Istanbul Mediterranean is set to expand its footprint in Las Vegas with a new location on Fremont Street, scheduled to open in Spring 2024. The restaurant will occupy the space previously held by Flippin’ Good at 505 Fremont Street, marking its second establishment in the city. Owner Zane Atlas Muslu expressed enthusiasm about the opening, stating, “It’s an exciting time for us! We’ve been hard at work bringing the soul of Istanbul to the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, and we can’t wait to welcome the community.”
Known for its authentic halal cuisine, the family-owned establishment has gained popularity since its first location opened at the Grand Bazaar Shops on the Strip. Muslu emphasized that the Fremont East area was chosen for its vibrant atmosphere, remarking, “Downtown is undergoing a culinary renaissance, and we wanted to be part of a neighborhood that celebrates local grit, late-night culture, and authentic flavors.”
New Offerings and Authentic Experiences
The upcoming Istanbul Mediterranean restaurant aims to provide a broader menu that highlights the diversity of Turkish cuisine. While the core offerings, such as the 100% halal certified slow-roasted Beef and Lamb Doner Kebabs and Chicken Doner Kebabs, will remain unchanged, the new location will introduce several exciting additions. Guests can look forward to a true Kahvaltı breakfast experience, featuring a selection of fresh cheeses, olives, honey, jams, eggs, and freshly baked breads, all complemented by endless cups of Turkish tea.
The new establishment will also serve traditional Turkish pizza, known as Lahmacun, a crispy dough topped with a blend of minced meat and vegetables, meant to be enjoyed rolled up with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Additionally, customers can sample Turkish Boats or Pide, which are boat-shaped flatbreads baked in high-heat ovens and filled with a variety of ingredients, from spicy sausage to seasoned vegetables.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
With the aim of transforming into a full-day destination, the Downtown Las Vegas location will feature a larger, more comfortable dining area, complete with living green walls, cozy booths, and an open kitchen that allows diners to watch chefs in action. “In our culture, the guest is ‘a guest of God,’ and we treat everyone who walks through our doors like family,” Muslu stated. This commitment to hospitality extends to providing a high-quality, authentic halal option that stays open late, catering to hospitality workers, artists, and locals who contribute to the vibrancy of Downtown.
The restaurant’s focus on halal food ensures compliance with Islamic dietary laws, avoiding pork and alcohol in all preparations. Muslu reiterated this commitment, saying, “We follow all Islamic dietary laws meticulously.”
Istanbul Mediterranean plans to become a standout option in the rapidly evolving culinary scene of Downtown Las Vegas. With its second location, it aims to continue offering delicious, authentic Turkish dishes that appeal to both locals and tourists alike.
