Develi
WHAT: King of Kebabs
When I say "King" I mean this not literally per se but in a more general way....; because Develi is one of the best known and best quality chains of kebab restaurants in Istanbul, because it's one of the most popular and most loved as an institution (having been founded in 1912 in the "kebab masters" town of Gaziantep and open in Istanbul since 1966) and finally because they are quite frankly very good at what they do! The last point of course being the key reason for their continued success.
From the mezes (some of the best çiğ köftes in town) to the assortment of kebabs (the eggplant one is chopped up and mixed together over a dish warmer on your very table) and other meat dishes; all are prepared masterfully in the traditional manner. Don't expect any original fancy fusion, contemporary type dishes here - the place is a classic, its food is a classic, and that's the reason you go there.
The service is experienced and diligent; they know their meats and are helpful recommending dishes. Just a note though; in comparison to an otherwise flawless execution, don't be surprised if the same expertise is not displayed with wine. Here people tend to opt for drinking rakı over wine; so selection, guidance and service of wine may be a little shaky at times (or at least not to their general standard).
OCCASION: When you are in the mood for a long and copious meal with a carnivorous penchant. Great for large group dinners; however although large the venues tend to be rather busy so it would be safest to book ahead.
ENVIRONMENT: In general all their venues are large to very large in size; and almost always bustling with a mix of families, couples, business meals and other large groups. Some of them (Ataşehir and Kalamış for example) also offer supervised "play rooms" for children so couples/families can continue dining peacefully long after the little ones get bored sitting at the table.
Although there are several more, I will concentrate on two of their venues:
Kalamış Develi is located within the Kalamış marina so if you are lucky to get a seat out in the front terrace (or you wisely booked ahead) you can gaze out at the docked boats and forget for a moment you are in Istanbul...
Nişantaşı Develi is located in the centre of the bustling shopping neighbourhood. Its outdoor seating is more limited than other venues but it offers a very welcome change from the typical cafes/bistros/restaurants around the area; and a rare option for large groups or foreign guests.
STYLE: Smart casual. From business suits to jeans&t-shirt (but within a certain adequacy).
LOCATION: Ataşehir - Eminönü - Etiler - Florya - Kalamış - Nişantaşı - Samatya - Tuzla, Istanbul
