolutely enjoyed our meal. We ordered three al carte meats: marbled prime rib eye, boneless short ribs and the prime outside skirt. I can assure you the meat was so soft and tender. Quality at its finest. You can cook them either well done or my preference is medium. Very tender and melts in your mouth.. Their side dishes were good, the seaweed salad and the hot stone rice bowl. Make sure you to add those on your visit. I mean this place has 2k reviews, 2 hour waits, not much I need to say. This restaurant speaks for itself. I'm glad I finally had the courage to wait out the hangryness!

Inside, small but neat. Come early or late if you want to get a table without waiting

Kobe beef, so good

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Sanchu with bean paste! the best sauce ever!

dPot Unlimited

4.4(619 reviews)

7.3 mi•Woodbridge

Awesome food and service. This place is such a great way to spend with your loved ones.read more

Anytime I come home I always beg my parents to take me here. It has such a great ambiance and…read moreservice. Crystal is super helpful and sweet! I recommend coming before 5 to beat the crowd!

Steamer with pork and beef

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Chicken karaage

Avenue Shabu

4.4(446 reviews)

8.3 mi

We went with the premium AYCE menu and got our money's worth by piling plates up high with wagyu…read moreand ribeye! Note: There's a 90-minute time limit and no wait time between tablet orders. I love that everyone gets their own individual hot pot and choice of broth. Ordering meat through the tablet couldn't be easier. The buffet bar offers everything from seafood, vegetables, and mushrooms to sauces and even sushi. The staff kept everything running smoothly. They brought out our meat almost as soon as we ordered it, cleared away empty plates in no time, and stopped by often to top off our broths. The variety of food and speedy service make this a great spot for casual dates, hangouts, or family outings.

We came on a Friday night for a family dinner and were seated right away. We got a table next to…read morethe food buffet, which was convenient. They have a great selection of broths, noodles, and meats. They also have hot drops at the sauce station, which is a must for me when having hot pot! The meats came out quickly after we placed our orders on the tablet. Service was great. The staff stopped by many times to refill our broth and make sure we had everything we needed. They also offer a senior discount, which is great for my mom since she doesn't eat that much. Overall, we had a great experience. Good selection, fast service, and attentive staff. Would definitely come back!

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Bathroom

Premium Sliced Beef

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Avenue shabu

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119 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Daniel J.

Elite 21

333

161

494

3 years ago

During our first visit to Tabu Shabu in Costa Mesa, my fiance and I had a mixed experience. While the lady assisting us was thorough in explaining how the restaurant works, we found certain aspects of the dining experience to be confusing and left us with mixed feelings. The informative service provided by the server was commendable. Her detailed explanation of how the restaurant operates helped us navigate the dining experience effectively. However, the menu itself proved to be overwhelming, particularly for first-time visitors. The variety of options and determining the appropriate quantity of meat to order proved to be a challenge. It would have been helpful if the menu had clearer guidelines or suggestions for newcomers. Additionally, I encountered an unexpected cost when I elected to have my meal in porridge form. The additional charge for this option was not mentioned by the staff, which led to a slight disappointment upon receiving the bill. Clear communication about any extra costs would have been appreciated to avoid any surprises. In terms of the overall experience, we found Tabu Shabu to be just okay. The quality of the food was decent, but it didn't leave a lasting impression or make us eager to return. While it may be a suitable option for a casual dining experience, we remain unsure if we would choose to dine there again. In conclusion, Tabu Shabu provided informative service and an interesting dining concept. However, the confusing menu and unexpected additional costs left us with mixed feelings. It may be worth a visit for those familiar with the menu and seeking a different dining experience, but for us, it didn't leave a lasting impression. read more

Stephen O.

195

2 years ago

Best Shabu Shabu in Orange County California- A Must-Visit in Costa Mesa! My wife and I absolutely love Tabu Shabu! It's become one of our top go-to spots for a delightful dining experience. The ambiance is perfect for date nights--cozy yet vibrant, exactly what you'd want for a special evening. The service here is top-notch; the staff are always welcoming and attentive, ensuring every meal is a pleasant experience. The highlight, of course, is the food. The shabu-shabu is simply divine, offering a rich variety of fresh, high-quality meats and vegetables to swirl in their deliciously seasoned broths. Every dish is a flavor adventure, and the sauces complement the meal perfectly, enhancing the fresh ingredients without overpowering them. A pro tip: don't let your leftovers go to waste. Ask the staff to turn them into a porridge, which is a comforting and tasty way to end your meal. It's this kind of thoughtful touch that makes Tabu Shabu stand out from the rest. Whether you're a shabu-shabu aficionado or new to this style of dining, Tabu Shabu in Costa Mesa is a culinary gem that's not to be missed. My wife and I are always impressed and already look forward to our next visit! --- read more

Jade D.

