Cheesesteaks by Matū, a new casual concept from the team behind Matū and Matū Kai, is set to open two locations in Los Angeles: 625 E. Colorado Blvd, #100 in Pasadena and 4799 Commons Way, Suite I in Calabasas.
The Pasadena location is set to debut in late fall, followed by Calabasas in winter 2025 or early 2026, according to the Observer. Earlier this year, What Now Los Angeles reported that Matū Kai would open in Brentwood in Spring 2025, expanding the group’s growing footprint across Southern California.
Cheesesteaks by Matū focuses on just two items: the now-famous Matū Cheesesteak and potato chips. The concept began as a pop-up at the Beverly Hills Matū bar on September 8, 2022, during dinner service. Due to overwhelming popularity, it officially launched as a lunch item on November 9, 2022.
“First Light was selected for its incredible flavor, nutritional benefits, and regenerative farming practices,” co-founder Jerry Greenberg said in a statement. “It’s the best beef I have ever had, that is why five years ago I became an owner.”
The sandwich features 100% grass-fed and finished Wagyu beef from First Light Farms in New Zealand, served on an artisanal, par-baked, seeded bun that’s finished in-house. Each cheesesteak is made one at a time, with carefully portioned ingredients to ensure the perfect ratio of beef, Cooper Sharp cheese, and bun.
Greenberg is also the co-founder behind HiHo Cheeseburger, which will share space with Cheesesteaks by Matū in both new locations. Each restaurant will have its own kitchen, team, and menu, while guests will order separately and dine together in a shared area.
“It may be true that old-school Philly steaks are made with commodity beef, but it doesn’t have to be that way,” co-founder Scott Linder said in a statement. “By using 100% grass-fed and finished Wagyu from First Light Farms, we’re showing what a cheesesteak can be.”
The Pasadena location came to life when HiHo Cheeseburger discovered a space that was slightly too large. The team decided to create a shared location featuring two distinct concepts built around the same high-quality beef. When a similar situation occurred in Calabasas, the model was replicated.
“We’re thrilled to bring Cheesesteaks by Matū to Calabasas and Pasadena—two communities that genuinely appreciate great food and quality ingredients,” co-founder Ryan Gianola said in a statement. “Both feel like a natural fit for us, especially after hearing how many people were driving across the city to get their hands on one.”
All beef is sourced from First Light Farms, which Greenberg co-owns. The team oversees the supply chain from start to finish, including in-house butchering, to ensure quality, transparency, and sustainability.
“We’ve always believed in letting this incredible beef speak for itself, and that’s exactly what we’re doing with the Cheesesteak—using 100% grass-fed Wagyu from our friends at First Light Farms in New Zealand,” co-founder Michael Odell said in a statement. “It’s exciting to be alongside HiHo Cheeseburger in one space where we can both celebrate the best beef in the world.”
Pick-up and delivery will be available through Postmates. To learn more about the team and their original restaurant concepts, visit here. You can also hear more in the Emergency Cheesesteak episode of Air Jordan: A Food Podcast.
