Last Thursday, the prestigious Michelin Guide announced its selection of Türkiye’s contenders at the third annual ceremony held in Istanbul, at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus. This highly anticipated event brought together the best of the best in the culinary world, as the Michelin Guide recognized the top restaurants and chefs in Türkiye.
The Michelin Guide is known worldwide for its rigorous selection process and its coveted star ratings, which are considered the ultimate honor in the culinary industry. This year, the guide expanded its reach to include Türkiye, a country known for its rich and diverse cuisine.
The ceremony was a celebration of the vibrant and dynamic food scene in Türkiye, with the country’s top chefs and restaurateurs in attendance. The event was a testament to the growing influence of Türkiye’s gastronomy on the global stage.
One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the Michelin stars, which are awarded to restaurants that demonstrate exceptional quality and creativity in their cuisine. This year, three restaurants in Türkiye were awarded with Michelin stars, a remarkable achievement for the country’s culinary scene.
The first restaurant to receive a Michelin star was Mikla, located in the heart of Istanbul. Led by chef Mehmet Gürs, Mikla offers a unique blend of traditional Turkish flavors with a modern twist. The restaurant’s rooftop location provides stunning views of the city, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
The second restaurant to receive a Michelin star was Neolokal, also located in Istanbul. Chef Maksut Aşkar’s innovative approach to Turkish cuisine has earned Neolokal a well-deserved spot among the top restaurants in the country. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and its dedication to preserving traditional cooking techniques has made it a favorite among food critics and diners alike.
The third and final restaurant to receive a Michelin star was Alancha, located in the coastal city of Alacati. Chef Kemal Demirasal’s passion for using fresh and seasonal ingredients in his dishes has earned Alancha a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Türkiye. The restaurant’s unique menu, which combines traditional Turkish dishes with modern techniques, has captured the attention of food enthusiasts from around the world.
In addition to the Michelin stars, the guide also awarded several restaurants with the Bib Gourmand distinction, which recognizes restaurants that offer exceptional food at a reasonable price. This year, eight restaurants in Türkiye received this honor, including Lokanta Maya, Yeni Lokanta, and Çiya Sofrası.
The Michelin Guide also introduced a new category this year, the Michelin Plate, which highlights restaurants that offer quality food and a pleasant dining experience. This category was created to recognize the growing number of restaurants in Türkiye that are making a name for themselves in the culinary world. Some of the restaurants that received the Michelin Plate include Asitane, Nicole, and Gram.
The selection of Türkiye’s contenders in the Michelin Guide is a testament to the country’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, Türkiye’s cuisine has something to offer for every palate. The recognition from the Michelin Guide will not only bring more attention to the country’s food scene but also attract more tourists who are looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
The success of Türkiye’s restaurants in the Michelin Guide is a result of the hard work and dedication of the country’s chefs and restaurateurs. Their passion for their craft and their commitment to showcasing the best of Türkiye’s cuisine has put the country on the map as a top culinary destination.
The third annual Michelin Guide ceremony in Istanbul was a night to remember, as it celebrated the best of Türkiye’s gastronomy. The recognition from the Michelin Guide is a testament to the country’s growing influence in the culinary world and a source of pride for all those involved in the food industry in Türkiye. With its vibrant and diverse food scene, Türkiye is sure to continue making its mark on the global culinary stage.
