Deniz Kestanesi, again

A. Cemal Ekin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 21:38:01 +0000

Yes, we went there again; it is a very enjoyable place. Tonight was the broadcast of the visit of Mr. Vedat Milor whom we saw about a month ago recording there. All in all, it was a good review but I could not understand why he praised everything served and yet gave the food 3 out of 5. For some items he indicated that he could not eat anything like it in other places in Istanbul (calamari, in case you are wondering). At the end I was expecting at least a 4 out of 5 on the quality of food. That said, I agree with the limited selection of wines. In defense of Deniz Kestanesi, I would like to bring out the patronage issue again. The clientele needs to demand certain things, be willing to pay for it, before expecting them to happen from the get go.

The evening was a very fine one with our friend Reha joining us, Jan, Ergun, Binnaz, and I. The food was more varied today. I highly recommend the eggplant “Pabucaki” and the stuffed zuchini flowers. The octopus salad was very tasty and tender. We enjoyed pretty much everything served. They even went to the trouble of making eggplant pilaf because we mentioned it a few days ago. Now, that’s attention to detail and the client’s needs. See their Web site for more information.

Dinner at Deniz Kestanesi

A. Cemal Ekin — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 20:07:04 +0000

Yesterday afternoon we stayed home, tended to some computer installation issues, rested. Later in the afternoon we strolled to “Deniz Kestanesi” (Sea Urchin) in town. The hollyhocks on the street where we live are probably 12′ tall; I kid you not! I took a few photographs along the way, including a young boy who was cherishing the thought that he had a puppy.

The restaurant was totally empty except for us. I am amazed at how people of Ayvalik ignore this fine restaurant. Our table was just above the sea, I could almost dangle my legs between the railings to touch the water. Across the way were some islands, including Lesbos. The sunset was great, so was the food. The owners are very careful with attention to detail and the quality of their food without being pretentious. The ambiance is truly enjoyable and you will not be disappointed with the food. I fail to understand why the people of Ayvalik neglect this fine dining experience. If you are in Ayvalik, you should dine at Deniz Kestanesi.

I would like to bring this neglect to the attention of the residents of Ayvalik. Without their patronage, Deniz Kestanesi will likely not survive and the town will lose a very fine restaurant. Take a look at the sunset below, and imagine that you are enjoying fine food and a glass of wine or raki; why would you not want to be there beats me. See their Web site for more information.

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Kept Light » deniz kestanesi

Deniz Kestanesi, again

Dinner at Deniz Kestanesi