The beloved venue in Istanbul, Efendy, continues to bring guests together with the traditional culinary culture of Anatolia under the leadership of star chef Somer Sivrioğlu. Featured in the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand list, selected as a "Gourmand Table-Chef Restaurant" by Gault&Millau, and firmly established in the İncili Gastronomy Guide, this restaurant has made its name known both in Istanbul and on the global dining scene. When you see the effort put into showcasing the richness and depth of different regional cuisines from Anatolia, you understand why Efendy deserves all these awards.
For those closely following chef Somer Sivrioğlu’s brilliant culinary career, it's known that the Efendy journey began in 2007 in Sydney. Efendy Istanbul, which met with Istanbulites in 2022, has successfully brought the same care and unique spirit to this location. You can notice this attention to detail in every aspect, from the interior design of the venue to the table arrangements. The synergy with his partner Berk Cemail also plays a significant role in this.
Now, let's talk about what the Efendy kitchen, which narrates the story of Anatolia's ancient culinary culture, has to offer… As soon as you step inside, the elegance of the ambiance, combined with the warm welcome from the restaurant staff, gives you a hint of the experience that awaits. Every member of the team has tasted all the dishes on the menu and is equipped to provide detailed information about the flavors. Tasting each dish at your table while getting to know it enriches the dining experience. The kitchen team transforms each plate into a work of art by merging traditional Anatolian cooking techniques with modern gastronomy. The use of fresh, seasonal, and local products is one of their top priorities. Signature dishes inspired by different regions of Anatolia include hummus, batırık (a traditional dip), kadayıf shrimp, and stuffed meatballs. The grilled Ali Nazik and cartlak kebab are also must-try flavors. Especially the lamb shoulder and the tray kebab from the stone oven leave a lasting impression with their taste.
Efendy's beverage menu is just as impressive as the dishes. The bar team creates cocktails inspired by Anatolia's unique flavors, offering different layers of taste with every sip. If you want to embark on a gastronomic journey that appeals to both the eyes and the palate, and if you haven't had the chance to try it yet, Efendy Istanbul is definitely a place you should visit.