Istanbulites are well familiar with the name Café de Paris, a chain restaurant that recently found its way into Asmalımescit after opening branches in Nişantaşı and Suadiye. It goes without saying that the establishment takes its name from the famous sauce that emerged in the 1940s from the Genoese restaurant bearing the same name (their recipe, of course, remains a secret). Meanwhile, the manwe have to thank for introducing Istanbulites to the sauce is Abdullah Özmelek, who grew to love Café de Paris while studying in Switzerland. This new restaurant in Asmalımescit offers only two variations on a single main course: steak or chicken smothered in the Café de Paris sauce made with 41 flavours and 24 spices, served with unlimited fries and walnut salad. For those who aren’t into the idea of a prix fixe menu, the restaurant also offers fromage and charcuterie plates. The cheese plate includes selections such as Roquefort, Gouda, Parmesan, Edam and Emmenthal as well as smoked Circassian cheese and herbed cheese from hereabouts. The charcuterie plate, on the other hand, features prosciutto, bresaola, prosciutto di Parma and smoked turkey. Café de Paris also plays it safe when it comes to dessert options: crème brûlée, profiteroles, parfait and hot chocolate cake.
Whether you opt for the prix fixe menu or the cheese and charcuterie plates, it’s almost obligatory that you give the rich wine menu a try. In addition to classics like Shiraz and Merlot, Turkish wines like Öküzgözü and Boğazkere also go perfectly with the buttery, spicy Café de Paris sauce. The decadent bar – both in terms of appearance and offerings – takes centre stage after 23.00.
From the menu
Steak or chicken with Café de Parissauce, walnut salad, fries 39.90 TL
Imported cheese plate 41 TL
Imported charcuterie plate 44 TL
Crème brûlée 17 TL
Domestic wine by the glass 17 TL
Imported wine by the glass 19 TL