“Hot Stones” derives its name from the unique method of cooking the restaurant employs. Serving steak and seafood that is cooked on volcanic slabs of stones, this method dates back to the Stone Age. This method of cooking is supposed to seal in the extraordinary flavor of the food making it extra succulent and delicious. Being the first restaurant to adopt and master this concept, “ Hot Stones” has left many of its emulators blazing on its trail of coals. Having had many stomachs growling in approval for 14 years, Hot Stones is still the perennial favourite amongst families and youngsters.

• The Vibe
  One cannot miss the eye-catching and striking paintings on the walls, which are fashioned to replicate prehistoric cave paintings. The attractive wall mural jazzes up the simple décor, giving the place an understated classiness. Unlike many lavish and ostentatious restaurants which may seem a little imposing for a casual meal, Hot Stones is an unassuming place which looks modest, yet nice enough for a family dinner, or a friend's birthday celebration. The interior is small and cozy. The soft hum of instrumental music creates a pleasant atmosphere to unwind to at the end of a long day. Overall, Hot Stones offers a casual, no-fuss atmosphere, with a great appeal for all.

• The Food
  Appetizers
  The delicious fragrance of food is a preview to the real treasures that the restaurant has to offer. An excellent starter is the hot sampler plate ($20). Appealing to the tastes buds of the entire table, it has mini samplings of the other appetizers. The plate consists of fried crab cakes, prawn quesadilla, mushroom vol au vent and Buffalo wings. The mushroom vol au vent is a perennial favorite. Creamy mushrooms ooze out of the light and flaky pastry. The fried crab cakes are a pleasant surprise as well. It is not too greasy, and remains fresh and crisp.

• Mains
  The Ribeye steak ($27.90) and the Seafood Deluxe ($30.90) are hot favorites amongst regulars. The visual of the thick, juicy piece of meat simmering on the hot slab of rock is an enticing invitation. Mouth-watering and succulent, the taste will surpass your expectations with it being tender and sealed with a moist, wholesome flavor. The restaurant only uses prime cuts of Australian beef and one only has to taste the food to see its quality. Seafood fans will adore the Seafood Deluxe which consists of fresh scallops, a thick luscious slice of salmon, and crayfish. All dishes come accompanied by specialty sauces such as the Wasabi Mayonnaise, Mexican Chilli Tartare and Peppercorn. A word of advice for people who dislike Wasabi: Forget all preconceived notions you have about Wasabi, because this sauce will convert you. The natural flavors of the steak are enhanced by the tangy and slightly spicy sauce, which is a perfect complement. The main courses are accompanied by side dishes. Judging from the gusto in which customers attack the crispy golden fries, it is proof enough that the fries as scrumptious as the main course itself!

• Desserts
  Forget the diet and be sure to save some stomach space for these guilty indulgences. Hardcore chocolate fanatics will be delighted by the falling chocolate cake with raspberry sauce ($12.50). The luscious chocolate bits tucked within the moist cake, glide smoothly down the tongue. The rich vanilla gelato enhances the taste of the cake, without masking the flavorful chocolate. Not a chocolate fan? Another treasure is the apple crumble with warm caramel sauce ($12.50). It is rich, without being cloyingly sweet. The caramel sauce adds a nice touch to the dessert. The crumble is generously crammed with huge, luscious chunks of chopped apple, topped with warm, buttery bits of crumble. The ultimate comfort food.

• The Service
  The staff here is friendly and meticulous, making sure all needs are being well taken care of.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Hot Stones
With the wide range of mouthwatering delights that the menu boasts, one will not be disappointed by the extensive selection. One will be able to find a treasure to please even the most demanding of taste buds. Although the restaurant specializes in Western cuisine, the Japanese selection is equally promising. The Beef Sukiyaki, is as delectable and flavorful as the Ribeye Steak. Do not be fooled by the restaurant's modest exterior, because the cooking impresses with its bold seasonings and sauces, as well as refined techniques. The hearty menu, coupled together with the unique cooking method promises to make dining an exciting experience.