#Japan #Grand Mercure #Shima #Ise-Shima #Matoya

The Matoya Table: Celebrate Ise-Shima's Culinary Heritage

Set in the beautiful Ise-Shima National Park, the Grand Mercure Ise-Shima Resort & Spa will host a unique event titled The Matoya Table ～2026 SUMMER～ from August 8 to 16, 2026. This special occasion is dedicated to showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the Ise-Shima region, thanks to the efforts of local fishermen and ama (diving women).

During this event, guests can enjoy thrilling performances of tuna cutting, known as kaitai-sho, where chefs skillfully carve fresh tuna caught from the nearby waters. This experience is accompanied by a delightful buffet dinner featuring grilled seafood inspired by the traditional seaside huts where ama would gather to cook their catch, deepening connections within their community.

The Grand Mercure is committed not only to offering amazing culinary experiences but also to sustainability. The hotel has received the international Green Globe certification, underscoring its dedication to eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism.

Guests can relish the flavors of tuna, which will be served as sushi post-demonstration, showcasing the freshness and quality of seafood available in the region. Moreover, other local delicacies, like sazae (turban shell) and various grilled fish, will also be part of the buffet, embodying the essence of Ise-Shima's seafood culture.

For those looking to deepen their culinary journey, the Bettei Matoya restaurant will launch a special pairing menu starting June 18, 2026. This menu pairs exquisite dishes made with local ingredients like Ise lobster and the region's famed Matoya oysters, alongside locally crafted sake, including the unique Matoya Meguri—sake made with rice grown in fields nourished by oyster shells.

Event Details:

• - Dates: August 8 - 16, 2026
• - Location: Buffet Restaurant “Le Sensoriel” at Grand Mercure Ise-Shima Resort & Spa
• - Time: 17:15 & 20:15 (Open for buffet at 17:00, 18:30, and 20:00)
• - Cost: Included in the all-inclusive plan (note: not applicable to room-only or bed and breakfast plans)
• - Link for more info: The Matoya Table Event

The tuna cutting show allows attendees to witness how large tuna fish are cleanly cut, presenting both the size and unique features of each section. Post-show, guests can indulge in the flavors of sushi made from the freshly cut fish, providing an unparalleled gastronomic experience with direct flavors off the coasts of Ise-Shima.

Grilled seafood will be prepared in style, inspired by the traditions of ama, evoking the warm atmosphere of their seaside gatherings. Here, guests can savor seasonal seafood grilled to perfection, emphasizing the natural flavors of the ingredients, complemented by the enticing scent of charcoal grilling.

Throughout the duration of the event, guests can expect special table-side magic performances, enhancing the dining experience. Local magicians will enthrall guests with card tricks and coin manipulation, making dining an unforgettable affair.

Enhancing the Experience:

In additional offerings, the Bettei Matoya will serve a special course featuring Ise lobster and other seasonal specialities paired with local sake. The sake produced from Matoya oysters embodies the responsible consumption ethos, maintaining balance with nature while maximizing flavor. These thoughtfully curated pairings aim to elevate the dining experience by showcasing the harmonious relationship between regional cuisine and local beverages.

Guests can conclude their culinary adventure at the Grand Mercure Ise-Shima Resort & Spa, which provides a stunning setting enveloped in nature's beauty, promising a unique experience that combines luxury, sustainability, and local charm. Don't miss the chance to savor Ise-Shima's culinary landscape in an exclusive, festive atmosphere where each detail celebrates the region's rich culinary heritage. Join us in discovering the flavors of Ise-Shima at The Matoya Table in August 2026.