Serious Eats - seriouseats.com

BEST shabu shabu ever!!! We even went to a shabu shabu restaurant in Tokyo, Japan, that came highly recommended by Lonely Planet, but it couldn't even compare. Shabu Shabu House is the most delicious meal you could imagine.

For novices, it's important to note that there isn't a "line" per se, but a written list of people waiting to eat. You need to go inside the restaurant, to the right-hand counter, and write your name on the list. Yoshi then comes around calling out names when spots open up. The wait is always long, but sooo worth it. Just DON'T be absent when your time nears, or Yoshi will simply cross you off the list and you'll have to sign in at the bottom again. If you aren't sure how much time you have to kill, just ask him what he estimates -- usually you'll have at least 30 minutes to browse around the plaza before your name is called.

If you've never had shabu shabu before and are confused about the process, Yoshi is happy to show you how it's done. The best part of the whole thing is the ponzu dipping sauce (the dark brown stuff that looks like soy sauce) -- add lots of the garlic and green onions and your taste buds will be throwing a party.

Another thing: Shabu Shabu House patrons are very serious about their grub, and because it's a very small joint, it's all about chowing fast. Unless you want some seriously dirty looks and a few crabby comments from the ravenous waiting customers, do not linger over your meal. Eat fast and get out so others can sit down and enjoy. Don't forget that the restaurant will validate your parking stub, too!

Enjoy ... and be prepared to return again and again and again!