Words by: Kayla Hamilton
Adding to the diversity of Rundle Street’s latest openings, restaurant Wu Fei Hot Pot has brought hot pot to the city’s East End.
Located in the strip of new eateries next to Centrepoint carpark, Wu Fei Hot Pot is aiming to create the comforting atmosphere of the popular Chinese dish in their cosy new quarters.
You may remember it as the long-time site of the KBS Convenience Store. Struggling with bigger named competitors opening on Rundle Street, the KBS owner decided that a change of pace was in order.
Closing the store and opening Wu Fei Hot Pot in its place, owner Ariel Deng immediately noticed the change of pace.
“It was just too much competition owning a convenience store,” Deng states, “that’s why opening a restaurant seemed like a better option.”
“There are not many places for hot pot in Adelaide, especially on Rundle Street,” she goes on to say.
“No more struggling.”
The restaurant’s name seems to reflect this change in approach. Wu Fei, meaning no trouble and peace, as well as relaxing time seems to reflect Ariel Deng’s newfound approach.
Walking in, the atmosphere also feels relaxed. The air was tinged with the aromas of ginger and chilli. An all-wooden interior creates a modern feel. The corgi-covered curtains blocking off the view of the kitchen are a cute touch.
The landscape of hot pot dining has changed over the years. Once a communal dish, the change of lifestyle has created a need for a solo version, leading to a serve-yourself style of eating being introduced.
Wu Fei Hot Pot is one of these new style hot point restaurants. Customers can customise their meals, choosing ingredients from the vast selection spread across a refrigerated buffet.
These ingredients include fresh vegetables, thinly sliced cuts of meat, tofu, rice and fish cakes and even a range of different noodles. Charged by weight, it is then up to you to decide what soup base that takes your fancy.
With a range of bases available, from mild and light to rich and spicy- you can even elect to have your ingredients in a dry, stir fry style.
Currently in their soft-opening period, with operations only starting on Friday the 21st, the owner hopes to continually add more to its current offerings.
With no online presence yet, she is still in the process of transitioning into this new journey for the 184 Rundle Street location.
If Ariel Deng’s optimism and the fragrant aroma wafting out of the kitchen go by, Wu Fei Hot Pot is going to have a bright future ahead.
Wu Fei Hot Pot
Where: 184 Rundle Street, Adelaide, 500
Opening times: Mon-Thurs 12pm-9pm Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm Sunday 12pm-10pm Walk-ins only.
