Latest news with #ChottoMatteRiyadh
FACT
18-03-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Chotto Matte Riyadh Review: The Nikkei concept adds a dose of cool to the capital
Located in KAFD, the Japanese meets Peruvian restaurant is a haven for Gen Z. I've found the coolest bathrooms in Riyadh. Never in my life did I think I would write these words, but here we are. Saudi Vision 2030 has given way to million-riyal megaprojects, Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League, dining no longer segregated by gender – and now, bathrooms that light up like you're in Michael Jackson's Billie Jean music video. I'm at the new Japanese Peruvian restaurant Chotte Matte Riyadh in KAFD, and it has captured the hip, happening energy of the changing country. In Japanese, Chotto Matte translates to wait a moment. Founder Kurt Zdesar is behind the concept, and boasts an impressive track record with high-end restaurants ranging from Hakkasan to Nobu. In 2013, Chotto Matte launched in London's Soho before expanding to Doha, Miami, Toronto and, of course, Riyadh. He explained: 'We keep pushing the boundaries to be innovative'. Chotto Matte Riyadh exudes an edgy and entertaining vibe. When we arrived on a weeknight, a queue was already snaking outside the door. If you've been wondering where to find an example of 70 per cent of Saudi Arabia's population that are under 30 years old, then head here. After we whizzed up the lift, we entered a dimly lit corridor with graffiti, and neon lights instructing you like Kurt Cobain to 'come as you are'. Take your pick from indoor or outdoor seats, which are surrounded by gorgeous greenery. We sat near the open kitchen, and watched the chefs at work. The theatrics offer foodie fun, and range from sushi rolling to fire flames, which is accompanied by a DJ playing laidback tunes. Chotto Matte Riyadh prides itself on offering authentic Nikkei cuisine. The menu showcases premium ingredients, which are fresh, healthy and great for groups. The options include an à la carte, deluxe sharing, signature sharing and vegetarian menu. We opted for the signature tasting menu, which includes dishes that can be found in Chotto Matte restaurants around the world. Starters range from Edamame to Shrimp Truffles. The Yellowtail Nikki Sashimi had a subtle spicy kick. It soaked up the sauces, and came with cherry tomatoes, jalapeño and yuzu truffle soy. The Wagyu Beef Spring Rolls came in four fabulous crispy and rich pieces. The Chuleta De Cordero Ahumada is one of the most popular signature dishes. Marinated with coriander and chilli miso, it was the perfect balance of smoky and spicy, and sink-into-soft. The sushi selection was served in Insta-worthy style with torching at the table, naturally. The Otoro Nigiri hit our sushi spot with its filling fatty tuna and wasabi salsa. Chotto Matte's drinks have been given just as much attention. Classic cocktails are given a Japanese meets Peruvian meets mocktail twist. Drinks range from a Pina Picante with pineapple to a Yuzu Martini with citrus. Mocktails served with inflated bubbles or ice cubes stamped with logos. No visit to Chotto Matte Riyadh is complete without checking out those toilets. These are not your typical bathroom – they're unlike anything you've seen in Riyadh. Adorned with mirrors and changing lighting, it feels more like a nightclub in London or New York. Gen Z has embraced Chotto Matte Riyadh, which is a tasty trailblazer. It's rare to find an eatery in Riyadh that boldly pushes the boundaries with a daring dining experience – and chances are, more restaurants (and toilets) will follow. GO: Visit for more information.
CairoScene
29-01-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
London's Chotto Matte Just Officially Opened in Riyadh
The UK-born and globally acclaimed Japanese-Peruvian restaurant is now ready to serve, Saudi-style. Wake up besties, Nikkei cuisine just dropped in the Kingdom. Having just opened its doors in Riyadh, globally-renowned Japanese-Peruvian restaurant Chotto Matte is now ready to serve its classics, Saudi-style. With a menu brimming with signature Japanese and Peruvian dishes - think Nikkei Sashimi, Wagyu Beef Spring Rolls, Black Cod Aji Miso and more - Chotto Matte Riyadh, spearheaded by Australian chef and entrepreneur Kurt Zdesar, offers a wholesome experience in the heart of Riyadh. The food, however, isn't the only star. Complemented by stunning interiors courtesy of London-based architecture and design hub Superfutures, Chotto Matte Riyadh features an open sushi counter, a robata grill, lava stone details, and vibrant graffiti-inspired artwork all held in the embrace of verdant greenery. 'We are thrilled for guests to experience the vibrant flavours and the exciting atmosphere that Chotto Matte is known for.' Chotto Matte founder Kurt Zdesar tells SceneNowSaudi. With branches in London, Doha, Toronto and San Francisco, the UK-born restaurant is expanding its presence in the Middle East with this inaugural branch in the Kingdom. Image Credit: Nour El-Refai
