Our Gastronomic Odyssey

It all began
in New York.

Origins & Inspiration

Two Students,
One Chef, One Dream

It all started when two university students in New York uncovered the mesmerizing fusion of Far Eastern culinary precision and Peruvian spice. Through the bustling avenues of Manhattan, their path crossed with the venerable master Chef Keizo Okitasan, who blended classical Japanese sushi craft with poetic innovation.

Chef Okitasan’s bespoke marinades and captivating Nikkei recipes ignited a lifelong culinary passion that would ultimately journey all the way to Istanbul.

The story of ioki
ioki exquisite sushi and sashimi presentation
Istanbul 2012

The Art of
Nikkei in Istanbul

Founded in Istanbul in 2012, İOKİ opened its doors with the noble ambition of presenting the freshest bounties of the sea through a refined Nikkei sensibility.

Chef Okitasan spent months studying local culinary nuances, harmonizing Nikkei techniques with bespoke regional touches to curate İOKİ’s irreplaceable signature menu.

Artisan roll with crispy potato curls
Fresh sashimi and edible floral presentation
Signature marinated Nikkei ceviche
Timeline

Tracing a
Passion

2012
Inception

İOKİ opened its doors in Istanbul alongside Chef Keizo Okitasan.

2015
Accolade

Honored with 'Best Asian Cuisine in Istanbul' at Gecce Venue Awards.

Kandilli
Bosphorus Charm

Fresh sushi artistry served overlooking the historic Bosphorus shores.

Ulus
Urban Cadence

A vibrant and distinguished sushi destination in the heart of Beşiktaş.

Karşıyaka
Izmir Garden

Delicate Nikkei flavors celebrated in an open-air garden atmosphere.

Today

Three Destinations,
One Undivided Passion

Welcoming guests across Kandilli, Ulus, and Karşıyaka, İOKİ continually upholds Nikkei gastronomy with pristine seasonal ingredients and elevated hospitality standards.

The same master craft in every dish; a warm and memorable dining occasion in every restaurant.

ioki House of Sushi today