An heirloom tomato picked at the height of its season, whether eaten by itself or sprinkled with sea salt and extra-virgin olive oil, can produce an indelible memory. Chef Chris and Idie Hastings specialize in this exact type of memory cuisine at their Hot and Hot Fish Club, located in a historic building in Birmingham’s Southside. Their network of local purveyors throughout Alabama and the southeast provide them with ingredients that, when simply cooked and presented, will not soon be forgotten. First-time patrons and seasoned guests alike choose seats at the sweeping limestone California-style chef’s counter. Its commanding view of the open kitchen and the energy that surrounds it makes those seats the hottest in Birmingham. The main dining room maintains that sense of excitement and has preferred seating for intimate dining and tables for parties as large as 10 people.