New Japanese Restaurant To Open In Former Elsmere BBQ In South Portland, Maine

In April, a new chapter in southern Maine’s dining scene begins as Makoto officially opens its doors in South Portland. Located on Cottage Road in the former Elsmere BBQ space, the restaurant represents an exciting evolution for local restaurateurs Rattanak “Ram” Tray and Hope MacVane-Tray, the team behind Portland’s well-known Yosaku.

Guests will be able to watch as chefs prepare dishes over a wood-fired grill, an element that will define much of the menu. In fact, a large portion of the offerings will come directly from that grill, including seasonal vegetables, seafood, and meats like duck and lamb.

Alongside these grilled dishes, Makoto will also feature a wide range of sushi, blending traditional Japanese techniques with locally inspired ingredients. The menu is expected to be seasonally driven, highlighting freshness and adaptability while maintaining a balance between refined sushi and hearty, fire-cooked plates.

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The restaurant itself will seat around 60 guests and aims to create an intimate, interactive dining experience. With a curated beverage program, including sake, Japanese whiskey, cocktails, beer, and wine, Makoto is positioned to be both a neighborhood staple and a destination spot.

As Makoto opens in April, it brings not just a new restaurant, but a thoughtful fusion of tradition, technique, and community to South Portland’s growing food scene.