KTVN Channel 2 - Reno Tahoe News Weather, Video - Places 2 Check Out: 168 Cafe

A group of Chinese exchange students like to come to 168 Cafe because it reminds them of home. And mostly because the hot pots. It's a way of boiling food. Hot broth cooks meat, fish and vegetables until they are perfectly done. Hot pots are used all over China. And now you can try them here in Reno.

But how do you do it?  

Owner Ellen Woo, is always willing to help you. It begins with the broth, it's a secret recipe of dried cardamom, tomatoes, special broth recipe and ju ju beans. Next the meat. Thin slices of lamb or beef cook in about 15 seconds.It picks up the flavors from the boiling broth but what makes it good is the sauce you mix it in.  It's a combination of cilantro, garlic, peanut paste and more that creates a flavorful explosion in your mouth.

The shrimp cook in about 3 minutes. You know they're done when they're curled up and pink.  The vegetables are all exotic. From the mushrooms to the taro root to the lotus. The red side is the spicy side, the white is more mild. 168 Cafe does have regular Chinese food you would expect to see, but follow the Chinese and give the hot pot a try. 

168 Cafe is located at 2303 S. Virginia St. #5.  It's across Virginia Street from the Parklane Mall movie theaters.  It's open daily from 11am to 2am.  For more information, call 775-622-3098.