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Welcome to Tabu Shabu - San Jose

Welcome to Tabu Shabu - San Jose, a hidden gem in the heart of the city, where traditional Japanese hot pot meets modern dining vibes. Our story is rooted in a passion for authentic flavors and memorable experiences. Here, guests embark on a culinary journey, selecting from high-quality meats, fresh vegetables, and a variety of rich broths. Enjoy a casual atmosphere with bar-style seating, perfect for groups or intimate dinners. With notable offerings like our spicy miso and tonkotsu broths, along with a unique twist on traditional sides, Tabu Shabu is not just a meal—it's a celebration of community and comfort. Join us as we create delicious memories together!

Tabu Shabu - San Jose: Reviews & Ratings

Bindi S.
Bindi S.

Had a pleasant experience. Our first time at a hotpot so it was all new to my husband and me. Got the house sake carafe ($10) which was pretty mild and didn't taste much like alcohol. We split the spicy miso broth with fresh kale ramen noodles ($1 upcharge). It was $25. Lots of broth given but the veg plate and noodles were a bit skimpy in my opinion. It is expensive for what you get but it's more about the experience. I wished they gave more noodles though. There is a $5 charge for more noodles which is excessive considering the portion they gave in the first place. Servers were friendly and probably laughing seeing us attempt to eat with chopsticks (form next time). Total for 2-$45

Diane P.
Diane P.

I had a gift card and most recently came here on a chilly Tuesday night. The basketball game was playing on the 2 TVs, we were greeted immediately and there were plenty of seats available. The menu is pretty typical of any other shabu spot. Choose your protein, broth and add-ons. Every set comes with sauce, a plate of veggies and noodles/rice. Each person also gets their own pot. I wouldn't say there's anything extraordinary about Tabu, but the meat quality and portion sizes are quite good for the value! Ramen noodles are +$2, but they're fresh. We opted for the Wagyu beef and lamb options to share. None of the broths are technically spicy, but you can order a spice bomb and/or ask for drops to add to your sauces and broth for free! Some broths like tonkatsu and sukiyaki are $1-2 extra. It just depends on your mood. If you don't want to pay for the upgrade, I also think the regular broths are great. Alcohol was BOGO free because it was a Tuesday. (This deal might change slightly depending on seasonal events ie. Football games, etc). We got some hot sake to go with our meal. Additionally, they offer $1 Sapporo during dinner Monday - Thursday, so I obviously got that too. Hot tea was also free! The servers were super nice and accommodating. Our meal came to about $100 after everything. We left there full, warm and happy. Our waiter even offered to pack my leftover broth for me, so I could make it into porridge at home the next day! It was delicious and lasted me 2 more meals! The vibe here is casual. The seating set up is just one huge island that goes around the entire restaurant, so probably not great for huge groups who are trying to move about and mingle throughout the meal. But they do have a cute lit sign on the wall if you want to pair your meal with an IG photo. Thanks for the delicious food, deals and service, Tabu Shabu! We are so excited to come again back soon.

Helen H.
Helen H.

Tabu Shabu was my favorite hotpot, shabu-shabu spot for awhile, and I feel like they're relatively underrated! It's a cozy hotpot spot, with bar style seating. It isn't AYCE, but they have a step-by-step menu that's easy to follow and the meal comes with a lot of sides. One thing I will say is that the service is always great here, the staff is super helpful and attentive. They even let me and my boyfriend take a polaroid for their wall, so cute!!! I've been to Tabu Shabu so many times now I think I've perfected my order so far ;). I always go with the Spicy Miso and Tonkotsu broth mix and it never does me wrong, always super flavorful and savory. As for meats, I usually go with Prime Beef Belly and Angus Ribeye. The meat here is really good quality compared to other hotpot spots. You also get to choose a rice and noodle, and it comes with a veggie plate! I've also had the Cucumber Salad, which I feel is skippable. I used to love the sauces here too, it comes with ponzu and a creamy sesame sauce but they recently changed the sesame sauce and it isn't my favorite. They have hot drops as well which I usually add to my broth and sauce (if I'm feeling brave). Overall, Tabu Shabu is a really solid spot and was my comfort meal for awhile. I would highly recommend!

Tiffany P.
Tiffany P.

We came here for happy hour on a Friday around 5:30. Happy hour is Monday-Friday 5-6PM and you get 20% off your meal! I got the regular short rib with spicy miso broth. I love Tabu Shabu since the portions are perfect for me! If you have a bigger appetite, I'd definitely recommend getting the large since the regular might not be enough for most people. I like getting either kale or udon noodles here. I also recommend getting hot drops if you like your sauces or broth to be spicier! The service is always amazing and I will definitely be coming back!

Joanne L.
Joanne L.

$16.99 weekday lunch set is an absolute steal! I would recommend getting their chuck eye roll instead of beef belly if you prefer lean meat like me. The meat is cut on the thinner side but it came in a generous portion. I paired it with their tonkatsu broth and it also came with a plate of veggies and rice on the side. Safe to say, I walked out feeling pleasantly satisfied with the shabu shabu. I hope this lunch deal is here to stay!

Janet N.
Janet N.

