From the Aegean to the Mediterranean; simple, refined, timeless

In the heart of Istanbul’s Karaköy, where history meets modern design, we bring a culinary journey from the Aegean to the Mediterranean straight to your table. At TUZZ Karaköy, our roots stem from Istanbul’s rich meze culture, and our inspiration comes from the freshness of the coasts and the flavors ripened by the sun. In our kitchen, every plate carries the trace of a region, and every table becomes a meeting point. The clarity of olive oil, the vibrant touch of citrus, the salt of the sea, and the patience of fire… We seek flavor not only in recipes but in the moments shared. Istanbul’s meze tradition is reimagined with delicate seafood touches inspired by the opposite shores of the Aegean. Here, tables are set for more than just food. They are prepared for long conversations, strengthened friendships, celebrations, and reunions. One bite brings lightness, another depth; one sip freshness, another character… For us, the kitchen is not a show but a bond that brings people together at the same table. Every service becomes an invitation, and every table transforms into an evening extended by the rhythm of sharing. At TUZZ Karaköy, what awaits you is not just a meal; it is an experience where friendships are built, memories accumulate, and flavor brings people together in the heart of the city.

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Chef A. Demir Özkal

CBorn into a renowned family in the tourism sector, known as “Hollandalı Ahmet,” A. Demir Özkal grew up surrounded by a culture of hospitality and embarked on his culinary journey at a young age. Early in his career, he stood out as both a chef and an entrepreneur through seasonal projects, including Kumlubükü Yacht Club and Club Marina Göcek.

After gaining experience at Istanbul’s prestigious restaurants Chilai and Ulus 29, he expanded his career to the international stage. A key milestone was serving as Executive Chef at Honca Berlin, a Michelin Guide-listed restaurant. He then took on the Executive Chef position at The Bristol Hotel, bringing his European experience to high-end gastronomy projects.

Upon returning to Turkey, he served as F&B Manager at Armada Hotel, combining kitchen leadership with operational management. While working as Senior Brand Chef at Dream Group, he oversaw kitchen coordination and quality standardization across the multi- branch Kitchenette brand. The systems he developed in the network of approximately 12 branches strengthened the sustainability of the brand’s kitchens.

At Federal Coffee Company, he played an active role in the brand’s growth as Kitchen Coordinator and F&B Manager, contributing to multi-branch operations, team training, and standardization.

He then joined The Stay Hotels Group as Executive Chef and Kitchen Coordinator, managing restaurant and rooftop bar operations, developing menu language, concepts, and guest experience-focused strategies that shaped the group’s gastronomic identity.

In 2023, he became the Brand Chef for Ulus 29 and Fenix under Doğuş (Dream) Group. Since January 2026, he has been serving as Executive Chef for Tuzz, Opaque, and Opaque By The Sea, part of Khai Hotels in Karaköy and Bodrum.





Gourmet Flavors

Tuzz Restaurant

Located within Khai Hotel Karaköy, Tuzz Restaurant brings together global flavors with Anatolian touches, guided by Chef A. Demir Özkal. Our dishes, which reflect nature's generosity, are thoughtfully prepared using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The menu is enriched with surprises inspired by Far Eastern and Indian cuisine, complemented by a wide selection of wines and signature cocktails. With a view of Istanbul’s historic skyline and Galata Bridge, Tuzz promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Chef A. Demir Özkal's culinary journey, from Bodrum to Karaköy, is now exclusively yours to savor here.

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