Yup! Just like I wrote in my heading - Big Chefs is 100% Turkish although the name isn't! Moreover, it was founded by Gamze Cizreli, a self-starter ambitious woman - in our state capitol Ankara in 2007.
Big Chefs Menu |
Big Chefs -Etiler, Istanbul |
Unfortunately until earlier this year, I hadn't had a chance to go back to Big Chefs since my first visit - there are just so many places to go to in Istanbul that it's hard to keep up! In fact, I had breakfast at the Etiler branch this morning and took the above photo.
Big Chefs Etiler is in walking distance my new place in Ulus where I moved to in March of this year, so I have been to this branch a few times since - especially during my morning walks with Luka, my adorable nearly 5 year-old Maltese dog
Then, about a week ago, I received an invitation from Big Chefs's PR company (InHouse Iletişim) to have dinner with the owners of Big Chefs and other journalists at Big Chefs in Tarabya, which is located on the Bosphorus waterfront. The purpose was to introduce the newly opened Big Chefs Tarabya Beach.
Big Chefs Tarabya Beach Club (lower level) |
Big Chefs Tarabya Beach Club (upper level) |
As I mentioned earlier, this is the largest Big Chefs in Istanbul and our table was set right next to the bar and beach section waiting for all the guests to come to enjoy a leisurely dinner and good conversation...
Big Chefs Tarabya |
Big Chefs Tarabya |
Although it is now very hot in Istanbul, when you sit by the Bosphorus at night you are usually very lucky because there is usually a lovely breeze. In fact, it even got a bit chilly so a cup of lentil soup really hit the spot - and it was excellent! The soft cheese and chard leaves was a nice touch!
Lentil soup @ Big Chefs Tarabya |
Big Chefs Tarabya |
spilling into the indoor section which also houses their open kitchen...
Big Chefs Tarabya |
Big Chefs Tarabya |
I opted to select the "Beef Tenderloin slices served on a bed of arugula and topped with Parmesan cheese", served with a side of French Fries (which I had previously eaten at at their Etiler branch and loved).
"Beef Tenderloin slices" @Big Chefs Tarabya |
Finally, it was time for dessert, but unfortunately I have no pictures to share because it was too dark and the photos came out bad. But, take my word for it when I say that the blueberry cheesecake and chocolate layer cake were very good!
It was a lovely evening! It was a pleasure meeting Ms. Cizreli and Mr. Tan. It was also a night of catching up with old acquaintances and making some new acquaintances.
So... I say, visit the nearest Big Chefs to where you are for a relaxing, casual breakfast, lunch or dinner with friends or family in a delightful setting. Or... go to the Big Chefs Tarabya Beach and soak up some rays!
Gamze Cizreli (standing), Saruhan Tan (far left) |
Stay well,
Dani
www.bigchefs.com.tr
Side bar:Mr. Tan is a businessman and his family is the owner of YKM Giyim, a well-known retailer in Turkey and this is his first venture into the restaurant industry. He also still retains his role as Chairman of the Board at YKM Tourism and Travel Agency.