Promote a Happy Hour Pairing of Shabu Shabu with Wine
Who says Happy Hour has to be all about cocktails and snacks? At California Shabu, we’re redefining your after-work wind-down with a unique experience that pairs the cozy, communal joy of hot pot with a curated selection of wines. From the first swirl of your glass to the last flavorful sip of broth, this Happy Hour is one to savor.
Why Hot Pot and Wine Make the Perfect Pair
Hot pot is all about layers of flavor, and so is a good wine! As you dip fresh cuts of meat, seafood, and vegetables into steaming, aromatic broths, the flavors build and change. A crisp, refreshing wine can enhance this experience, cutting through the richness of the broth while balancing the flavors on your palate. Wine also pairs beautifully with the savory umami of our house-made dipping sauces like Ponzu and Goma.
The Art of Pairing
To make your Happy Hour even better, we’ve carefully selected wines that complement the variety of broths we offer at California Shabu. Whether you prefer our traditional Kombu broth or want to spice things up with Spicy Miso, we have the perfect glass to elevate your hot pot.
Here are some pairings to explore:
Traditional Kombu Broth: This light, savory broth is complemented by a crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. The acidity and fruity notes will bring out the delicate flavors of your meat and vegetables without overpowering them.
Spicy Miso Broth: This bold and flavorful broth pairs excellently with a medium-bodied red wine like a Zinfandel or Shiraz. The slight sweetness and full flavor of these wines balance the heat while enhancing the umami-rich profile of the broth.
Creamy Tonkotsu Pork Broth: A rich broth like Tonkotsu demands a wine that can stand up to its creamy texture and deep flavors. A buttery Chardonnay or an earthy Pinot Noir works perfectly, cutting through the richness while adding depth to every bite.
Tomato Broth: For those who love our tangy and savory Tomato broth, a Chianti or Sangiovese will complement the bright flavors with its own bold, fruity notes. These wines bring out the richness of the tomato while enhancing the subtle sweetness of the fresh ingredients.
Join Us for Happy Hour
Happy Hour at California Shabu isn’t just about great deals (although we have those too). It’s about gathering with friends and unwinding in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our Happy Hour runs from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, offering special prices on both hot pot and select wines.
You’ll enjoy our signature fresh ingredients, including Gulf Shrimp, Atlantic Salmon, and locally sourced vegetables like kabocha squash, tofu, and mushrooms—all while indulging in a glass (or two) of perfectly paired wine. Whether you’re here to celebrate a great day or unwind after a long one, we’ll make sure your Happy Hour is deliciously satisfying.
Plan Your Next Happy Hour at Cal Shabu
Treat yourself to the ultimate pairing of hot pot and wine at California Shabu, located at 3081 Nutley St., Fairfax, VA. Reservations aren’t required, but they’re always recommended—especially if you’re planning to bring a group of friends to kick off the evening.
So why wait? Grab your seat at the table and get ready to dip, sip, and savor this one-of-a-kind Happy Hour experience. Cheers to good food, great wine, and even better company!
For more information or to reserve a spot, call us at (571) 210-2252. We can’t wait to see you at Cal Shabu! ▣
