Founded in 2024 in Tokyo, Lokanta is a creative gastronomic project that reimagines Turkish cuisine through the lens of Japanese ingredients. What began as a series of pop-up events has evolved into a fusion-driven culinary experience, where time-honored Turkish flavors meet Japan’s rich seasonal bounty.

At its core, Lokanta is more than just food—it’s a creative endeavor that blends gastronomy with design, storytelling, and cultural exploration. The project extends beyond the plate with a distinctive brand identity and curated merchandise, reflecting our passion for craft and heritage.

Chef Derya Esdevlet – A true nomadic chef, Derya draws inspiration from his global travels, immersing himself in different culinary traditions and distilling them into his dishes. His approach to fusion is deeply personal, a journey of flavors that bridge continents and histories.

Creative Director, Met Ciftci – A Tokyo resident for over a decade, Met has spent more than six years as a Creative Director in the IT industry. In 2024, he founded Kkultur, a design studio specializing in vintage aesthetics. His expertise shapes Lokanta’s strong visual identity, blending nostalgia with modernity.

Marketing & Social Media Director, Zeynep Ciftci – Having lived in Japan for seven years, Zeynep co-runs Kkultur, spearheading branding, publishing, and digital storytelling. She brings Lokanta’s narrative to life, ensuring its essence reaches a global audience.