In This Space

I’m Dilara — a chef, creative director and former publisher sharing tested, seasonal recipes rooted in real life, good ingredients, and slow living.

I was the editor of The Guide Istanbul and The Guide Bodrum for years, covering places, people, and taste. Later, I trained as a chef and worked in both restaurant and private kitchens, before shifting my focus to recipe development, food styling, and content creation.

This Substack is where I share what I’m cooking at home each week — recipes I’ve developed and refined over time, an ingredient I’m excited about, or a kitchen note I don’t want to forget.

My cooking is often Mediterranean in spirit, but not limited by it. I care about simplicity, flavor, and ingredients that feel good to eat. I like food that brings people together — but also food that’s just for you.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Seasonal recipes

• Personal kitchen notes

• Occasional travel dispatches from Bodrum and beyond

Love & Light

Afiyet olsun,

Dilara