Dim sum 3 stars. Overall 3.5 stars.
Hot Spot Chinese Cuisine is a new dim sum/Cantonese dining/hot pot restaurant in the Catherdraltown/Cachet neighbourhoods in Markham. It took over the location previously occupied by Noodle Stars. The interior decoration has been thoroughly renovated; it looked nothing like how the store was before. The color theme is red and dark brown, creating a dimmer and classy ambiance. There are cubicles, similar to the ones in Congee Wong, plus some big round tables. Green plants add a lively tranquility.
We had a lunch during their test opening. Even during these early days, there were sufficient dim sum selections available. I expected fresh ingredients from a restaurant that had just been opened, and Hot Spot passed with flying colours. The dim sum tasted normal/well seasoned. The stir fried noodle tasted bold and was well portioned. Per menu, there is early bird dim sum special before 11am at $3.88 for S/M/L sizes.
The servers were friendly and polite. The restaurant was still hiring, so services could be a bit slow. I expect it be improved once it is adequately staffed.
Dinners and hot pots were not yet offered in the week that we visited. We expect to return for dinner soon.