Tabu Shabu is a great shabu shabu place with individual pots and more options for protein than other establishments I have seen. There are also additional add-ons to really elevate your shabu experience if you wanted or you can keep it classic. The layout of the restaurant is a little unusual as they are side by side seating, so no sharing of a communal pot. Something to keep in mind if you are dining in a large group and looking for that social aspect. However, the interior is clean, not too steamy or greasy feeling. IYKYK. Music is also not too loud, so you are able to hear the person next to you just fine. Seated promptly on a Friday night with no wait and was served. I appreciate that they ask each customer about any food allergies or restrictions so they can educate them on the menu and/or what sauces to provide. Ordering is easy, just follow the menu. You get to choose broth, protein, rice and type of noodle. Be mindful that some broth is premium that comes as an extra charge. I like that they offer not only beef or pork for protein, but chicken, lamb, salmon (sashimi grade) as well as shrimp. You can also get two proteins as a combo. I would estimate about 12 ounces of protein for their large plates. The assortment of vegetables that you get with your meal is plentiful and the rice and noodle serving is more than enough for one person. I appreciate that you can cook your noodles or rice at the end of the meal for you to take home as a second meal. I was not a big fan of the brown rice, but just a small thing to pick at. Sauces provided are the usual ponzu and gomadare with grated daikon, scallions and garlic to dress them up. For those who want more of a spicy kick, they do offer pure cap hot drops in either your broth or sauce, just let them know! Service was pleasant and prompt! Happy Hour is weekdays 5-6 pm for 20% off your meal price, which is a great deal! You can always add yourself to the Yelp waitlist and check status if there happens to be a wait.

Rachel L.
Rachel L.

My friend and I came here and had their $16.99 Shabu Lunch Weekday Special, which comes with one choice of broth, one plate of meat (choose from angus beef belly, chucky eye roll, lamb shoulder, natural chicken), a veggie platter, a choice of noodles, and a choice of rice. Sauce fixings are already included. I ordered the spicy miso broth and chose chuck eye roll as my meat, while my friend got the tonkotsu broth and angus beef belly. Both broths were flavorful but not overpowering, and the meats were a great ratio of marbling. I loved how balanced the meal was and I felt extremely full but not sickly full after eating. I'm used to chinese hot pot and all the sauce options they give, so that's the only thing that I thought was lacking. There was one main waitress working while we dined, and she was super nice! Checked up on us very often and was helpful in turning our heat up or down. The restaurant is set up bar-style on an island.

Timothy N.
Timothy N.

Came for the $16.99 lunch special (M-F, some broths are an up-charge) and honestly fairly happy. + Vegetable plate is slightly customizable. They let you substitute veggies for the others. No more wasting or needing to hand off unliked veggies to others in your group like mushrooms. + Meat marbling looks pretty nice for the price + Service is great. Kenny, who I believe was our host/server was pretty on top of ensuring everything was going smoothly. Water check ups and lowering our heat (since its not customer controlled) without needing us to flag him down. + Menu/inclusions, most shabu places I know, either give you rice or ramen, so its nice to get both here - Not really a fan of limited broth choices, only 2 options are free and the other two have an up-charge. If they pick up Shabuway's curry tonkotsu I think I'd have no downsides. Nonetheless, very limited downsides but overall a great lunch option with their special. Service is great as the seating arrangement guarantees you can be seen when you need help.

Location

Welcome to Tabu Shabu - San Jose, a delightful gem nestled at 1410 El Paseo De Saratoga in the heart of San Jose, CA. This Japanese hot pot restaurant offers a cozy and trendy atmosphere that’s perfect for groups and intimate dining alike. Whether you’re a hot pot aficionado or a newcomer to the shabu-shabu experience, Tabu Shabu promises not just a meal, but an adventure in flavors.

Why Choose Tabu Shabu?

  • Diverse Broth Options: Choose from an array of broths, including the savory Spicy Miso and rich Tonkotsu. Each broth elevates the quality of the fresh ingredients, providing a base that's both rich and flavorful.
  • Quality Ingredients: Customers rave about the premium cuts of meat, including Wagyu beef and Angus ribeye, which are perfectly suited to the hot pot method. The freshness and quality stand out among local competitors.
  • Inclusive Options: Catering to various diets, Tabu Shabu offers vegan and vegetarian selections, ensuring everyone at the table can find something to enjoy. Each meal comes with an assortment of fresh veggies and noodles or rice.
  • Engaging Experience: Each diner receives their own pot, fostering a fun interactive meal where ingredients are cooked to personal preference. Enjoy the process of selecting sauces and spices, creating a culinary experience unique to you.
  • Value for Money: Especially notable are the weekday lunch specials at just $16.99, which are a steal considering the generous portion sizes and quality ingredients provided.
  • Convenient Amenities: With features like delivery, takeout, outdoor seating, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and pets alike, Tabu Shabu makes it easy to enjoy a delightful meal any way you choose.

As you settle into the vibrant and inviting atmosphere, you are sure to delight in their happy hour, offering fantastic deals on select drinks and dishes. The restaurant’s layout encourages social interaction, making it a great place for family gatherings or casual outings with friends. The enthusiastic staff goes above and beyond, making each visit memorable and enjoyable.

For an exceptional evening filled with delicious food and delightful company, Tabu Shabu - San Jose is a must-visit. Allow your taste buds to explore the hearty depth of shabu-shabu while surrounded by a lively ambiance that perfectly complements the quality of the dishes served. Prepare for a hot pot experience that will leave you eager to return!

Call ahead at (620) 603-0338 to make your reservations and get ready to dive into a delightful culinary journey at Tabu Shabu!