A new dining experience is set to emerge in East Cambridge as Chef Jason Doo prepares to launch Gato Exotico at the CambridgeSide shopping mall located at 100 Cambridgeside Place. According to a recent press release, this innovative restaurant aims to blend contemporary dining with a nostalgic twist, drawing from the vibrant energy of the 1990s mall culture.
Chef Doo and his award-winning team previously gained recognition for their work at Wusong Road, a tiki-inspired venue in Harvard Square that opened in 2021. The restaurant quickly garnered acclaim for its imaginative fusion dishes and immersive atmosphere. Gato Exotico promises to carry forward this legacy while offering a fresh take on regional Mexican cuisine.
Exciting Menu and Atmosphere
The menu at Gato Exotico will feature a diverse array of regional Mexican dishes. Guests can anticipate specialties such as Yucatán-style cochinita pibil, which is slow-roasted in banana leaves, and mole negro from Oaxaca. Additionally, the menu will highlight “bright ceviches” inspired by the coastal flavors of Tulum. Shareable plates and playful street food options will also be part of the dining experience, catering to those looking for a communal atmosphere.
Cocktails will play a central role at Gato Exotico, echoing the successful beverage program at Wusong Road. Patrons can expect a variety of mezcal- and tequila-based cocktails, infused with tropical fruits and juices. Each drink will be served in custom artist-designed glassware, adding an element of fun to the experience.
In a statement, Chef Doo reflected on his personal connection to the area, saying, “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.” He expressed enthusiasm about becoming part of the contemporary mall’s reimagining, aiming to foster a sense of community with modern food, cocktails, and an immersive atmosphere reminiscent of the theme dining experiences from the past.
Opening Timeline and Future Plans
Gato Exotico is slated to open in late 2025, marking a significant addition to the East Cambridge dining scene. Earlier in the year, speculation arose regarding a potential second location for Wusong Road in the Seaport area, but no plans have been confirmed as of now.
As Chef Doo prepares to unveil his latest culinary venture, local residents and food enthusiasts alike are eager to see how Gato Exotico will blend nostalgia with contemporary dining, contributing to the evolving landscape of the Cambridge food scene.
