Hot Stone
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
"Hot Stone" in London, England, is an award-winning Japanese restaurant known for its unique combination of traditional techniques and luxurious ingredients. It is one of the few restaurants in the United Kingdom – specifically, one of nine – that serve certified Kobe beef, considered one of the best types of meat in the world. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Padam Raj Rai, who brings over 22 years of experience in Japanese cuisine and has previously worked at renowned establishments such as Zuma, Nobu, and Sake No Hana, the restaurant offers a culinary experience deeply rooted in authenticity. Originally started in Islington, "Hot Stone" has also opened a location in Fitzrovia, known for its central location and modern atmosphere.
The heart of the restaurant is the Ishiyaki method, an ancient Japanese cooking technique where guests cook their own food on a hot volcanic stone heated to around 450 degrees Celsius. The "Kobe Sirloin Steak" is a highlight – a tender, marbled piece of meat that, when prepared at the table, gets an intense flavor and perfect texture. This interactive component makes the visit a special experience that goes beyond just eating. In addition to Kobe beef, the restaurant shines with an array of exquisite sushi served with freshly grated wasabi from the mountain regions of Japan. The "Fatty Tuna Truffle Roll" is an example of the creative sophistication offered here – a combination of buttery tuna, truffle, and caviar that delights the palate.
The side dishes and appetizers are also noteworthy. The "Miso Eggplant" impresses with its sweet and savory glaze and delicate texture, while the "Scallop Carpaccio" with plum sauce and edible flowers offers a light yet flavorfully complex option. For seafood lovers, there are dishes like "King Prawns" that can also be grilled on the hot stone and stand out with their juicy freshness. The soy sauces, aged over 100 years in cedar barrels by the Okada family, add a special depth to the dishes and enhance the natural umami flavor. For dessert, the "Black Sesame Cheesecake" offers an unusual but delicious note that is sweet and slightly nutty at the same time.
The restaurant itself is a place of contrasts – minimalist yet warm, with interior design inspired by Japanese aesthetics and playful elements such as artificial cherry blossom trees. The open kitchen area allows guests to watch the chefs at work, strengthening the connection to craftsmanship. The service is often described as friendly and knowledgeable, with staff happy to guide guests through the menu and explain the intricacies of the Ishiyaki method. "Hot Stone" places great emphasis on details, whether in the quality of ingredients or the presentation of dishes, earning it numerous awards and recognition in the London dining scene.
"Hot Stone" is more than just a restaurant – it is a small journey into the world of Japanese culinary art that blends tradition and modernity. It appeals to both sushi enthusiasts and meat lovers, offering an experience that is memorable with its interactive component. The limited number of seats creates an intimate atmosphere, and the popularity of the venue often requires advance booking. For those in London seeking an extraordinary dining experience that celebrates both taste and craftsmanship, "Hot Stone" is a must-visit destination that appeals to the senses at the highest level.
