Expert Interview: Osman Cakir

Owner, Turks and Frogs, Orient Express

What were your favorite foods growing up?
Growing up, I loved to eat lamb chops, yogurt, and French fries.

Where and when did your career in food begin?
My food career bagan in New York 7 years ago when I opened Turks & Frogs.

How would you describe your cuisine at your restaurant?
Turkish cuisine.

What is the one rule or value you try to instill in all of your staff?
I always emphasize customer satisfaction and attention to detail.

What qualities do you look for when hiring cooks for your restaurant?
I always require that they have talent, professionalism, and modesty.

What is your least favorite food?
I am not a fan of pork.

What is your beverage of choice?
Red wine or gin based cocktails.

What are some recent dining and culinary trends you have been observing?
I am noticing that wine bars with small plates are very popular these days.

When you are not eating at your own restaurant, where are you eating?
Usually local restaurants.

What is your best cooking tip for a home enthusiast?
Use extra virgin olive oil. It is good for your heart and soul.

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Expert Profile

Behind the Burner: Osman Cakir, Owner, Turks and Frogs, Orient Express

Osman Cakir

Osman Cakir was born in Istanbul, Turkey in 1971. After high school, he studied Tourism and Hospitality Management for four years. He then moved to the U.S. in 1992 to study finance and banking at Columbia University. A man with many hobbies, Cakir is especially interested in sailing and collecting antique Turkish pottery, things he has incorporated into his various New York City ventures, which include Turks & Frogs Tribeca,Turks & Frogs winebar and the newly opened Orient Expresscocktails bar, both in the West Village. Miniature sailboats and Turkish antiques are scattered throughout the spaces, including antiques from the Orient Express train itself, adding to the overall ambiance in each space that Cakir has created. It's these little touches and more that intrigues his guests and has them coming back again and again.

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