If you’re craving an authentic hot pot experience in Manila, Tian Mansion Hot Pot at SM Mall of Asia should be at the top of your list. This isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a dining journey that immerses you in Chinese culinary tradition, from the rustic teahouse-inspired interiors to the ornate dragon-themed hot pot bubbling at your table.

As a food and travel enthusiast, I’m on the lookout for unique dining experiences that showcase the rich flavors of Asian cuisine. When my family and I decided to visit Tian Mansion, we had no idea we were in for such a feast for the senses—one filled with rich flavors, intricate presentation, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. By the time we left, we knew one thing for sure: Tian Mansion Hot Pot isn’t just about food; it’s an experience worth savoring.

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Stepping Into an Old-World Chinese Teahouse

The moment you step into Tian Mansion, it feels like you’ve been transported to another era. The interior design is thoughtfully crafted—rich wooden furnishings, the soft glow of red lanterns, and a cozy ambiance reminiscent of an old rustic Chinese teahouse. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, take a deep breath, and prepare for a slow, satisfying meal shared with good company.

There’s something special about places that put so much care into their aesthetic and atmosphere. Every detail sets the mood, building anticipation for the flavors to come. An Asian Traveler invites you to embrace these moments—where dining is more than just eating; it’s an experience to be savored.

Diving Into the Hot Pot Experience

As a group of four, we opted for the ₱3,299 set meal, which turned out to be an absolute feast. Here’s what it included:

• Premium beef slices
• Sliced pork belly
• Luncheon meat
• Crab slices
• Meatball combinations
• Golden steamed bread
• Assorted vegetables
• Golden mushrooms
• Vegetable noodles
• Langzhou vermicelli

Everything was fresh, beautifully presented, and abundant. Some meat slices were even garnished with delicate red flowers, an artistic touch that made the meal feel extra special.

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A Soup Base That Stole the Show

Tian Mansion offers two soup bases:

• Pig feet soup – rich, collagen-packed, and full of deep, comforting flavors
• Mushroom soup – earthy, light, and aromatic

At the staff’s recommendation, we chose the pig feet soup, and it did not disappoint. Savory, hearty, and brimming with depth, it elevated every ingredient we dipped into it. If you love bold, umami-packed broths, this one’s a winner.

Pro tip: The dipping sauces aren’t included in the set meal and cost ₱70 per person. While some might hesitate at the additional cost, the variety and quality of the sauces make them worth every peso.

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Little Touches That Made a Big Difference

One of the unexpected highlights of our meal? The complimentary plum syrup drink—a slightly sweet, tangy refresher that balanced out the richness of the hot pot. I had already ordered a peach oolong tea, so I ended up with two drinks, but no regrets—the oolong tea was delightfully fragrant.

And let’s talk about the hot pot itself. It wasn’t just any pot; it was a magnificent cauldron adorned with two intricate dragon heads. Watching the ingredients simmer in this beautifully crafted piece of art made the experience all the more immersive.