Where We Are Going Today: ‘Chotto Matte' Restaurant in Riyadh
Chotto Matte, a newly opened restaurant in Riyadh, has quickly become a hotspot for those seeking a unique dining experience. This innovative venue merges the vibrant flavors of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, known as Nikkei, and is the brainchild of owner Kurt Zdesar. His vision for Chotto Matte aligns seamlessly with Saudi Arabia's ambitious growth plans as outlined in Vision 2030.
Zdesar was drawn to Riyadh not just for its economic potential but also for its rich cultural tapestry that inspires the restaurant's offerings.
'Saudi Arabia's ambitious vision for growth and diversification — alongside its goal of becoming the largest and most influential economic and financial hub in the GCC and the broader Middle East — makes Riyadh an ideal stage for Chotto Matte. I was drawn by the Kingdom's forward-thinking approach, reflected in its Vision 2030, which champions innovation, tourism, and vibrant cultural experiences. I want to be part of that momentum, contributing to an evolving hospitality scene poised for global recognition.'
This dynamic cultural landscape perfectly aligns with the Nikkei DNA, he added. 'Saudi Arabia embodies both deeply rooted tradition and cutting-edge modernity — just the kind of energy that inspires Chotto Matte. I ensure our global menu remains true to its bold Japanese-Peruvian essence, whilst adding exclusive twists that highlight local ingredients and flavours. By collaborating with regional suppliers, we celebrate the Kingdom's produce in a way that respects local tastes and traditions. Ultimately, it's about honouring Saudi heritage while pushing the boundaries of what a dining experience can offer.'
The restaurant's atmosphere is another focal point of Zdesar's vision. Known for its high-energy ambience, Chotto Matte retains its signature style while adapting to local preferences.
'In Riyadh, I've preserved that signature style but adapted certain elements to align with local preferences and customs, such as offering private dining areas for family gatherings or more intimate experiences,' Zdesar said.
The design draws inspiration from the King Abdullah Financial District, where the architecture resembles jewels dropped from heaven. 'Working with our design partner Superfutures, we incorporated an angular, mirrored ceiling installation that pays homage to this concept — quite literally reflecting (no pun intended) the striking geometry of the surrounding cityscape,' Zdesar added.
The reception to Chotto Matte's unique culinary blend has been overwhelmingly positive. Zdesar notes that the market's appetite for fresh and dynamic dining options aligns perfectly with the restaurant's offerings.
'I've already seen a tremendous response to our Japanese-Peruvian cuisine in Riyadh. Diners here appreciate creativity, quality, and memorable experiences — all core elements of our Nikkei concept.'
As Ramadan approaches, Chotto Matte plans to unveil an exclusive Iftar menu that combines traditional Saudi dishes with the restaurant's signature techniques and flavors.
'I am delighted to unveil an exclusive Iftar menu that melds traditional Saudi dishes with our signature Peruvian and Japanese techniques and flavours. It's an innovative way to honour the customs of Ramadan whilst introducing the bold flair that defines Chotto Matte.'
Additionally, Chotto Matte boasts the largest terrace in KAFD, offering a vibrant setting for al fresco dining. 'This expansive outdoor space provides a vibrant setting to savour our menu while enjoying the city's skyline and cultural buzz,' Zdesar said.
