Chotto Matte, TO

161 Bay St., Toronto, ON

A little bit of this, a little bit of that.

It’s what you’re in for at Chotto Matte, a Japanese Peruvian experience like one you probably haven’t experienced before.

Awaken not only your palate but also let creative culinary artists tap into the most unthinkable tastespectations — cuz hey, who doesn’t love a good plate of Peruvian chicken with a side dragon roll? It’s the best of both worlds. Hannah Montana said it first… not me ;)

Chotto Matte isn’t your classic Asian fusion. It’s a modern, sophisticated and eclectic artsty jungle vibe with a menu like no other.

Fusing together Peruvian staples like rocoto cauliflower wings and asado de tira (Peruvian short ribs) with delicate Japanese dishes like Nikkei Gyoza and barbecued sweet Asian shishito peppers, Chotto Matte makes every bite a memorable, flavour rich and exciting one.

So, what’s comparable in the city? Nothing! Literally. The only possible contender which is projected to open its doors sometime this year is Nobu. Nobu uses Peruvian ingredients to spice up (quite literally) their Japanese classics. I wonder what Robert De Niro, basically the face of Nobu and bff of owner, chef and culinary genius, Nobu Matsuhisa, would think of Chotto Matte?

I haven’t tried Nobu — YET. But if you have, check out Chotto too and let me know if you think their menus are comparable (or compete-able for that matter).

We sat along what I’ll call the show kitchen bar top. Basically a forward facing view of the more aesthetic front of house kitchen where dishes were prepared and plated. It was a bit loud, hot, and, of course, aromatic in this area but despite it being a bit difficult to hear at conversation-level speaking, it was a cool experience. Think something close to talenyaki without the show.

We went late night and got drinks and a few shareables. Drinks were great; strong and unique both in name and variation of flavour.

Here’s what we munched on:

He’s so smoking ($20)

8.5/10

Cazadores Blanco tequila, peach, ginger, lapsang, yuzu, shiso and smoke

This drink is nothing short of its name. Served over ice and “smoking,” this peachy ginger-infused drink is strong. This one is better for gradual sipping with a meal or food, but that’s just me.

Jasmine Fantasy ($18)

8/10

Tanqueray Gin, St Germain elderflower, Aperol, tonic water and pink grapefruit

Now this drink is your lighter, fruitier, soda-d down cocktail. The elderflower and grapefruit were great, but the subtle Aperol hint was, in my opinion, too subtle making the drink taste watered down for its price point.

Arroz Chaufa ($11.50)

6/10

Peruvian vegetable, egg fried rice, spicy sesame soy

This is just your basic fried rice — nothing more and nothing less. Nothing special to it from a flavour or even plating standpoint. It needed more seasoning and was served at an awkward temperature (room temp-ish). Standard but still decent. I'm curious about how the shrimp fried rice would taste.

Pollo den mizo ($21)

9/10

Miso marinated chicken, carrot, daikon, yellow chili yoghurt

This was plated nicely. I loved the presentation and kick of spice the drizzled yoghurt added to the juicy, deliciously marinated chicken thighs. I would definitely get this again and recommend for you to try it out too. Just be cautious about the spice level if that’s not your thing.

Dragon roll ($21)

10/10

Shrimp tempura, salmon, avocado, unagi salsa

Now this is what we came for. The sushi came last but exceeded our expectations. This roll was so soft and the shrimp tempura was paired so nicely with the unagi salsa that replaced your traditional soya sauce. The only downfall was that it came so long after our other dishes came (we waited quite a while even after we had finished with the fried rice and chicken).

Overall, service was on the slow side. Staff was friendly when present, but hard to flag down. Pricing was quite high for what we got + the service. This place has a fun atmosphere for drinks and small bites with friends late night. If you go, you MUST take a look at the neon virtual reality-looking washrooms. What an experience that was … let’s just say, ladies, take a right after the neon hallway — don’t make the same mistake I did!

Let me know your verdict when you try this hidden gem for yourself!

Until my next dose of YUM,

xx Sab