Chubby Cattle Wagyu Shabu House has landed in Novi, bringing with it a meticulous, globally inspired approach to the all-you-can-eat hotpot experience. Situated on Grand River Ave, this is the Chubby Group’s first Michigan outpost, a bold Midwest debut that leans into Japanese culinary traditions while offering a lively, modern environment for communal cooking and discovery.
The concept is rooted in premium wagyu, particularly Japanese A5, complemented by seafood, sushi, and an assortment of broths and sauces. Guests select from three pricing tiers, starting at $48 and topping out at $78 for access to the most exclusive A5 cuts. Even at the highest tier, the price remains remarkably accessible considering the quality and variety of ingredients offered.
Let’s start with the standout: the Japanese A5 wagyu shoulder clod and chuck ribeye, which deserve a category of their own. These cuts are deeply marbled and arrive fresh to the table, ready for quick cooking in a simmering pot. At just 3 to 5 seconds per slice, they’re best enjoyed lightly swished—what the Japanese call shabu-shabu—until the fat begins to soften and the beef takes on a velvety texture. The flavor is rich and clean, with an almost creamy mouthfeel that doesn’t linger heavily on the palate. It’s an indulgence, yes, but one that feels purposeful and restrained rather than over-the-top. Five out of five stars.
Equally deserving of recognition are the house and sukiyaki broths. The former is a savory, balanced base that complements both seafood and red meat without overshadowing their natural flavors. The latter offers a gently sweet soy profile that clings beautifully to wagyu, enhancing the umami without becoming cloying.
From the seafood platter, the mussels, abalone, and tilapia were particularly well-handled. The mussels were plump and fresh, the abalone tender with just enough bite, and the tilapia surprisingly delicate, holding its own in the broth. The shrimp tempura was a welcome addition—crispy and light, though not the focus of the experience.
A sleeper hit was the minced wagyu and wagyu curry over rice, served in portions precisely measured by an automated rice machine. The curry had depth and spice without overwhelming the subtle wagyu, and the rice was perfectly cooked. It’s a humble dish presented with care and precision, a reminder that wagyu doesn’t always need theatrics.
The atmosphere is bright and animated, thanks to its anime-inspired design language and an open, fast-paced layout. It’s meant to be an interactive experience, which works well for groups and dates but may not appeal to those seeking a slow, intimate dinner. The 90-minute dining window reinforces this rhythm. Ambiance: 4 out of 5 stars.
As a whole, the value is undeniable. The quality-to-price ratio, especially for those indulging in the Japanese A5 tier, is rare in this category of dining. Tiered pricing allows flexibility without compromising on freshness or variety. Price rating: 5 stars.
Food overall earns a 4.5, with the A5 wagyu as the undeniable centerpiece, warranting its own perfect score. Chubby Cattle’s Novi location successfully balances playful design with culinary seriousness, offering an experience that’s both accessible and deeply satisfying.
Final rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars – a well-executed, high-value introduction to wagyu hotpot that delivers on both concept and flavor.
Miss AJ’s First Bite:
- Ambiance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Food Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
- Japanese A5 Wagyu: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
