This spring, Dunedin will be home to a new restaurant concept drawing inspiration from all over the Mediterranean. Called Tapas El Turco, it’s the brainchild of musician Daryal Kafkasso Erdem, leader of the 12-piece band Kafkasso.
“We’re going to be focused on Anatole-style olive-oil cooking,” Erdem told What Now on Thursday. “It’s all seed-oil free. Those seed oils are really bad for you, and I’m trying to advocate against them. We want a place that’s so healthy you can bring your child and feel good about it. That’s the way things are supposed to be.”
A “Tapas style Turkish restaurant with Mediterranean Entertainment,” Tapas El Turco will serve up a menu of small plates drawing on Mediterranean, and especially Turkish, cuisine. It’s an approach that’s all about sharing, and about togetherness.
“I really want a place where people can spend time talking to each other and sharing their view of life, like we used to do. Not just sitting and looking down at our phones.”
Part of the picture, then, is the entertainment. Expect live music and dance (belly dancing, flamenco, and more), but at a volume level that’s conducive to conversation.
“It’s not going to be too loud. Imagine you’re hanging out and your friend is playing. It’s a place where people know you, where everything is positive.”
Details on the menu are still to come, so stand by for more info!
In the meantime, you can keep up with all things Tapas El Turco by following @tapas.elturco on Instagram.
