Casa Lavanda
| Casa Lavanda | |
|---|---|
Interactive map of Casa Lavanda | |
| Restaurant information | |
| Head chef | Emre Şen |
| Chef | Emre Şen |
| Food type | Mediterranean, Farm-to-table |
| Rating | (2025–2026) Michelin green star Gault & Millau: 3 Toques (15.5/20) |
| Location | Şile, Istanbul, Turkey |
| Website | www |
Casa Lavanda is a Michelin-starred restaurant and boutique hotel located in the Ulupelit village of Şile, Istanbul, Turkey. Established in 2009 by the Şen family, it is recognized for its "farm-to-table" philosophy and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine led by Chef Emre Şen.[1] In 2024, it became one of the first restaurants in Turkey to hold both a Michelin Star and a Michelin Green Star.[2]
History
The foundations of Casa Lavanda were laid in 1992 when the Şen family built a private country house in Ulupelit. Initially a family retreat, the property was transformed into a boutique hotel and restaurant in 2009 by Feryal and Ahmet Şen. The establishment is currently managed by their sons, Ekin Şen and Chef Emre Şen.[3] The transition to professional gastronomy was rooted in the family's Northern Aegean heritage and their tradition of large communal meals.[3]
Cuisine
Chef Emre Şen describes his culinary style as Mediterranean, influenced by classical Italian techniques and a "less is more" philosophy.[4] The menu is built around seasonal availability, with signature dishes including chestnut soup made with Zonguldak chestnuts, handmade egg-yolk tagliatelle, and wild porcini mushrooms sourced from the surrounding forests.[5] The establishment also features a comprehensive wine cellar housing selections from over 20 local Turkish producers and 100 international labels.[4]
Sustainability
Casa Lavanda is a pioneer of sustainable gastronomy in Turkey, managing 2,000 square meters of biodynamic farmland that meets 80% of its vegetable needs.[3] The establishment operates a zero-organic-waste policy, converting all kitchen and garden waste into on-site compost.[5] In 2025, it was awarded a 3-star rating by the Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA) through the "Food Made Good" standard, achieving a high score of 84%.[6]
References
- ^ "Casa Lavanda – Istanbul - a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant". MICHELIN Guide. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
- ^ "Artık 1 Michelin Yıldızı Ve Yeşil Yıldızı Var: Casa Lavanda". Lezzet. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
- ^ a b c "Casa Lavanda'nın Şile İzini Taşıyan Tabakları". Food in Life. 21 November 2023. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
- ^ a b "Casa Lavanda". Gault & Millau. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
- ^ a b "Emre Şen". Şamdan Plus. 30 November 2022. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
- ^ "Casa Lavanda SRA 3 Stars". Instagram. Retrieved 1 February 2026.