Chotto Matte Brings its Iconic Nikkei Cuisine to Riyadh’s KAFD January 2025 The globally acclaimed Nikkei restaurant expands its Middle East presence with a bold Japanese-Peruvian fusion offering in Riyadh’s vibrant scene

Ain Alalam – Rashad Iskandrni

Chotto Matte, the global restaurant brand by renowned chef and restaurateur Kurt Zdesar, known for Nikkei cuisine which combines the rich heritage of Japan and the vibrant spirit of Peru, is set to open its doors in Riyadh in January 2025. Located in the vibrant King Abdullah Financial District, this new hotspot will blend the best of Japanese and Peruvian flavors in a stunning space designed to captivate the senses.

Founder and Owner of Chotto Matte, Kurt Zdesar, commented on the opening: “We are happy to bring the Chotto Matte experience to Riyadh, where the blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors has been embraced globally. KAFD’s dynamic environment perfectly reflects our vision for innovation, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to enjoy our unique culinary offerings in this exciting new location. Riyadh’s rapidly evolving and vibrant culinary scene is a perfect match for our concept, and we are excited to be part of the city’s growing food culture.”

All Chotto Matte sites are set in impressive and memorable spaces, and the stylish, contemporary art-led design of the Riyadh location will add an extra layer of sophistication to the dining experience, mirroring the city’s own modern and ambitious environment.

Andy Martin, the respected founder of Superfutures: Architecture & Design, has expertly crafted the interior design of the new Chotto Matte restaurant, continuing his successful partnership with the brand since 2013. The space features signature design elements, including an open sushi counter, robata grill, lava stone accents, and vibrant graffiti-inspired artwork, all complemented by lush greenery—key characteristics that define the Chotto Matte experience.

Founded in 2013 by Kurt Zdesar, Chotto Matte, known for its unique menu of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, has grown from its success in London to a global brand with locations in Miami, Doha, San Francisco, Toronto, and the Middle East. The brand continues to expand, with exciting new openings planned in Tbilisi and Dubai.

Each Chotto Matte location is a culinary landmark, known for its innovative and sustainably sourced Nikkei dishes, expertly crafted cocktails, and bold, contemporary design. The new Riyadh location in KAFD, a dynamic and cutting-edge business & entertainment district in the heart of the city, promises a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and creative mocktails.

The brand has been globally recognised and received prestigious awards, including The London Lifestyle Awards in November 2024 and Retail & Leisure International Hospitality Operator of the Year in June 2023, proving its dedication to providing a top-notch dining experience that delights guests around the world.

Reservations will be available through SevenRooms, and the restaurant’s website will be launching soon.

About Chotto Matte:

Chotto Matte is a global restaurant brand set up in London in 2013 by renowned chef and restaurateur Kurt Zdesar, inspired by the rich heritage of Japan and the vibrant spirit of Peru.

Chotto Matte has become a culinary destination recognised for its inventive and sustainably sourced Nikkei dishes, masterfully crafted cocktails and pioneering design. Chotto Matte restaurants are all set in iconic architectural spaces reflective of the incredible locations and culture of the exciting city locations around the world, including London’s Soho, Miami, San Francisco, Toronto and Doha. The global appeal of this unique concept continues to grow with further confirmed sites in Tbilisi and Dubai.

Nikkei maps a culinary evolution of Japanese and Peruvian traditions over a century, a tapestry of flavours, blending tradition with innovation. Chotto Matte’s menu stays true to the Nikkei staples – Ceviche, Tiradito, Anticucho BBQ, Sushi, Sashimi and Tempura – created with the finest, environmentally considerate ingredients.