Restaurants open and close here faster than you can say “hesap lütfen!” It feels like just yesterday that Çapa brand's Tuus restaurant opened; now in its place, with the blink of an eye, Longtable. The interior design is done by Mahmut Anlar; though not as kitschy as It's a Joke (under the same management), there is definitely an eclectic style and funny details (think: the mini carousel-horse seated above the bar). There is a catwalk-like walkway down the centre of the restaurant, that runs parallel to the bar, or “longtable”, where pre-dinner drinks are practically required. The piano that rests at the end of the “runway” is not just for show; everyday except Monday enjoy live soul music from 21.00 to 23.00. But what will really set Longtable apart in summer is its amazing terrace. Though it lacks a view, it more than makes up for it with lush greenery dangling from the ceiling-very “Secret Garden”esque- chairs and tables of various styles and design, Greek style marble statues, and a vintage Playboy poster hung on one of the walls. Additionally, the waitresses each wear short, black wigs- à la Uma Thurman in Pulp Fiction.
Whether or not you're the type to have a pre-drink dinner (but really, who isn't?) you must take a look at the drinks menu. They have 12 kinds of mojitos, 5 kinds of champagne cocktails, 5 kinds of whiskey cocktails and 21 kinds of martinis. Every trendy bar must have its signature drink, right? Longtable's is sure to be its Saffron martini (Absolut vanilla, lychee liquor, saffron and cinnamon syrup) that is served along with cinnamon lemon sorbet- an absolut delight! As for the food, specially prepared dry age meats are on the forefront of the menu: veal medallions, veal shank, New York steak, 23 types of seasoned ribeye steaks, T-bone steak, Brazilian kebab and the 'It's a Joke' signature mini burger. There are also chicken and fish selections, salads, pizzas and pastas. No matter how much you end up eating, you must try the goat's cheese baklava! Reservation required.
Menu:
Longtable martini: 25 YTL
Goat's cheese baklava: 22 YTL
Spring salad: 27 YTL
Iskender kebap pizza: 25 YTL
Ribeye steak: 35 YTL
Fried cheesecake, truffle honey 19 YTL
Open everyday except Sunday 19.00-02.00.