Ali Dirik, Mangal II's owner, 1994

The History of Mangal II

After working as a young and aspiring chef in Istanbul, Ali Dirik moved to London in 1987. Within 4 years he opened the first Mangal Ocakbaşı on the back streets of Dalston. The innovative 'ocakbaşı' restaurant, with its charcoal cooking method was the first of its kind in London and soon gained a cult following, with numerous press reviews and awards.

By 1994, Ali opened Mangal Ocakbaşı II and later ended his involvement with the first Mangal Ocakbaşı. Embedding the successful menu with plenty of new additions, and a larger seating capacity, Mangal II became a local favourite.
 

Mangal II Phase 2

Today, run by his son Ferhat Dirik, and with the creative visionary influence of his brother Sertaç Dirik, Mangal II finds itself offering a more refined dining experience influenced by their local environment and upbringing. We provide spacious seating in a more detail-focused atmosphere. Respecting the traditions of the restaurant’s past, the menu also reflects a modern palate that’s receptive to London’s position in the global culinary scene. Working with passionate and knowledgeable UK-based suppliers, our menu presents traceability and seasonality. All this is made possible with our dedicated team, and a little assistance from our beloved Ocakbaşı grill.

Two years in with the subsequent changes, the restaurant was recognised as the 35th best restaurant in the UK by the National Restaurant Awards, and Sertaç was recognised by Observer Food Monthly as Young Chef of the Year 2022.