Nusret, the famous Turkish steakhouse chain owned by internet sensation Salt Bae, has become a global hotspot for steak lovers and celebrities alike. Known for its extravagant presentations, high prices, and signature salt-sprinkling style, Nusret has turned dining into a luxury experience. But is the food really worth the hype? Let’s take a closer look at what makes this restaurant so popular and whether it’s truly deserving of its fame.
The Man Behind Nusret
Nusret Gökçe, better known as Salt Bae, became an internet star in 2017 after a video of him dramatically sprinkling salt on a steak went viral. His unique style of cutting and seasoning meat quickly gained worldwide attention, and he used this fame to expand his restaurant empire. His journey from a humble butcher to a world-famous restaurateur is nothing short of inspiring.
Born in Turkey in 1983, Nusret had a difficult childhood and left school at an early age to work in a butcher shop. Through years of hard work and dedication, he mastered the art of meat preparation and eventually opened his first restaurant in Istanbul in 2010. His life changed forever when his flamboyant seasoning technique captured global attention. Today, there are more than 20 Nusret steakhouses across the world, including locations in Istanbul, Dubai, London, New York, Miami, and more.
What’s on the Menu?
The restaurant offers a wide variety of meat dishes, with steaks being the main attraction. Some of the most famous items include the Golden Tomahawk, a steak covered in 24-karat gold, and the Nusret Special, a perfectly cooked steak served with a touch of Salt Bae’s signature flair. Prices are steep, with some steaks costing several hundred dollars, making it one of the most expensive steakhouses in the world.
Aside from beef, the menu also includes lamb, burgers, and seafood. Side dishes like mashed potatoes, asparagus, truffle fries, and onion flowers add to the luxury feel. The portions are generous, and the presentation is always dramatic, often involving tableside cutting or flaming dishes. And for dessert? A popular choice is the Baklava, which is often served with a dramatic tableside performance. It is traditionally served with a scoop of ice cream, and the server dramatically slices it with a flourish, adding to the show-like dining experience.
A Celebrity Hotspot
One of the biggest reasons for Nusret’s popularity is its strong celebrity appeal. From Hollywood actors to football superstars, many famous faces have been spotted dining at the restaurant. Celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, David Beckham, Conor McGregor, and DJ Khaled have all visited Nusret, making it one of the most Instagrammable dining spots in the world. Many customers visit not just for the food but for the chance to meet Salt Bae himself and perhaps even have him season their steak.
The restaurant has also been a go-to spot for high-profile events, business meetings, and extravagant celebrations. Social media influencers and content creators flock to Nusret to capture the experience, making it a viral sensation over and over again. The blend of fine dining and entertainment makes it a unique dining destination.
The Dining Experience
Eating at Nusret is not just about the food—it’s a full-blown experience. The staff often put on a show while serving dishes, whether it’s cutting steak at the table, flambéing meat, or performing Salt Bae’s signature salt sprinkle. Many guests record their experience and share it online, further increasing the restaurant’s fame.
However, not everyone is impressed. Some diners feel that the restaurant is overpriced and that the food doesn’t match the hype. There have been mixed reviews, with some praising the juicy steaks, top-notch service, and entertainment factor, while others argue that the restaurant is more about social media fame than truly exceptional food. Some critics believe that while the steaks are high-quality, they are not necessarily better than those found at other high-end steakhouses, and the hefty price tag is mostly for the brand and experience.
Is It Worth the Price?
This is the biggest question on many people’s minds. Nusret offers high-quality meat and a unique dining atmosphere, but it comes at a premium price. If you’re looking for a fun, luxury experience and don’t mind spending a lot, it could be worth a visit. The ambiance, theatrics, and chance to see Salt Bae in action make it an unforgettable dining experience for many visitors. However, if you’re only after great steak, there are other high-end steakhouses that offer equally delicious food at a lower price.
The Global Expansion and Future of Nusret
With over 20 locations worldwide and continuous expansion, Nusret has successfully established itself as a top-tier luxury steakhouse brand. New locations continue to open in major cities, attracting wealthy customers and social media influencers alike. While some question whether the trend will last, the current demand suggests that Nusret’s popularity is not fading anytime soon.
The restaurant also frequently updates its menu and dining experience to keep customers engaged. Limited-edition dishes, new presentations, and high-profile collaborations keep people talking about Nusret. Additionally, Salt Bae himself remains active on social media, constantly reminding the world of his brand and keeping the spotlight on his restaurants.
Final Thoughts
Nusret is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether you love it or think it’s overrated, there’s no denying that Salt Bae has created one of the most talked-about steakhouses in the world. It has redefined fine dining by blending entertainment, luxury, and social media marketing into one viral sensation. If you’re willing to pay for the experience, it’s definitely a place to check out at least once. But if you’re purely seeking an amazing steak, you might find other places that offer a better value for your money.
Also read: From Gold Steaks to Indian Flavors: Nusret Meets Trèsind
