CZN Burak Istanbul: 2026 Menu, Prices & Locations Guide

You’ve seen the smile. With over 100 million followers, Burak Özdemirbetter known as CZN Burakis no longer just a chef; he is a global brand. But for visitors landing in Istanbul in late 2025, the burning question remains: Is a dinner at his restaurant a genuine culinary highlight, or just an overpriced tourist trap designed for a 15-second Instagram story?

The answer is more complex than a viral video. We’ve done the legwork to bring you the reality on the ground: where you should actually eat in 2026, which branches to strictly avoid, and exactly how much damage it will do to your wallet.

The “Real” Burak: Don’t Go to the Wrong Location

This is where most tourists get burned. If you follow outdated travel guides or old blog posts, you might end up at closed doors or, worse, at restaurants that no longer have any affiliation with the chef.

The Reality for December 2025: Following a highly public legal dispute with his father, Burak Özdemir has officially distanced himself from the old locations in Taksim (İstiklal) and Aksaray. Consider these unauthorized or permanently closed. Similarly, the partnership in Dubai officially ended in September 2025—that venue is now operated by Dives Holding without his direct involvement.

If you want the authentic CZN experience in Istanbul, there are currently only two official addresses:

• CZN Burak Etiler (The flagship in the luxury district)
• CZN Burak Vadi İstanbul (Located inside the modern shopping mall)

The Cost of Fame: 2026 Menu & Prices

Let’s be honest: You aren’t just paying for food here; you’re paying for the show. Turkey’s inflation has not spared celebrity kitchens. Unlike traditional markets where you might test your skills in Turkish negotiation, the prices here are fixed and steep. Here is a realistic look at the bill you can expect (Prices as of December 2025):

Classics & Grill Specialties

A main course for one person is firmly in the luxury segment. The popular Karışık Kebap (Mixed Grill) is priced at 1,195 TL. If you prefer the classics, you’ll pay 750 TL for the Kuzu Şiş (Lamb Skewer) and 585 TL for the spicy Acılı Satır Kebabı.

The Show Dishes (For Sharing)

These are the plates that make phones come out. They are massive and designed for groups:

• Kuzu Kafes (Whole Lamb Rack): approx. 6,215 TL
• Sarmalı Kaburga (Stuffed Ribs): approx. 7,525 TL
• Tepsi Kebabı (Tray Kebab): 690 TL

The “Hidden” Costs: Drinks & Service

Pay close attention here to avoid shock when the “Adisyon” (bill) arrives. The markup on beverages is significant:

• Water (0.33l/0.5l): 160 TL
• Ayran: 200 TL
• Service Charge (Kuver): A flat 10% is added to the total bill.

For a complete dinner with an appetizer (Hummus approx. 385 TL), main course, dessert (Künefe approx. 330 TL), and drinks, you should budget at least 2,500 to 3,000 TL per person.

Etiler vs. Vadi Istanbul: Which One Fits You?

Although the menus are nearly identical, the experience differs drastically between the two locations.

1. CZN Burak Etiler For the Classic Experience

Etiler is the “Beverly Hills” of Istanbul. You come here for the atmosphere. The restaurant is often loud, packed, and high energy. With a Google rating of 4.7 stars (as of late 2025), customer satisfaction is surprisingly high despite the prices. The service is sharp, and your chances of witnessing a live show or seeing the chef himself are higher here.

• Address: Nisbetiye Cad. No:70/1, Beşiktaş / İstanbul
• Reservation: +90 530 205 14 34

2. CZN Burak Vadi İstanbul For Shoppers

This branch is located in the Vadi İstanbul Mall in the north of the city. The atmosphere is a bit more sterile and typical of a mall environment. With a rating of 4.0 stars, it scores slightly lower, with service often described as less warm. However, it is ideal if you want to combine your meal with a shopping spree.

• Address: Vadi İstanbul AVM
• Reservation: +90 212 633 31 31
• Travel Tip: Vadi Istanbul is not in the city center. Use our guide to transportation in Istanbul to navigate the Funicular from Seyrantepe.

Insider Tips: How to Avoid Frustration

• Skip Online Forms: Do not rely on web forms for reservations. Call directly. The numbers listed above are the only valid ones for December 2025.
• Time It Right: Evenings are chaotic. A late lunch around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM often guarantees better service and significantly less waiting time.
• Accessibility: While Istanbul’s historic streets can be challenging, modern venues like Vadi Istanbul are fully wheelchair accessible.
• International: If you miss him in Istanbul, the new CZN Burak Gurme in Medina (Saudi Arabia) is now fully operational (as of late 2025).

Verdict: Is It Worth It?

If you are coming purely for flavor, you can find cheaper kebabs on every corner in Istanbul. But CZN Burak is about Entertainment Dining. The meat quality is objectively high (especially the lamb), and the presentation is unbeatable.

Our Recommendation: Go with a group. Order the Meter Kebab or the Stuffed Ribs to share. This spreads the cost per head and makes the table experience much more social. If you need to decompress after the hustle, check out luxury yacht rentals on the Bosphorus for a perfect contrast to the crowded restaurant scene.