Zeybe

This part of the city is usually not frequented by tourists like us but the Sheraton was the only hotel available during our layover in Istanbul and the front desk directed us towards the mall (Galleria) for possible food options. Since the weather was gorgeous outside, we decided to experiment with the outside dining options. Some chain restaurants along the road stood out as usual suspects but I wanted my friend, who was visiting Istanbul for the first time, to have a rather more authentic dining experience.
Zeybe is the new kid on the block, which was founded by the frustration of its owner with the dry-​aged beef phenomenon that’s been apparently going in Istanbul pioneered by the likes of Nusr-​et and Gunaydin restaurants. Zeybe’s claim is that this process is too automated (e.g. Cargill) and creates more of a fast-​food taste (Yuck!) that lacks flavor. In contrast, Zeybe uses a more prolonged and natural process of marinating their meats prior to grilling them.
After getting a crash course in Meatology 101, we asked our waiter Cafer for tips. He suggested we start with the Çoban Salata and then choose a meat of our liking. I went with the Dana Pirzola (Beef Chops), which is usually neglected by its cousin Lamb Chops in the States. My friend wanted to try as many dishes as possible so she went with a small portion of Döner and Zeybe Köfte. Our waiter recommended that we try the Pear Juice (!) but it was a bit too adventurous for me.
After we took our first bite, my friend and I exchanged smiles indicating that this was the real deal. The meat was so flavorful yet really tender. I thought the spinach purée was a bit too heavy for my taste but the baked potate was wonderful. My friend really liked her Döner but said that the Köfte was a little bit on the salty side.
Overall, I think the meal was a big success; we really enjoyed the large outdoor seating area and the ambiance. Our waiter brought us some Pear Juice to try at the end which was a nice gesture. We walked back to our hotel satisfied with a belly full of delicious meat.