Page 40 - Turkinsurance Digital Magazine

38 gourmet corner

Efendi Lokanta Kru

Ügümü family, who have been chefs for generations, is es-
pecially known for the famous Turkish cuisine restaurant
Hünkar. Having decided to pursue family profession at his
own place, Ufuk Ügümü was already enchanting its cus-
tomers at his own restaurant Kruvasan Nişantaşı. He has
recently opened a small Aegean restaurant just across the
street from Kruvasan. He says that the idea of opening a
small Aegean restaurant that sustains the spirit of tradi-
tional “Esnaf Lokantası” (restaurants that offer variety of
dishes at very moderate prices for working people) actu-
ally belonged to his grandfather. As an heirloom from his
grandfather, he realized this dream and took the wheel in
the kitchen. He goes to the marketplace every morning and
prepares a menu that changes everyday depending on the
fresh ingredients. It is a small and cozy place with a seat-
ing capacity of 40 people. The big table located in front of
the mirror wall on the left side of the entrance is ideal for
family or business events. Green is the dominant color on
the sofas and marble columns. Menu of the day is written
on a blackboard framed by flower baskets. There are so
many selections that we decided to order a mixed plate and
try as much flavor as possible. You can select your food
from the counter where all the food is presented and re-
quest detailed information from the staff. We recommend
thinly-sliced salty squash with thyme as a winter special.
Mücver (zucchini hash browns) is of course among the in-
dispensable tastes. Blessed thistle with lamb is a candidate
to become the signature dishes of the restaurant. Cibes otu
(a type of Aegean cabbage) is one of the healthy green
selections. The Quince Dessert was literally finger licking
good. The restaurant offers a suitable atmosphere if you
wish to spend some alone time with a friend during the
day, however it is hard to find seats after 7 o’clock in the
evening unless you have reserved beforehand.

Efendi is a bar in Topağacı that will attract you with the
comfort and satisfaction of groups seated inside. As you en-
ter, a bar welcomes you in, and you can find those comfort-
able seats further inside. It feels magnificent to chill and
relax with your friends in the street-facing part of this place.
The cocktails served in this bar have not only coaxed the
neighborhood but also customers from surrounding districts
who are looking for a cozy atmosphere. The bar attracts
customers from all ages who like to be out at nights with a
musical selection dominated by funk and soul hits. It is ideal
for after work activities as a place where Nişantaşı residents
and visitors from surrounding districts can enjoy a relaxed
and happy atmosphere.