The Journey of Lakerda

Join us around the table for a special evening of food, stories, and Istanbul’s culinary traditions. We’re so excited to welcome Aylak Lakerda and Tan Morgül in Amsterdam! The Journey of Lakerda is a travelling pop-up event series created by Aylin Örnek , an artisanal lakerda producer, and Tan Morgül , a researcher and writer exploring the history and cultural significance of lakerda. Lakerda is made from a large bonito, known as torik in Turkish, carefully cured in salt and traditionally served as part of the meze table. Rooted in Istanbul’s tradition of salting and preserving its seasonal catch, lakerda reflects the city’s deep relationship with the sea and the diverse communities that have shaped its food culture. More than a preservation technique, it holds an important place in Istanbul’s collective memory, carrying knowledge, flavours, and stories across generations. On this special evening, Tan Morgül will take us on a journey through the history of lakerda, tracing its presence across language, culinary traditions, and Istanbul’s diverse cultural life. Aylin Örnek will bring her traditionally prepared lakerda to the table, sharing the flavours of this centuries-old craft. To accompany this special gathering, Chef Esra Acar Koç will prepare a selection of meze inspired by Istanbul’s rich culinary heritage. Together, we’ll explore the stories behind the food while sharing a table, tasting, listening, and celebrating the traditions that connect us. The Menu A selection of lakerda and meze, prepared for sharing around the table. The Highlight Traditionally salt-cured lakerda, prepared by Aylin Örnek To start with Dried fig butter, pide and sourdough bread Fava, pickled chanterelle mushrooms Smoked eel, purslane sauce, crispy bread Chilled beef tongue, beets Herbed einkorn pilaf Circassian duck with fresh coriander and oranges Warm Paçanga börek Dessert Pumpkin dessert with almonds and tahini cream To Accompany the Evening Beylerbeyi Rakı — will be poured generously by bringing the spirit of Istanbul’s tradition to the table. Join Us An evening of storytelling, shared plates, and culinary heritage — bringing a little of Istanbul’s history and spirit to Amsterdam. We’d love for you to join us around the table. Please note: As this is a specially curated set menu, we’re unfortunately unable to accommodate dietary restrictions or individual menu adjustments. Thank you for your understanding.