Submitted by Drew Downing
MATIA, founded in 2016 by Avery Adams and Drew Downing, has always been a passionate pursuit of showcasing the abundance of this archipelago. With humble beginnings, offering pop-ups in bars and coffee shops, MATIA has always been a dynamic service to the community. Expanding into catering and outdoor events all over the Salish Sea, and dynamic pivots into consulting and food writing during the early days of 2020, we are excited to finally have a brick-and-mortar to call home.
After weathering an abrupt closure in January, MATIA Kitchen reopened at the hallowed Old Firehall — the former home of Roses Cafe and MONTi (382 Prune Alley). Under the same leadership team of its founders, MATIA returns with the same nationally recognized seasonal farm-to-table dining experience, chef’s counter tasting menus, unique and rarified libations and lively, rambunctious bistro fare.
“Our hope is to continue the work we’ve done the last two years,” says chef Adams. “This restaurant has always been a love letter to the San Juan Islands and my time growing up in the area and it will continue to feature and celebrate hyper-seasonal products from our dear friends and supporters.”
Look forward to a shifting menu at MATIA that reflects the changes in the season throughout the year, recalling old crowd favorites and new exciting dishes allowed by the new space and newly enlivened creative energy.
“It’s a true honor to be here. We could not be more excited for the joy and reverence of this space, and to continue the rich history of this restaurant with our MATIA spirit,” general manager Downing adds. “Having the opportunity to both secure a permanent home for MATIA, as well as continue the growth of MONTi, is like a dream come true. I can’t wait to see these concepts sing in symbiosis with one another.”
MATIA is open now, and we are looking forward to MONTi’s grand reopening in the spring.
Join us Thursday through Sunday, 5-9. Reservations are available at our new website www.matiakitchen.com. Keep your eyes peeled for live music events throughout the season.
