Sharing a bubbling hot pot at Little Sheep is a social event, but their dinner-only service means you can’t plan a midday visit. That is why knowing the exact Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot Opening Breakfast Lunch And Holiday Hours is so important before you head out the door. You don’t want to show up at 11:30 AM with a hungry group, only to find the doors locked.
Most locations follow a strict schedule that starts in the late afternoon. This guide breaks down the standard times, how holidays shift the schedule, and what to do if you need a lunch fix.
Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot Opening Breakfast Lunch And Holiday Hours
First, the bad news for early birds. Little Sheep does not serve breakfast. They also do not serve lunch at most corporate-owned stores. The kitchen typically fires up right before dinner service begins.
Here is the standard weekly breakdown you can expect:
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM (weekend lunch only)
- Sunday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM (weekend lunch only)
Notice that Saturday and Sunday are the only days you can get a midday bowl of broth. If you work a 9-to-5 job, your only weekday option is the evening shift.
Why No Weekday Lunch Service
The broth takes hours to prepare. The signature soup base is simmered for a long time to develop the complex flavors. Rushing that process for a 90-minute lunch rush is not practical for their kitchen team.
Also, hot pot is a slow dining experience. You cook your own meat and vegetables at the table. That does not fit the quick-turnaround model of a typical lunch break. Most customers spend 60 to 90 minutes at the table, which is too long for a standard lunch hour.
Holiday Schedule Changes
Holidays are where things get tricky. The hours above change significantly during major US holidays. You cannot assume they are open just because the mall or shopping center is open.
Here is what usually happens on key dates:
- Thanksgiving: Closed all day. No exceptions.
- Christmas Day: Closed all day.
- New Year’s Day: Opens later, usually 4:00 PM.
- Independence Day (July 4th): Normal dinner hours, but call ahead.
- Labor Day / Memorial Day: Weekend hours apply (12:00 PM open).
Do not rely on memory for these dates. The holiday schedule varies by franchise owner. A location in a tourist district might stay open on Thanksgiving, while a suburban spot will close.
How To Confirm Your Local Store Hours
You have three reliable ways to check the exact times for your specific location. Do not guess.
- Call the store directly: This is the fastest method. Ask for the manager and confirm the holiday hours.
- Check Google Maps: Look at the “Popular Times” graph. It shows live data from the last few weeks. If it shows a lunch bump on Saturday, they are open.
- Use the official app: The Little Sheep app lists store-specific hours. It updates faster than third-party sites.
Avoid calling during peak dinner hours (7:00 PM to 8:30 PM). The staff is busy and the phone might ring unanswered. Call at 3:00 PM or right after they open.
What About The Weekend Lunch Menu
If you do go for the Saturday or Sunday lunch, expect a limited menu. The full dinner spread is not always available. Some locations only offer set lunch combos or a smaller selection of meats.
Ask if the “All You Can Eat” option is available during lunch. Many franchises restrict this to dinner service only. You might have to order a la carte instead.
Peak Hour Waits
Even with the correct hours, you need to plan for a wait. Friday nights and Saturday evenings are packed. The wait time can reach 45 minutes for a table of four.
To avoid the rush:
- Arrive right at opening time (5:00 PM) on weekdays.
- Go at 2:00 PM on Saturday or Sunday for a late lunch.
- Join the waitlist through the app before you leave your house.
If you arrive at 7:00 PM on a Friday without a reservation, you will wait. There is no way around it.
Final Schedule Summary
To keep it simple: Monday through Friday is dinner only. Saturday and Sunday include a lunch window. Holidays are unpredictable and require a phone call.
One last tip: if you are planning a birthday or group event, call at least 48 hours in advance. The private rooms book up fast, and the holiday hours might not apply to private dining bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Little Sheep serve breakfast?
No. They do not serve breakfast at any location. The earliest opening time is 12:00 PM on weekends.
Can I get lunch on a Tuesday?
No. Weekday lunch is not available. The store opens at 5:00 PM from Monday to Friday.
Are the hours different for the hot pot buffet?
Yes. The buffet option (if available) usually starts 30 minutes later than the regular kitchen. Check with your specific store.
Do they open early on Chinese New Year?
Sometimes. Some locations open at 3:00 PM for the holiday. It is not guaranteed, so call ahead.
What happens if I arrive 15 minutes before closing?
You will likely be turned away. The kitchen needs time to clean the broth stations. Arrive at least 45 minutes before closing time.