About Nar Restaurant — Modern Turkish Dining in New York City
Nar, meaning pomegranate, symbolizes happiness and prosperity in Turkish culture. Our mission is to introduce the vibrant and exquisite flavors of modern Turkish cuisine to New York City. Located in the heart of the Flatiron District, Nar is a collaboration of three passionate investors with deep connections to the culinary world: Pakize Sukan, Erhan Bahceci, and Zeynep Solak.
Founded and led by Turkish woman entrepreneur Zeynep Solak, Nar brings the generosity of Turkish hospitality and the depth of its culinary heritage to New York through a contemporary lens. Today, Chef and culinary consultant Cihan Çetinkaya brings more than three decades of international experience to Nar, shaping its culinary direction with a refined and modern interpretation of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.
Chef de Cuisine
Semih Taşdemir developed his passion for Turkish cuisine early, building a strong foundation through formal studies in food and beverage services and culinary arts. He refined his craft at distinguished hospitality establishments, including Polat Renaissance Bosphorus, Marriott Hotels, and Six Senses Resort, where he honed both his technical expertise and creative approach.
He later advanced his career at Fairmont Quasar Hotel before joining Park Hyatt Dubai in December 2018, where he held three progressive roles over 4.5 years. His international experience continued in the United States as a sous chef at the Daxton Hotel in Michigan.
In July 2024, Semih joined Nar Restaurant as Chef de Cuisine. He now leads the kitchen with a vision rooted in tradition and elevated through contemporary technique, bringing the depth and richness of Turkish cuisine to New York City.
Team
Chef de Cuisine
Semih Taşdemir developed his passion for Turkish cuisine early, building a strong foundation through formal studies in food and beverage services and culinary arts. He refined his craft at distinguished hospitality establishments, including Polat Renaissance Bosphorus, Marriott Hotels, and Six Senses Resort, where he honed both his technical expertise and creative approach.
He later advanced his career at Fairmont Quasar Hotel before joining Park Hyatt Dubai in December 2018, where he held three progressive roles over 4.5 years. His international experience continued in the United States as a sous chef at the Daxton Hotel in Michigan.
In July 2024, Semih joined Nar Restaurant as Chef de Cuisine. He now leads the kitchen with a vision rooted in tradition and elevated through contemporary technique, bringing the depth and richness of Turkish cuisine to New York City.