Whether breaking fast with special Iftar offerings or simply enjoying a novel dining experience, Chotto Matte promises a culinary journey that resonates with local customs while pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Saudi Gazette
7 hours ago
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka celebrates 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Japan
Saudi Gazette report OSAKA — The Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan. The two countries established diplomatic relations on June 7, 1955, laying the foundation for a long-term partnership that has evolved over the decades into a multifaceted alliance enhancing cultural exchange and diplomatic cooperation. This partnership has also had a significant economic impact on both nations. In February 2025, Saudi Arabia and Japan signed a memorandum to establish a Strategic Partnership Council. In this context, Saudi Ambassador to Japan and Commissioner General of the Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka Dr. Ghazi Faisal Binzagr said that Saudi-Japanese relations have grown and strengthened over the past 70 years. 'The relations go beyond a mere economic partnership to reflect the depth and diversity of our ties. Today, we build on the strength of the past and harness the momentum of the present to jointly shape a new vision for the future,' the ambassador said. 'With Expo 2025 taking place in Osaka and Saudi Arabia hosting Expo 2030 in Riyadh, our two countries stand at the forefront of global exchange, showcasing the latest innovations and sustainable technologies, and contributing to shaping an inclusive future for all.' The Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka hosts hundreds of business events aimed at strengthening trade and investment relations between the Kingdom and Japan. These include presentations led by the Ministries of Investment and Commerce, as well as events highlighting the trade and investment opportunities offered by Saudi Vision 2030. Trade volume between the two countries has grown significantly over the past decade, rising from $33.4 billion to over $41 billion currently. The Saudi Pavilion aims to increase the number of Japanese visitors to the Kingdom, targeting 30,000 annual visitors before Expo 2030 Riyadh. This is part of the comprehensive Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 strategy, which includes more than 80 projects across nine sectors: culture, food and agricultural security, media and entertainment, healthcare, advanced infrastructure, finance and investment, competitive industries, energy, small and medium enterprises, sports, and education. Cultural exchange between the two countries has flourished, highlighted by Saudi Arabia's role in bringing Japanese culture to the Middle East through local manga studios, whose works will be showcased at the Saudi Pavilion in August. The Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka offers more than 700 diverse and engaging events, including daily shows and live performing arts. Since the Expo opened in April 2025, it has attracted over 500,000 visitors. On September 23, it is expected to host a variety of events and presentations in celebration of Saudi National Day.
Arab News
12 hours ago
- Arab News
Saudi ports post 13% rise in container volume in May: Mawani
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's seaports handled 720,684 twenty-foot equivalent units in May, a 13 percent year-on-year jump, driven by growth in imports, exports, and transshipment activity, official figures showed. According to data from the Saudi Ports Authority, also known as Mawani, imported containers rose 15.84 percent from a year earlier to 292,223 TEUs, while exported volumes increased 9.38 percent to 279,318 TEUs. Transport, or transshipment, containers also climbed 12.89 percent to 149,143 TEUs, reflecting the Kingdom's growing role as a regional trade hub. The uptick in activity highlights the ongoing expansion of port infrastructure and logistics services across the country. It also supports the goals of Saudi Arabia's National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a global logistics center under Vision 2030. In a release, Mawani stated: 'The total tonnage handled — general cargo, solid bulk cargo, and liquid bulk cargo — increased by 1.40 percent to reach 21,337,699 tonnes compared to 21,042,684 tons during the same period last year.' It added: 'The total general cargo amounted to 935,932 tonnes, solid bulk cargo 5,059,899 tonnes, and liquid bulk cargo 15,341,868 tonnes.' The ports received 1.63 million heads of livestock, up 61.22 percent compared to 1.01 million during the same period last year. Maritime traffic also picked up, with vessel calls rising 9.39 percent to 1,083 ships, while the number of passengers grew 68.15 percent to reach 95,231. The number of vehicles handled increased by 13.09 percent year on year to 84,352 units. The positive momentum follows a strong performance in April, when Saudi ports handled 625,430 standard containers, up 13.4 percent from a year earlier. In 2024, Mawani announced several major initiatives, including agreements and groundbreaking projects to establish eight new logistics parks and hubs at Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, with a combined private sector investment of approximately SR2.9 billion ($773 million). These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance the competitiveness of Saudi ports and reinforce the Kingdom's position as a global trade and logistics hub. The initiatives form part of a larger SR10 billion investment plan to develop 18 logistics parks across Saudi terminals, all overseen by Mawani.
