Who is Matty Matheson?
Matty Matheson is a larger-than-life Canadian chef, restaurateur, actor, musician, author, and internet sensation. Born in New Brunswick, he has become one of Canada’s most recognizable culinary personalities, with a career that’s as bold and multifaceted. Over the years, he’s launched 13 establishments—and his latest venture, Bar Clams, might just be his most personal project yet.
Located at 802 Dundas Street West in Toronto, Bar Clams is a heartfelt homage to Matheson’s East Coast roots. Inspired by his childhood and the diner his grandfather once owned, the restaurant is a modern take on the neighborhood seafood diner—serving comforting classics elevated by seasonal ingredients.
The space sits on a corner lot and features a clean, retro aesthetic, characterized by a white-painted exterior, mirrored ceilings, and a palette of crisp blues and whites. Two U-shaped stainless steel counters—each seating up to 16 guests—create an intimate, communal dining experience. Blue denim leather bar stools (no backrests!) line the counters, and along the perimeter are counters and hightops to accommodate walk-ins and overflow. There’s no coat check, but purse hooks under the counters offer a practical touch (long coats not advised!).
Touches of nostalgia fill the space, from vintage photos of Matheson’s grandparents on the walls to the classic oldies playing in the background. The partially open kitchen buzzes with energy, and as the night progresses, so does the lively atmosphere.
The food? As East Coast as it gets. While the menu is seasonal, you can count on some staples: oysters, seafood platters (raw, steamed, or fried), a killer fish sandwich, and fish and chips—all made to order, all incredibly fresh. The molasses bread comes with silky whipped butter, and the chowder is a standout—rich, buttery, and brimming with clams, mussels, fish, and potatoes, with no flour-thickened shortcuts. A recent special featured white asparagus served both raw and cooked, with a delicately poached egg for dipping. The Ontario trout with baby shrimp was buttery and decadent.
This isn’t a place for a light meal. It’s indulgent, comforting, and delicious. Under the direction of Director Coulson Armstrong and Chef de Cuisine Shu Zhang, every dish is crafted with care. Don’t skip the house-made tartar and cocktail sauces—they’re exceptional.
The wine and champagne list is extensive, though wine-by-the-glass options are limited. I enjoyed a Spanish white that paired beautifully with my meal. On Thursdays, cocktails like dirty martinis and cosmos are just $7 (normally $17). And yes, desserts are worth saving room for: the lemon meringue pie hits the sweet-sour-crunchy trifecta, while the sundae and personal pan cookie are pure comforts.
Bar Clams has plenty of blue-collar charm, but don’t expect blue-collar prices. Still, for a taste of the East Coast with Toronto flair, it’s a memorable experience. Nestled in Trinity Bellwoods, it’s open nightly for dinner (closed on Mondays), with weekend lunch service on Saturdays and Sundays.
Happy dining,
Shanea
06/19/2025