2298

161

1110

8 years ago

I really adore Shabu Shabu! Who doesn't like cooking there own broth in a cool bar along the beach? Definitely worth a visit. We arrived here in Costa Mesa, was greeted promptly and sat down on the only 3 low bar seats in the entire restaurant (best seats in the house) All the staff were super friendly, very polite and quick. I only got one of their names; Jose was on point walking us through the menu and it turns out we can customize the veggie plate and the Mega Man portion of meat- I ended up getting half Certified Angus Beef Ribeye and Prime ribeye. The meat was amazingly sliced and consistent with the size and marbling. They even gave an extra few ounces I noticed (whoever was the meat cutter, you did a fantastic job) and the veggie plates were beautiful and fresh although that is standard in Shabu. The broth at the end was epic, I finished all of the food in front of me. I could tell that the people who worked here had a passion for serving great food and connection. The ambiance felt like we were at Venice beach with the artwork on the walls and video game references (haha geek out real quick) the sauces were perfect and the meat too so I couldn't be happier on Father's Day read more

Joane B.

179

14 years ago

Being picky with my shabu I was skeptical of this place (I know, I should be more open minded--hell, and I should be less racist but we know we're all a little inside). When we arrived there was a wait, but the staff was very friendly and offered us drinks. After a few hits of sake and beer, we were seated in no time. With choices like shabu, sukiyaki, and barbeque, I was a bit torn on what to try. Our waiter recommended we try a half and half of shabu and sukiyaki. "Sounds like a plan," I said as I opted for the beef combo. The quality of the meat is awesome. Not some crappy protein that turns shit brown and tough; no, this place is legit. Oh, and they have the whole shebang, with the raw egg, sesame sauce, and spicy drops to round out your lunch/dinner experience. They also have all three beers: Kirin, Sapporo, and Asahi. Come on, what's there not to like? read more

Van N.

476

2 years ago

I came to Tabu Shabu on a Friday right before happy hour ended, and they were kind enough to still honor it--great service! This spot has been hyped a lot, and I'd say it's worth the visit, especially with the happy hour discount. Without it, the prices are a bit on the higher side, but the quality makes up for it. I ordered the lamb and beef, both of which were flavorful and satisfying. The highlight was definitely the service of turning my leftover hot pot into porridge--it made for a delicious and hearty late-night meal. It's a lot of food, so you definitely get your fill. Overall, a solid spot for hot pot if you're looking for good quality and unique offerings. Definitely recommend catching happy hour if you can! read more

Andrea S.

14 years ago

Awesome!! This was my first experience with shabu and I am hooked! It was sooo good - fresh and delicious. We stopped in for lunch and had such a great experience I can't wait to go back. We had the rib eye and the salmon, with the spicy miso base. The vegetables were fresh and displayed appetizingly. We couldn't wait to get started "playing with our food". Then the meat was served and oohhh the sauces - the peanut sauce is to die for!! Everything was so tasty and the atmosphere was fun. Great service - everyone was so helpful and knowledgeable - definitely will be going back and introducing my friends to it. Great job Tabu Shabu!!! read more

Nicole L.

1 year ago

I can't say enough great things about this restaurant! The food was absolutely delicious, but what really made the experience stand out was the incredible staff. Ursula, in particular, went above and beyond. After a brief conversation with my two young daughters (ages 3 and 4), she took the time to write personalized notes for each of them. It was such a thoughtful and memorable gesture that truly made our visit special. 10/10 would recommend this place to anyone looking for amazing food and an exceptional dining experience. We'll definitely be coming back--largely because of Ursula's kindness read more

Rachel L.

437

10 months ago

The food here at Shabu is always a hit. Especially during these "fall" months! But you know good soup/food when you can literally have this for dinner multiple times throughout the week! My mans and I have this place at the top of our list due to the consistent quality of food, and the customer service also deserves to be mentioned. Michelle always has a smile on her face and great attitude to match, which isn't always easy to come by these days. Definitely recommend this spot for date night with your person or friends! Ask for Michelle and let her know Rachel sent you! Thank me later! read more

Cyndy K.

