Little Q Hot Pot has been serving Arlington’s hungry masses for almost a decade now. And it’s not just a hot pot spot — which is to say, try the Sichuan eggplant next time you’re over there.

Yuki Shabu is a sleeper hit in Somerville’s Union Square. The hot pot is simple, served with either beef, chicken, pork, or fish balls, along with a bunch of vegetables. Be sure to order the special fried dumplings (pork, shrimp, and bamboo shoots), too.

Shabu & Mein has so, so many meat and seafood options for its hot pot. Like, more than 30 options. It’s a bit overwhelming, so just do the right thing and get the lobster tail.

Shabu-Zen in Allston is the baby brother of a restaurant of the same name in Chinatown — both mainstays in the scene. The quality of both shops is equally high, but head to the Allston outpost because the space itself is...a trip. Many rooms, all with slightly different decor. A great bar at which to drink, and another great square-shaped bar at which to eat.

The hot pot is Kaze’s specialty, but customers can also get ramen, bibimbap, and a number of fusion dishes at the restaurant (aka the Ghostbusters headquarters).

Hot Pot Buffet is, as the name would suggest, a buffet-style joint: all you can eat for under $20. And it’s under $15 for lunch. One of the best deals going.

Shabu Restaurant in Quincy has something the rest of the spots on this map do not: a Japanese garden. There are few better pleasures than eating delicious hot pot outdoors.