Stories & recipes from Elif's sunlit Istanbul kitchen
Olive oil-slow Turkish cooking translated into kind English instructions — from meze spreads and simit breakfasts to charcoal kebap suppers. Follow Elif's rhythm of market mornings, copper pots, and generous tables.
Project status
Just getting started
Newsletter status
In progress
Table community
Opening soon
Sofra routes
Turkish flavors in focus
Kitchen rituals
Small habits from Istanbul balconies
Elif jots these reminders between simmering pots and ferry rides. Keep them nearby — they season every platter.
Çay simit pause
Warm sesame simit with tulip glasses of tea keeps mornings gentle and grounded.
Copper pot patience
Slow güveç stews and pekmez syrups teach unhurried stirring and trust.
Spice spoon rituals
Toast cumin, sumac, and pepper in tiny spoons so aromas bloom before serving.
Featured Anatolian recipes
Pazar mektubu (coming soon)
Soon Elif will share market hauls, spice swaps, and a dish to prep ahead of the week. The newsletter is currently being set up.
The Pazar newsletter is still in progress. Sign-ups will open here soon.