125

10 years ago

I love this place been coming here for a few years now. The food is always top quality and beyond delicious. I absolutely love the porridge at the end. (Well I prefer the porridge as my end option!!) The staff is always amazing. I've brought so many first timers here (I personally grew up on it). They really make sure they understand all the options and possibilities that are available. You could say they are the flavor guides on this magical journey of deliciousness. I wish I could give the more than 5 stars and we will be back very soon!! read more

Leah H.

1 year ago

Tabu Shabu is an excellent spot for anyone craving a delightful hot pot experience. The quality of ingredients is top-notch, with fresh meats, vegetables, and a wide variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors. The service is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Overall, Tabu Shabu offers a satisfying, flavorful experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Highly recommended for hot pot lovers. read more

Cuqui C.

219

13 years ago

This place has a very friendly staff who's always happy to see customers. It has a very relaxing vibe with hip music playing in the background and Japanese wall art all around the restaurant. The food is healthy & delicious. The meats are sliced thin and cooks within seconds in the hot broth. The sauces are flavorful and compliments the cooked meats and fresh veggies perfectly. You have a choice between white or brown rice. If your really hungry you can ask for a big bowl of rice which my boyfriend usually does. read more

K P.

10 years ago

I literally love this place! Come here all the time and have never once been disappointed... The management is on point and all the staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. Tabu Shabu is a great spot for dates or showing off local gems to friends and family who may not know whats really good in O.C. Special shout out to my girl Michelle! She knows how to treat a guest and you couldn't ask for a better smile! Go to Tabu Shabu you won't be disappointed. read more

Rose C.

11 months ago

I was really disappointed with this Shabu Shabu spot in Costa Mesa. The soup base was completely plain with almost no flavor, and the meal felt overpriced for what you actually get. The rice tasted old, like it had been sitting out too long, and the portions of meat were so small that it wasn't even enough to get full. Service was slow, the restaurant was extremely loud, and overall the experience just wasn't worth the price. Definitely not coming back. read more

James K.

112

14 years ago

Came here during opening week. This place is amazing! Cool hip vibe, open later than everything around, and great food. Had the prime rib eye with spicy miso broth. Meat was best I've had, veggies solid, and the noodle soup that the server prepared for me (nice added service) was epic. Great date spot with lots of eye candy haha. FYI their sesame sauce was amazing. If you are on the eastside of costs Mesa be sure to check this place out! read more

Christine L.

309

121

13 years ago

Favorite spot for Shabu! This place packs up quick, so go early! On Tuesdays they have two for one on drinks - so rad. Get the sukiyaki broth + rib eye and you won't be disappointed. Any meat they have is good bye the rib eye is my favorite. Also ask for the raw pasteurized egg to dip the meat in. I was nervous about it at first but it's really, really good on he beef. 5 stars forever!!!! read more

Cardin H.

9 years ago

I came here last Sunday with my girlfriend and had an amazing experience. The food was delicious and you can tell it was the best quality meats. The service was great and very attentive! They helped us well with picking the meats and sake! The price is very decent just like any other places. New favorite place to eat! You gotta try it! It's really deserved 5 stars! read more

Hanneke A.

566

5 years ago

We love this place and come often. I made a mistake and made my broth with too much of a white pepper flavor... Jose literally came up with a crazy combination to add to my broth to make it better: he then created that broth for me to take home with my leftovers. He then THANKED US for saying something because some people don't. Jose made our night! read more

Michelle L.

14 years ago

This shabu place is the BEST to go to in Orange County. It's super cool, cozy, clean, steazy and stylish. Everything we have ordered there has been amazing and the staff was friendly and helpful. The owner is so friendly and walks around to ask how everything is. He has made a truly amazing spot to PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD!!! YAY TABU! read more

Heather G.

14 years ago

This place is so yummy. The whole experience is really fun. The servers were nice, my water was always filled, and i got a free saki shot!!! I made a rice porridge after i cooked everything and that was delicious. I wish i wasn't so full because that was almost better than cooking everything my self!! Perfect for a chilly night. read more

Eric Irwin ..

3 years ago

What can I say. This is our favorite restaurant. We've been coming here regularly for years! By far the best Shabu I've ever had... flavored broths & incredible meat quality! Staff is always incredible. Special shout-out to our favorite Ursula! Jeff has an amazing team and an incredible restaurant that's continuing to grow! read more

Tabu Shabu - Costa Mesa - japanese - Updated September 2026

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