Did a mosque in Istanbul ever have a herd of buffalo? At the Hasan Fehmi Özsüt Camii, the answer is a resounding yes. This mosque, known locally as Karaköy Özsüt, has a history as rich as the clotted cream it’s famous for. The story begins in 1915 when the original Özsüt family opened a small eatery. Today, Hasan Fehmi Özsüt, the third-generation owner, carries on the tradition. The building itself might appear unassuming, with its simple interior and fluorescent lights. But don’t let that fool you. The real magic lies in the food, specifically the kaymak. Hasan takes great pride in his kaymak, a Turkish clotted cream made from the fresh milk of his own buffalo herd. He frequently travels 125km to his ranch to milk the buffalo and gather the milk himself. He even proudly shows visitors pictures of his baby buffalo. The kaymak is served with honey and spread on fresh bread, a classic Turkish breakfast combination. It’s a truly decadent experience. Beyond the kaymak, Hasan Fehmi Özsüt Camii is also known for its menemen, a flavorful Turkish scrambled egg dish made with tomatoes, cheese, spices, and often sucuk, a spicy Turkish sausage. And don’t forget the lentil soup. Hasan’s lentil soup is legendary, made with lentils, potatoes, green peppers, butter, and a special “red oil” made from buffalo cream, black olives, and red pepper. It’s a culinary masterpiece. As you enjoy the delicious food, you can chat with Hasan, who speaks perfect English. He loves sharing stories about his time studying in the US, his ranch, and the nuances of Turkish and Kurdish cuisine. A visit to the Hasan Fehmi Özsüt Camii is more than just a meal. It’s a glimpse into the heart of Turkish hospitality and culinary tradition. It’s a place where history, culture, and delicious food come together to create an unforgettable experience.
Ataköy 1. Kısım Mahallesi
Ataköy 1 Kısım a peaceful residential area. Its history is interwoven with the broader story of Ataköy. Ataköy itself began