Japanese sushi and steak restaurant Hot Stone first opened its doors in the rather unexpected location of Islington’s Chapel Market, proving that high-quality sushi can be found in the capital outside of SW1. For its second location, Hot Stone has hot footed it to the more appropriate surrounds of central London, opening on Fitzrovia’s Windmill Street.
Much like its sibling, the dining room here is a chic and minimalist affair. Wooden accents permeate the long, narrow dining room while olive green chairs and a botanical mural towards the back of the room add both colour and character. As for Hot Stone’s menu, you can expect to find the restaurant’s signature Ishiyaki fare, which is inspired by the traditional Japanese art of cooking meat on sizzling hot stones (and where the restaurant gets its name from). Alongside this main event, there are also a few more familiar Japanese favourites, including fresh sushi and sashimi and hot dishes such as miso black cod which has been marinated for 48 hours.
Although the menu is largely similar to the original Islington location, Hot Stone Fitzrovia does offer a few new dishes, including Hamachi cheeks (a kind of yellowtail tuna). The restaurant also serves certified Kobe beef, which is a rare find in the UK, alongside freshly grated Japanese wasabi to add cautiously or liberally to your sushi, depending on your preference.
Once you have enjoyed the theatrics of cooking your dinner on a hot stone, you can move on to dessert. Puddings don’t tend to be the highlight of Japanese dining and the selection at Hot Stone is short, consisting of a matcha cheesecake and a selection of mochi. Our advice? Instead explore the restaurant’s extensive drinks list, which includes a range of European wines, alongside sakes, Japanese whiskeys and a line-up of house cocktails - think Lychee Martinis and a Green Tea Negroni.