Our inspectors certainly weren’t exaggerating when they said, “At Tuğra, you feel like royalty.” It all starts with the setting – the Çırağan Palace, which dates back to the 18th century and exudes breathtaking grandeur. Upon arrival, you check in at the front desk of the Kempinski Hotel, then walk past all kinds of luxury boutiques to reach the restaurant.
The warm smiles with which you are greeted at Tuğra reflect the staff’s commitment to their diners’ well-being. The service is very attentive, befitting the luxurious surroundings, but also makes you feel at home. The ambiance is simply delightful, with the mesmerising beauty of the Bosphorus and the surrounding parks adding to the overall enchantment.
The service evokes nostalgia for a bygone era. The large front-of-house team is organised into a clear hierarchy, with a head waiter, chefs de rang, bussers, etc. The different ranks of waitstaff are easy to identify, as each has a particular uniform. It’s a rare treat to find such a well-oiled machine in the restaurant industry today. Think of it as a chance to experience fine dining as it used to be.
The waitstaff’s movements are like a well-choreographed dance, creating a sense of elegance and sophistication. Luxury is the norm here, and you can expect service of the highest standard. When you engage with the personnel at an individual level, their warmth and love for the profession is palpable. The team perfectly understands how to serve the well-heeled clientele, keeping them happy and meeting all their wishes.
A good host knows the chef and the kitchen inside out. This, too, is an area in which Tuğra is a cut above the rest. Chef Emre Inanir takes traditional Ottoman recipes and gives them a modern twist using the techniques of haute cuisine. The stunning results make for a truly tempting menu. Choosing can sometimes be a challenge, but fortunately there is always someone on hand to offer guidance. And rest assured: we were never disappointed when we followed the waitstaff’s recommendations. The succulent lamb chops with hummus and pear simmered in pomegranate syrup is a dish we won't be forgetting anytime soon!
The waitstaff are always available to help, but they give you your space: they have mastered the art of striking the right balance and sensing who needs more or less attention. Tuğra’s fresh take on traditional hospitality is part of what makes the dining experience there so special.
Head photo ©Tugra