Arab News
12 hours ago
- Arab News
Next-Gen HNWI prefer Middle East as favorite investment destination: Capgemini
RIYADH: Next-generation high-net-worth individuals consider the Middle East as their preferred investment destination, thanks to geopolitical security and economic stability, according to an analysis. In its latest report, consulting firm Capgemini revealed that Saudi Arabia in particular is aggressively courting international investors and ultra-wealthy individuals, thanks to the Vision 2030 economic diversification program. The findings by the Paris-based company align with the views shared by Henley & Partners in April, which said that Riyadh and Jeddah are among the fastest-growing cities in the world for millionaires. According to Henley & Partners, more than 20,000 people with liquid investable wealth of $1 million or more are now based in the Saudi capital, while Jeddah is home to 10,400 millionaires. According to Capgemini, the UAE is also capitalizing on this trend and is attracting international HNWI investors. 'Investors are targeting high-growth emerging economies for specific thematic investment options, tax regulation, economic and political stability, better wealth management services, and enhanced market connectivity. As a result of this search for geopolitical security and economic diversification, Asia and the Middle East have become appealing destinations,' said the report. It added: 'Singapore, Hong Kong, the UAE, and recently Saudi Arabia have established themselves as prime alternatives, utilizing advantageous tax policies, strong financial ecosystems, and political stability to draw global wealth.' The analysis added that enhanced market connectivity and improved wealth management options are among the other crucial factors that make the Middle East a desirable investment destination among next-gen HNWIs. Saudi focus The report said the Kingdom 'has introduced new residency programs aimed at HNWIs, positioning itself as a regional wealth hub.' It added: 'As global wealth patterns shift, Saudi Arabia is actively enhancing its legal and financial frameworks to compete with traditional wealth hubs.' In 2019, Saudi Arabia introduced the premium residency visa option, which allows eligible foreigners to reside in the Kingdom and enjoy benefits such as exemption from expat and dependents' fees, visa-free international travel, and the right to own real estate and operate a business without requiring a sponsor. In January 2024, the Kingdom added five new products to its premium residency program. Under the new addition, the most notable one was the ability to own residential real estate assets worth a minimum of SR4 million ($1.07 million) within the Kingdom. The rise in the number of HNWIs in Saudi Arabia coincides with the extensive Vision 2030 economic reform program launched in 2016. Efforts to diversify the Kingdom's economy have also included a push to attract international companies to establish their regional headquarters in Riyadh, and as of March, over 600 global firms have opened their regional base in Saudi Arabia. Affirming the growth of Saudi Arabia, Knight Frank, in April, said that HNWIs from nine Muslim-majority countries are preparing to commit $2 billion toward property purchases in Makkah and Madinah. The trend comes as Saudi Arabia overhauls its property sector to position itself as a global tourism and business hub by the end of this decade. Growth of Middle East region The report also said the Middle East and Africa registered modest growth in HNWI wealth in 2024, gaining 0.9 percent and 4.7 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year. In 2024, the HNWI population in the Middle East witnessed a decline of 2.1 percent, while it grew by 3.4 percent in Africa. 'In the Middle East, OPEC's extension of oil production cuts and comparatively low oil prices, well below their peak in 2022, contributed to weak growth,' said Capgemini. Global outlook According to the report, the global HNWI population increased by 2.6 percent year on year in 2024. Capgemini said the increase was driven by the growth in the population of ultra-HNWIs — those who hold at least $30 million in assets — which grew by 6.2 percent, as strong stock markets and artificial intelligence optimism boosted portfolio returns. North America saw the biggest gains, with the HNWI population rising by 7.3 percent. Europe's HNWI population declined 2.1 percent due to economic stagnation in major countries like the UK and France, while Latin America also witnessed a drop of 8.5 percent, due to currency depreciation and fiscal instability. Asia-Pacific's HNWI population increased 2.7 percent year on year in 2024. Within the largest individual markets, the US topped the list, adding 562,000 millionaires as the country's HNWI population grew by 7.6 percent to 7.9 million. India and Japan were standouts in the Asia-Pacific region, with both countries registering 5.6 percent growth, adding 20,000 and 210,000 millionaires, respectively, last year. The HNWI population in China declined by 1 percent.
