Celebrity chef and actor Matty Matheson has urged the public to embrace the joy of dining out this summer. Speaking at FX’s The Bear Final Family Meal event in New York City on June 15, Matheson highlighted the need for people to come together and enjoy meals at restaurants. His comments come ahead of the eagerly awaited fifth and final season of the hit series, The Bear, in which he plays a pivotal role.
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“The trend that needs to be anything is going to restaurants, eating in restaurants,” Matheson stated during his conversation with PEOPLE. He expressed a desire for people to step away from their screens and truly engage with one another over meals. “Also, here’s a sick new trend, put your phone in your pocket. Keep your phone in your pocket. Relax, enjoy each other,” he added.
Matheson is advocating for a return to the communal aspect of dining, which he believes has been overshadowed by technology. He encouraged diners to support establishments that prioritise local agriculture and sustainable sourcing, saying, “Also, go to restaurants that support farmers, fisher folk and ranchers.” His remarks coincide with recent data showing a decline in restaurant patronage, as many have reported adjusting their dining habits due to increasing menu prices.
According to a YouGov study conducted in 2025, over half of Americans stated they have modified their dining out habits in order to save money. This trend was particularly evident among lower- and middle-income individuals, many of whom reported visiting fine-dining establishments less frequently than the previous year.
Matheson’s involvement with The Bear began in 2022, where he brought his culinary expertise to the show as both a producer and consultant. The series, which centres around a chef taking over a sandwich shop after his brother’s death, has garnered significant acclaim, and Matheson’s character, Neil Fak, has resonated with audiences. His work on the show reflects his deep commitment to the culinary arts, which also extends to his popular YouTube channel, featuring over 1.6 million subscribers, and his hosting role on Netflix’s Just a Dash.
In a previous interview, Matheson discussed the similarities between the fast-paced environment of a restaurant and the filming of The Bear. He remarked, “Both long days, both a team effort. Everyone’s working toward one goal.” He likened the urgency of restaurant service to live theatre, emphasising the need for preparation and teamwork, saying, “Restaurants are way closer to live theater. People are showing up at a certain time. You better know your lines. You better have your mise en place ready.”
In addition to his work in front of the camera, Matheson has been busy releasing cookbooks that combine his love of food and storytelling. His latest work, Matty Matheson: Soups, Salads, Sandwiches, launched in 2024, continues to showcase his passion for cooking and engaging with his audience through both literature and a dynamic online presence.
As the release date for the fifth season of The Bear approaches, which is set to premiere all eight episodes on June 25 on Hulu and Disney+, Matheson remains a prominent voice for promoting the dining experience. His fervent belief in the importance of communal meals and supporting local food systems serves as a reminder that dining is not just about sustenance — it’s about connection and community.
In conclusion, as summer unfolds, Matheson’s call to action encourages everyone to prioritise moments spent together over shared meals. By ditching their phones and venturing out to local restaurants, families and friends can create meaningful memories, all while supporting those who provide the very food they enjoy.