HISTORY  |  The Birth of a Culinary Legend

The Birth of a Culinary Legend

Since the 1990s, changes in white meat production have sparked new ventures in the restaurant industry, leading to the emergence of a whole new sector.

One of the most fascinating tales from this period is the transformation of chicken wings from a humble, undervalued cut to one of the most sought-after items in Turkish cuisine. This shift, which saw chicken wings become a beloved staple, is a story in itself. It’s often said that Haydar Asan invented the chicken wing dish, and this claim has played a significant role in the rise of wing-focused restaurants, starting in Istanbul and spreading to other cities across Turkey. While there’s much more to the story, it’s clear that this unique dish has become a cornerstone of modern dining in Turkey.

From a Tin Cart to a Four-Story Building

The adventure of Kanatçı Haydar begins with a humble meatball cart in Istanbul's Kocasinan district. Alongside his meatballs, Haydar Bey starts selling a unique dish of the time called "uykuluk." As his small cart quickly attracts a line of eager customers, he decides to upgrade his setup, turning his mobile stand into a fixed location with a charming tin shack added to the back. This cozy spot, which customers even wrote poems about, soon gains fame across Istanbul. Haydar Bey's clientele includes bus drivers, taxi drivers, local shopkeepers, and even new fans from other parts of the city.

At this moment, Haydar Bey turns his experience into a new culinary creation. He begins serving chicken wings with his own special sauce, which quickly becomes a hit. The wings are so beloved that Haydar Bey expands from his meatball cart to a four-story building to meet the growing demand. Throughout this transition, he remains true to the warm atmosphere and unique service that made his original spot so special. With its cozy tables and chairs, it's a place where you'll feel right at home and enjoy great conversations. Celebrating its 35th anniversary, it now shares its delicious offerings with Istanbul’s residents from its sole branch in Beylikdüzü.