An interview with Wen Lou, the manager of China City Wettingen
As we prepare our first "Hotpot Culture Event" together with the "China Foods Alliance" on 18 May 2025, we wanted to find out more about the significance of this popular dish. And who better to help us than Wen Lou, the owner of the "China City Restaurant" in Wettingen?
Wen grew up in Shanghai and hotpot has been a part of her whole life. We sat down with her to find out more about her memories, traditions and how hotpot still shapes her culinary journey today. When Wen Lou talks about her childhood memories, she gets all nostalgic.
Who, what does hotpot mean to you personally?
For me, hotpot is more than just food, it's a feeling of home and togetherness. In Shanghai, where I grew up, hotpot was a staple food in winter. It's warm, cosy and everyone gathers around the table. It's very similar to raclette or fondue here in Switzerland, everyone sits together, chatting and sharing stories. It's really about bonding.
Wen Lou from China City indulges in childhood memories
What are your earliest memories of Hotpot?
That was definitely in my childhood. My grandmother used to have up to 20 people round the table for Chinese New Year. The house was full of energy and the hotpot was always the centre of attention. Sometimes we celebrated with up to 60 people, so we had to split into two groups.
What does a typical hotpot get-together in your family look like?
We always set up two round tables, one for the adults and one for the children. There were no phones back then, so we had real conversations, maybe the TV was on quietly in the background, but everyone was focussed on the food. The children chatted amongst themselves, sometimes even about their crushes at school, that was all part of it. After the meal, the older ones played mahjong and the children watched TV or went outside to play.
What's your favourite thing in your hotpot?
I love a good spicy Sichuan broth, but not too spicy! We usually go for seafood, fish balls and meatballs and not so much chicken. We don't have lamb on the table at home, it's just a matter of taste in our family!
How are you celebrating hotpot today?
It's no longer just something for the festive season. We now eat hotpot all year round, even in summer! At home, we keep it simple with a simple broth and homemade sauces. At the restaurant, there's more choice and creativity, so it feels like a feast every time.
What makes Hotpot so special for you?
It's the most sociable food I know. It's not only in your stomach, but also in your heart. Living between Chinese and Swiss cultures, hotpot helps me stay connected to my roots and share that warmth with others here.
Do your Swiss guests like hotpot too?
Definitely! At first they are sometimes curious, even a little unsure. But once they try it, they love how interactive, sociable and personal it is. The choice of broth, ingredients and dipping sauces makes it a unique experience for everyone.
What can guests expect at the next hotpot event?
We will bring together everything I love about hotpot: traditional flavours, modern twists and above all the spirit of sharing. I can't wait to bring the joy of hotpot to more people - it's not just a dish, it's a celebration of life and community.
What can guests expect at the next hotpot event?
We will bring together everything I love about hotpot: traditional flavours, modern twists and above all the spirit of sharing. I can't wait to bring the joy of hotpot to more people - it's not just a dish, it's a celebration of life and community.
Would you like to experience it for yourself?
Come to the first Hotpot Culture Event on 18 May 2025, which will take place together with the China Foods Alliance at China City Wettingen. Taste, learn and celebrate this legendary dish with us!
