Neolokal
| Neolokal | |
|---|---|
Interactive map of Neolokal | |
| Restaurant information | |
| Established | 2014 |
| Owner | Maksut Aşkar |
| Chef | Maksut Aşkar |
| Food type | Turkish |
| Rating | (Michelin Guide) 17,5/20 (Gault Millau)[1] |
| Location | Istanbul, Turkey |
| Coordinates | 41°01′26″N 28°58′24″E / 41.0238°N 28.9734°E |
| Website | neolokal |
Neolokal is a Michelin-starred restaurant located within the SALT Galata building in the Karaköy district of Istanbul, Turkey. Established in 2014 by chef Maksut Aşkar, the restaurant is known for its "New Anatolian Kitchen" philosophy, which aims to reinterpret traditional Anatolian recipes using modern techniques and sustainable practices.[2][3]
Concept and cuisine
The restaurant is situated in the historic former Imperial Ottoman Bank building. Neolokal's culinary approach, led by Chef Maksut Aşkar, focuses on the preservation of Anatolian food heritage. The menu is designed to bridge the gap between tradition and the future, often utilizing ingredients from the "Ark of Taste" to support biodiversity.
Signature dishes often feature a modern twist on classic flavors, such as hummus served with toasted pine nuts and cinnamon, or slow-cooked lamb with traditional grains. The restaurant also emphasizes a strong wine program, focusing exclusively on local Turkish producers.[4]
Awards
In 2022, Neolokal was awarded one Michelin Star in the inaugural Michelin Guide for Istanbul. It also became the first restaurant in Turkey to receive the Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainable gastronomy.[5] Additionally, it holds a high rating of 16/20 from the Gault Millau Turkey guide.[6]
See also
References
- ^ "Neolokal – Gault & Millau Turkey". 24 January 2025. Retrieved 25 July 2025.
- ^ "Neolokal – Istanbul - a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant". MICHELIN Guide. Retrieved 30 January 2026.
- ^ Hansen, Susie (15 November 2016). "A New Generation of Chefs Is Transforming Turkish Cuisine". The New York Times. Retrieved 30 January 2026.
- ^ "Neolokal – Istanbul - a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant". MICHELIN Guide. Retrieved 30 January 2026.
- ^ "Michelin Guide Istanbul 2023: The first selection". MICHELIN Guide. 11 October 2022. Retrieved 30 January 2026.
- ^ "Neolokal – Gault & Millau Turkey". Gault & Millau. Retrieved 30 January 2026.