Chef Jason Doo is set to introduce a vibrant new dining experience, Gato Exotico, at the CambridgeSide shopping mall located at 100 Cambridgeside Place. This announcement comes from a recent press release detailing the plans for this innovative restaurant, expected to open in late 2025.
Gato Exotico will showcase a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity, aiming to capture the essence of 1990s mall dining. Chef Doo, who gained recognition for his acclaimed eatery Wusong Road in Harvard Square, intends to create a lively tropical atmosphere that invites diners to indulge in a celebration of regional Mexican cuisine.
The menu will feature dishes such as Yucatán-style cochinita pibil, which is slow-roasted in banana leaves, and mole negro from Oaxaca. Diners can also expect fresh ceviches inspired by the coastal flavors of Tulum. The restaurant will offer various shareable plates and playful street food options, catering to a diverse range of tastes.
Cocktails will play a pivotal role in the dining experience at Gato Exotico. Guests can look forward to mezcal- and tequila-based drinks, creatively infused with tropical fruits and juices. These beverages will be served in custom-designed glassware, adding to the vibrant and fun atmosphere Chef Doo envisions for the space.
Reflecting on his connection to the area, Chef Doo expressed his enthusiasm in a recent statement: “I grew up going to CambridgeSide and have strong memories of spending time there as a teenager after school at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School. That is the spirit we wanted to capture with Gato Exotico. We are so excited to be part of CambridgeSide – a reimagining of a contemporary mall in the heart of the city, bringing that sense of community forward with modern food, cocktails, and an immersive atmosphere that nods to the playful thematic dining experiences of the 1990s.”
The announcement of Gato Exotico comes amid speculation earlier this year regarding a potential second location of Wusong Road in the Seaport, although no concrete plans have been confirmed. As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, Chef Doo’s upcoming venture promises to be a noteworthy addition to East Cambridge’s dining scene, inviting both locals and visitors to experience a new twist on familiar flavors in a dynamic setting.
