At Gastromasa 2025, taking place on November 6–7 at the Haliç Congress Center in Istanbul, Maksut Aşkar will share his unique culinary philosophy that bridges past and future — where Anatolian heritage, sustainability, and emotion meet on every plate.
As the creative force behind Neolokal, one of Turkey’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants, Aşkar continues to tell the story of Anatolia through flavors, memories, and modern artistry.
WHO IS MAKSUT AŞKAR?
Born in İskenderun and raised in Antakya, Maksut Aşkar studied tourism and hotel management in Istanbul while working in restaurants and bars, where he discovered his passion for food design and “edible art.” Early in his career, he created culinary art projects for museums, galleries, and international brands, blending creativity with gastronomy. His professional journey as a chef began in 2007.
After owning three restaurants, Aşkar opened neolokal in 2014 within SALT Galata, where he reimagines Anatolian cuisine through a modern lens inspired by his multicultural roots and childhood memories. Under his leadership, neolokal has become a landmark of contemporary Turkish gastronomy, earning one Michelin Star and a Green Michelin Star in 2023, 2024, and 2025, as well as ranking No.63 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants (2023) and No.91 in 2024.
Aşkar is also the co-founder of Foxy Nişantaşı, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded bistro celebrating local and natural wines, and in 2024, he expanded abroad with O Anatolian Café & Bakery by Maksut Aşkar at the Fenix Museum in Rotterdam, introducing his vision of modern Anatolian cuisine to an international audience.
His work has earned numerous honors, including Restaurant of the Year (2024) and Best International Chef (2025) from Gault & Millau, along with recognition from The Best Chef Awards (2 Knives).
Guided by values of sustainability, cultural heritage, and authenticity, Maksut Aşkar continues to bridge past and future through his cuisine crafting meaningful experiences that celebrate Anatolia’s timeless flavors and the deep connection between people and the land.
🗓 November 6-7, 2025
⏱️ 09.30-19.00
📍Haliç Congress Center, Istanbul
FOR TICKETS: CLICK HERE!