Turkish Traditions
Rooted in Home Cooking
Our story began in 2017 as Ozfeka Catering—a small dream shared by two women who wanted to bring the warmth and authenticity of Turkish home cooking to their new community. What started as a humble farmers market stand with a few trays of börek and baklava soon became a local favorite, loved for its homemade taste and heartfelt service.
As demand grew, so did our vision. In 2021, we opened Istanbul Kitchen at Tysons Corner Mall—a place where tradition meets modern dining. Surrounded by chain restaurants, we took pride in being the only local, family-run business bringing real Turkish flavors to the heart of Northern Virginia. Every dish we serve still carries the same care, patience, and love that inspired us from day one.
Istanbul Kitchen History
How We Started
Our story began in 2017 as Ozfeka Catering, bringing handcrafted Turkish specialties to local farmers markets. The lively crowds reminded us of the vibrant bazaars back home in Turkey—filled with fresh food, friendly faces, and community spirit. We started small, with just a few trays of börek, mezzes, and baklava, but word spread quickly, and soon we were serving at 12 markets and catering local events.
When the pandemic hit, everything changed. After months of uncertainty, a chance opportunity at Tysons Corner Mall gave us a new beginning. In just three months, we opened Istanbul Kitchen in July 2021. Surrounded by global chains, we stood proudly as the only local, family-owned restaurant—sharing authentic Turkish flavors made with heart, patience, and tradition.
Turkish Cuisine Menu
The Heart of Our Food
When we created our menu, we didn’t want to be just another Turkish restaurant. We wanted to introduce our customers to the dishes that were most special to us, the ones that felt like home. Our very first dish was börek—a savory, flaky pastry made with delicate handmade phyllo dough, layered carefully with ground beef, onions, spinach, feta, or mozzarella. This dish is deeply personal; in Turkey, it’s a special treat, reserved for family gatherings and celebrations.
Similarly, our baklava follows the same philosophy—meticulously layered, handcrafted, and perfected with patience. Both of these dishes remind us that food is like life—layer by layer, requiring care, hard work, and a little bit of love to get it just right.
Newsletter
Istanbul Kitchen Passion
Hearts in Every Bite
When creating our menu, we didn’t want to be just another Turkish restaurant—we wanted every dish to feel like home. Our first recipe was börek, a savory, flaky pastry made with handmade phyllo dough and layered with care. It’s a dish close to our hearts, one my mother and I made for every special family gathering.
Our baklava follows the same philosophy—crafted patiently, layer by layer, with love and tradition. At Istanbul Kitchen, every bite tells a story of family, heritage, and dedication. Whether you’re here for a quick lunch or a long chat over Turkish tea, we hope you taste the warmth and heart behind every dish we serve. 🇹🇷❤️