Our Story

The Story of Mare Gastro: A Fine Dining Philosophy by the Lake

2026-08-176 min readMare Gastro
Chef Doğan Anapa in the kitchen — the story and philosophy of Mare Gastro

A restaurant is defined not just by its menu, but by the story and philosophy behind it. The story of Mare Gastro is shaped by Lake Sapanca, the Didi Otel garden, and the perspective a chef brought to the kitchen.

Where and How Was Mare Gastro Born?

Mare Gastro came to life in the garden of Didi Otel, right on the shore of Lake Sapanca, with a concept designed by Kadir Çiçek: adding a fine dining experience without disturbing the lake's natural texture.

Why "Mare"?

The name is a nod to the spirit of the Mediterranean. Mare Gastro's kitchen combines the fresh, simple, ingredient-respecting approach of the Aegean and Mediterranean with the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Sapanca.

A general view of Mare Gastro from the Didi Otel garden — Sapanca
Mare Gastro's lakeside setting

The Name Behind the Kitchen: Doğan Anapa

Executive Chef Doğan Anapa is known for the storytelling he brings to the kitchen from his background in cinema. Every menu works for him like the structure of a scene — a flow from starter to dessert.

Fine Dining, Without the Fuss

Mare Gastro's philosophy is based not on a heavy, showy notion of fine dining, but on a simple, sincere presentation that lets the quality of the ingredients speak. Since the lake's view already sets a scene on its own, the plate's presentation completes this calm without disturbing it.

Mare Gastro Today

Today, open 24 hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, accompanied by live music on weekends, with a seasonal menu, Mare Gastro has become the address for those seeking fine dining in Sapanca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mare Gastro · Sapanca
Whose project is Mare Gastro?
Mare Gastro was brought to life as a concept designed by Kadir Çiçek in the Didi Otel garden; Executive Chef Doğan Anapa leads the kitchen.
What is Mare Gastro's culinary approach?
A simple, ingredient-respecting approach to Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine, standing out with fresh seafood and seasonal dishes.
Where is Mare Gastro located?
Right on the shore of Lake Sapanca, in the garden of Didi Otel.
What is Chef Doğan Anapa's background?
Doğan Anapa moved from the cinema industry to the kitchen, carrying that storytelling into the structure of the menu as well.

Reserve your table

Reserve your table for an unforgettable evening by Lake Sapanca, in the garden of Didi Otel.

You Might Also Like
Chef Doğan Anapa portrait — Mare Gastro Executive Chef, Sapanca
Our Chef
Who Is Chef Doğan Anapa? Mare Gastro's Executive Chef
Chef Doğan Anapa — Mare Gastro Executive Chef, Sapanca
Fine Dining
Chef Doğan Anapa: A Journey from Cinema to the Kitchen
Didi Otel garden and Mare Gastro — Sapanca
Didi Otel
A Gourmet Experience in the Didi Otel Garden: Mare Gastro