DPOT Unlimited in Irvine: Korean Fusion Hot Pot with a Modern Twist
Discover DPOT Unlimited Irvine, a Korean fusion hot pot spot known for its unique Steam Stacker, all-you-can-eat dining, and modern outdoor seating.
At DPOT Unlimited in Irvine, it’s not just about hot pot—it’s about rethinking the way you experience it. Whether it’s their signature Steam Stacker or the outdoor tables designed for DIY cooking, DPOT brings something new to the table for Korean fusion fans.
A Family Business, Built from the Ground Up
DPOT’s story begins with two brothers and a shared passion for food and entrepreneurship. Steve, the older of the two, opened the first DPOT Unlimited in Buena Park, marking his first venture into both business and the restaurant world. Inspired by his success, his younger brother Tim opened the second location in Irvine, with Erica Lee stepping in as General Manager.
“For me, it’s kind of rewarding to see a small business start from the bottom and then build itself up,” Erica shares. “I first started with the Buena Park location when it was opening up six, seven years ago. And then Irvine opened maybe three, four years ago.”
When choosing Irvine for their second location, the family was drawn to the city’s warm, family-oriented community—a perfect match for their vision of a welcoming dining space.
The Steam Stacker: A Must-Try Dish That Sets DPOT Apart
While DPOT offers plenty of the hot pot classics, there’s one dish that steals the show: the Steam Stacker. This standout item layers fresh vegetables and thinly sliced meats in a cypress wood box (Hinoki), then steams them to perfection. The result? A fragrant, delicate flavor enhanced by the subtle aroma of the wood—said to have stress-relieving properties.
“In Korea, they do a lot of steaming, so we took inspiration from that,” Erica explains. “It’s just unique. No other places have it, and I like that I can use different sauces to make it my own dish.”
For Erica, the Steam Stacker is a personal favorite—and for guests, it’s quickly become a must-order item.
A Space Designed for Community and Comfort
DPOT Irvine features 30 to 35 tables, including outdoor patio seating—a rarity for hot pot restaurants. It wasn’t without challenges. As Erica points out, setting up burners outdoors for a cook-it-yourself meal wasn’t simple, but they made it work by installing portable burners directly into the patio tables.
“The outdoor seating was a challenge,” Erica says. “But we managed to make it work. People love having the option, especially with the great weather here.”
The space strikes a balance between modern and comfortable, making it a popular spot for family dinners, group gatherings, and casual nights out.
Stop by DPOT Unlimited Irvine
Whether you’re a hot pot pro or trying it for the first time, DPOT Unlimited Irvine offers a fresh take on the all-you-can-eat experience, backed by quality ingredients, innovative dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.