This is #DishingIt – where we give you the inside scoop on what’s new and downright finger lickin’ good on the culinary scene. From new flavours to your next favourite dinner spot, we’re always hungry for a good find. Our team recently visited Chotto Matte in Toronto, where Japanese techniques meet Peruvian flavours, and dinner comes with a lively side of nightlife. With a refreshed Saturday brunch, Happy Hour that extends into the weekend, and Sunday Steak & Sushi, there are plenty of reasons to settle in.
The Vibe
Photo provided by Chotto Matte
Chotto Matte brings together bold interiors, modern energy, and artistic interpretations of underground Tokyo for a one-of-a-kind dining experience in downtown Toronto. It’s an excuse to make a night of that dinner you’ve been dreaming of with your favourite people.
The vibe is all about bringing the party to you. From the creativity on the walls to the music playing overhead, there’s a feeling of “let’s have fun.” Drawing inspiration from the Peruvian Amazon and Tokyo’s contemporary urban culture, the space features lava stone and Shou Sugi Ban wood. The design is intentional and electrifying—a fitting backdrop for the artistry coming out of the kitchen and curated beats from DJs.
The Concept
At the heart of Chotto Matte is Nikkei cuisine, bringing Japanese techniques and Peruvian flavours together. With Executive Chef Jordan Sclare at the helm, the menu takes an artistic approach to high-quality ingredients. Simply put, vibrant flavours are at the forefront of every dish.
The Food & Drinks
Photo provided by Chotto Matte
The menu invites you to dive into a little bit of everything. From the signature nine-course sharing menu to à la carte favourites, there’s plenty to explore.
The sea bass ceviche with leche de tigre is a fresh way to begin, while the spicy tuna crispy sushi brings bold flavours to the table. The Nikkei gyoza was one of our favourites: pork and prawn dumplings served with yuzu sweet potato purée and red pepper ponzu. Finish with warm cinnamon churros for a sweet ending.
Cocktails are part of the experience, too. From the tart Pisco Sour to the smooth finish of the Wabi-Sabi, the drinks explore unexpected flavour combinations that complement what’s on your plate.
Happy Hour at Chotto Matte
Photo via Chotto Matte
Join Chotto Matte for happy hour, featuring signature cocktails, beer and highballs alongside a selection of Japanese-Peruvian bites. Sip on a Pisco Sour or Espresso Martini, and snack on favourites like spicy edamame, vegan crispy rice and Nikkei gyoza, with drinks starting at $5 and bites from $5. The perfect excuse to settle in for a little Nikkei indulgence. Happy Hour is available on Saturdays, with updated hours of Monday–Saturday, 3–5 PM.
Brunch at Chotto
Photo provided by Chotto Matte
Toronto’s dining scene has embraced both Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, yet the two rarely meet on the same plate. At Chotto Matte, that collision is the point. Imagine warm cinnamon-honey toast hitting the table, its cool custard cream melting in a brûléed banana flambéed table side. That’s the new Shibuya Toast at Chotto Matte Toronto, the centrepiece of the restaurant’s newly refreshed Saturday brunch: “BRUNCH AT CHOTTO”.
Inspired by the Japanese streetside favourite, it layers thick toast with cinnamon-honey butter, cool custard cream and caramelized banana, finished tableside with a flash of flame. Guests can then make it their own with seasonal berries, strawberry-yuzu coulis, warm hazelnut chocolate or Biscoff. And that’s only the beginning. Chotto’s new brunch menu leans further into Chotto Matte’s signature Japanese-Peruvian flavours, featuring Millionaire Loaded Tots piled high with truffle Parmesan, glazed bacon and guacamole; Nikkei Avocado Toast brightened with shichimi, feta and pickled onion; and Buttermilk Pancakes topped with maple-glazed plantain and blueberries.
Built around big flavours, table side “wow” moments and more reason to linger with friends and family. And for those who aren’t quite ready for the afternoon to begin, $39 bottomless mimosas keep the brunch flowing. Brunch at Chotto is available every Saturday starting September 26, 11 AM-4 PM at Chotto Matte Toronto.
Sunday Steak & Sushi
Photo provided by Chotto Matte
Chotto Matte’s Sunday Steak & Sushi experience features an exclusive eight-dish set menu for $75 per person, pairing signature Nikkei sushi and premium Australian Wagyu picanha with bold Japanese-Peruvian flavours. Available Sundays from 4 p.m., the experience also includes your choice of a five-ounce red or white wine.
