Matto Ste-Foy

After completing the Matto restaurants in Old Quebec and Lévis, LemayMichaud has been commissioned to design the new Matto Sainte-Foy. This new location occupies the ground floor of a newly constructed building on the site of the former Matto Myrand, which was lost due to an unforeseen incident.

Situated at the corner of two streets, the restaurant enjoys remarkable visibility thanks to its floor-to-ceiling glass façades. This transparency creates a seamless connection between the restaurant's warm interior and the vibrant urban environment surrounding it.

LemayMichaud worked closely with the owner to ensure the design reflected his Italian heritage and captured the essence of his many travels. The space embodies a love for dining in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The result is a uniquely styled restaurant, distinct from other Matto establishments, while remaining true to the brand's image.

Wood, marble, concrete, woolen fabrics, leather, and ceramic patterns are all elements that contribute to the creation of a lasting, human-scale space. These timeless materials, shaped by the passage of time, give the restaurant the characteristic patina of places steeped in history, evoking the authenticity of Italy. The soft, amber lighting enhances the textures and details of the interior, offering visitors an unforgettable experience, deeply rooted in Italian conviviality and authenticity.

The restaurant is infused with rich burgundy tones, bringing warmth and sophistication to the entire space. A prominent bar rises in the heart of the restaurant, emphasizing the length of the space. The backlit wall highlights the bottles and spirits, creating a cozy ambiance, while subtle lighting enhances the texture of the concrete wall. An oversized wine cellar conceals a service area, while providing a clear view of the open kitchen, a distinctive feature of all Matto restaurants.

From the moment you enter the room, a triangular table immediately catches the eye with its translucent top featuring copper flecks. Tables of various shapes have been arranged to place guests at the heart of the action. At the back of the restaurant, a rotating table allows the space to be reconfigured as needed, offering flexibility without compromising on aesthetics. Ceramic inserts, both on the floor and in the bathrooms, play with contrasts and patterns in surprising ways.

To complete the experience, a market space has been set up at the entrance, inviting customers to purchase products to recreate some of Matto's signature dishes at home.

As the centerpiece of the restaurant, a majestic chandelier crowns the entire space and creates a strong visual impact from the street. The long fixture, designed by LemayMichaud, is composed of over 200 rings and 25 luminous spheres and appears to float above the open space. Like a masterpiece of craftsmanship, it is framed by a ceiling of felt and wood with curved shapes, evoking the coffered ceilings of old buildings.