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About Us
Located within The Life Hotel, a landmark of elegance and history, ZOI offers a refined yet welcoming dining experience where tradition meets innovation. Our carefully curated menu brings together fresh, high-quality ingredients, masterfully crafted to create dishes that tell a story. Each plate reflects a passion for gastronomy, blending Mediterranean influences with modern culinary artistry.
About
Onur SAFAK
ONUR SAFAK The Journey of Bringing Mediterranean Flavors to New York City Born in 1983, Onur Safak has successfully built a distinguished restaurant group in New York City by combining his passion for gastronomy, entrepreneurial vision, and deep love for Mediterranean cuisine. Green Blend Eatery: The Pioneer of Healthy Living Onur Safak’s culinary journey began in 2019 with the launch of Green Blend Eatery. The concept quickly became a favorite destination for New Yorkers who embrace a healthy lifestyle. Offering cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and wholesome snacks made from the freshest fruits and vegetables, Green Blend Eatery established itself as one of the city’s leading wellness and healthy dining destinations. Blue Mezze: A True Mediterranean Experience With its elegant atmosphere, warm hospitality, and authentic Mediterranean flavors, Blue Mezze swiftly became a beloved gem among Upper East Side residents. Renowned for its fresh and creative mezes, curated wine selection, and refined main courses, Blue Mezze transcended the definition of a restaurant, becoming a place that delivers unforgettable culinary experiences. A New Era in NoMad: ZOI Mediterranean Cuisine Continuing his pursuit of excellence, Onur Safak introduced ZOI Mediterranean Cuisine in 2024, marking the next chapter of his success story. Located in the heart of NoMad, ZOI quickly gained recognition for its modern interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine, elegant design, and sophisticated ambiance. With its contemporary dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients, refined presentation, and exceptional service, ZOI Nomad has become a symbol of luxury dining and elevated guest experience in New York City’s vibrant culinary scene. Ten11: Where Flavor Meets Nightlife In 2024, Onur Safak expanded his vision beyond dining with the opening of Ten11 Lounge Bar. Blending style, creativity, and energy, Ten11 quickly emerged as one of New York’s most exclusive nightlife destinations, celebrated for its signature cocktails, contemporary design, and high-end service. Barrow & Barrel Wine Imported: Curating Mediterranean Elegance in Every Bottle Further elevating his commitment to Mediterranean culture, Onur founded Barrow & Barrel Wine Imported, a boutique import company dedicated to introducing premium Mediterranean wines and exclusive labels to the U.S. market. Through this venture, he continues to champion authentic flavors and craftsmanship — now not only through cuisine but also through thoughtfully curated wines that reflect heritage, terroir, and tradition. Mission To deliver unforgettable dining experiences by presenting diverse cultural flavors across America with the highest standards of quality and hospitality. Vision To become a pioneer in gastronomy and hospitality, offering a distinctive, luxurious, and guest-centered experience in every location. The Story Continues For Onur Safak, this remarkable journey is only the beginning. With new projects and forward-thinking concepts, he continues to shape New York City’s culinary landscape - sharing the elegance and soul of Mediterranean culture with the world.
About
Chef Kaan
Chef Kaan Sen – A Culinary Journey Driven by Passion Born in 1987 in Tekirdağ, Chef Kaan Sen discovered his passion for cooking at an early age. At just 14, he began his culinary education at Tekirdağ Tourism and Hospitality High School. By the age of 17, he was already working at prestigious hotels such as Rixos Premium and Mardan Palace in Antalya, gaining invaluable experience alongside Michelin-starred chef Franckelie Laloum. His extensive career includes roles at Ela Quality Resort, THY Fly Chef, Empire Steak House, and Chazz Palminteri Restaurant, where he refined his skills and deepened his expertise in high-end gastronomy. Anthony Bourdain, a legendary figure in the culinary world, has been one of his greatest inspirations throughout his journey. Throughout his career, Chef Kaan Sen has represented Turkey in various prestigious international competitions: 2007 – WACS (World Association of Chefs Societies) International Young Chef of the Year – Gold Award 2008 – WACS "Chef of the Year" – Bronze Medal 2009 – European Catering Association International Competition, London – 4th Place with the Turkish Team Chef Kaan Sen draws inspiration from traveling, exploring diverse cultures, and experiencing street food from around the world. His passion for discovering new flavors and incorporating global influences into his culinary creations continues to define his unique approach to gastronomy.
About
Chef Çetin Güneri
Master of Mediterranean and Luxury Dining, Head Chef of ZOI Bringing a blend of Mediterranean cuisine, Ottoman-Turkish flavors, and refined culinary expertise to New York’s vibrant dining scene, Chef Çetin Güneri is the visionary leading the kitchen at ZOI. With a philosophy of “embracing only the best,” he seamlessly merges tradition with innovation to create a truly elevated gastronomic experience. A Culinary Journey from Tradition to Mastery Born in 1975 in Ağrı, Turkey, Çetin Güneri grew up surrounded by the culinary arts, as his family and uncles were all chefs. His journey began in 1988 in Kadıköy, Istanbul, where he started working as a dishwasher. With relentless dedication, he worked his way up through the kitchen ranks, eventually becoming a highly skilled chef. His professional culinary career began in 1994 at the renowned Hamdi Restaurant in Göztepe, where he developed expertise in Ottoman, Turkish, and Mediterranean cuisine. Alongside traditional cooking techniques, he also mastered butchery and high-end dining, honing the skills that would define his career. Prestigious Culinary Experience & Global Influence Throughout his career, Chef Güneri has worked in some of Turkey’s most prestigious restaurants: • Hamdi Restaurant (Turkish & Ottoman Cuisine) • Günaydın Restaurant (Steak & Butchery) • Rixos Hotels (Luxury Hotel Dining) • Mitgo Moric (Bosnian Cuisine) • Mitgo Steak House (Steak & Fine Dining) • Mitburger (Gourmet Burger Kitchen) • Nusret Steakhouse (World-Famous Steak Culture) Notably, he worked alongside the globally recognized chef Nusret (Salt Bae), refining his skills in fine dining, premium ingredients, and Mediterranean gastronomy. His deep understanding of elevated flavors, presentation, and luxury culinary techniques makes him a true master in the art of sophisticated dining. In 2012-2013, he served as a gastronomy jury member, further cementing his authority in the culinary world. Now in New York – Leading the Kitchen at ZOI Now bringing his expertise in Mediterranean flavors, fine dining, and luxury culinary craftsmanship to New York, Chef Çetin Güneri is the head chef of ZOI, where he redefines high-end dining with an elegant and contemporary touch. With a commitment to culinary excellence, premium ingredients, and artistic presentation, he creates an unforgettable Mediterranean dining experience, blending authenticity with modern luxury. His dishes are a testament to his mastery—where refined flavors, meticulous technique, and sophisticated elegance come together. Step into ZOI and experience a world where Mediterranean tradition meets the art of luxury dining—crafted by a true master.
