 |
Salt BaeTurkish butcher, chef and restaurateur
Date of Birth: 09.08.1983
Country:  Turkey |
Content:
- Nusret Gökçe: The Butcher, the Chef, and the Restaurateur
- Early Life and Influences
- The Inspiration
- The Argentine Adventure
- Return to Turkey and Rise to Fame
- The American Dream
- Nusr-Et: Birth of an Empire
- Global Expansion and Fame
- Controversy in New York
- Celebrity Patronage
- Accusations of PR Stunts
- Financial Success and Personal Life
- Continued Growth and Activism
Nusret Gökçe: The Butcher, the Chef, and the Restaurateur
Nusret Gökçe, the Turkish butcher, chef, and restaurateur, has become a global phenomenon and the internet's most popular meme chef. Known for his virtuoso steak-carving skills and distinctive salt-sprinkling gesture, Gökçe has earned the nickname "Salt Bae" due to his graceful arm gesture, where the salt falls onto the dish from his elbow through his fingers.
Early Life and Influences
Born on August 9, 1983, in the village of Pasha, Erzurum Province, Turkey, Nusret Gökçe grew up in a poor Kurdish family. His father worked in a local mine, but money was scarce. To help support his family, Gökçe dropped out of school after the sixth grade and found work as an assistant in a butcher's shop. The young boy worked long 18-20 hour shifts and gave his earnings to his father. It was during his time at the butcher shop that Gökçe developed his initial skills with knives and meat.
The Inspiration
In 2007, a steakhouse opened next to the butcher shop, sparking a pivotal moment in Gökçe's life. He was enthralled by what he saw and became convinced that his future lay in the culinary field, specifically with meat. After saving money and receiving his final paycheck, Gökçe embarked on a journey to Argentina, renowned for its exceptional meat.
The Argentine Adventure
In Argentina, Gökçe immersed himself in the culinary landscape, visiting restaurants and observing the work of local chefs. He studied the secrets of beef farming and the art of butchering at slaughterhouses, gaining invaluable knowledge that would later shape his cooking style.
Return to Turkey and Rise to Fame
Upon his return to Turkey, Gökçe's enhanced culinary skills made him a standout in the local restaurant scene. He caught the attention of food critics and began dreaming of expanding his horizons to America. Despite multiple visa rejections due to financial and personal asset concerns, Gökçe persisted. He eventually secured a three-month tourist visa after submitting a portfolio of articles and press clippings about his work.
The American Dream
In the United States, Gökçe worked illegally and unpaid in esteemed New York restaurants, a demanding experience that provided invaluable training. One of his recipes was even published in a local newspaper. Although his initial attempt to conquer America did not come to fruition, he remained determined to return.
Nusr-Et: Birth of an Empire
At age 27, Gökçe and a friend opened their first restaurant in Istanbul, naming it "Nusr-Et," a play on his name that also means "meat" in Turkish. This marked the beginning of the Nusr-Et restaurant chain.
Global Expansion and Fame
The Istanbul restaurant quickly gained popularity, attracting meat lovers from across the country. In early 2017, a video of Gökçe's signature steak-cutting technique went viral, gaining 2.6 million views within 48 hours. Combined with his charismatic appearance and stylish outfits, Gökçe's social media following exploded. Within a year, he opened restaurants in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Miami, London, and New York City.
Controversy in New York
The restaurant in New York City received mixed reviews, with some critics criticizing the quality of the food and the sanitary practices. One journalist even described a steak as resembling "shoe leather." Gökçe addressed the criticism by wearing gloves and ensuring food was handled properly.
Celebrity Patronage
Nusr-Et has become a popular destination for celebrities, including footballers such as Lionel Messi and David Beckham, and politicians like Ramzan Kadyrov. Nusret Gökçe is known for his personalized service, often cutting and serving steak to his guests himself.
Accusations of PR Stunts
Gökçe has faced accusations that his popularity is the result of a $2 million PR campaign. Allegedly, his association with celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and his appearance on the TV series "Narcos" were part of a strategic marketing ploy. However, these claims have not been substantiated.
Financial Success and Personal Life
Nusret Gökçe's wealth and income are not publicly disclosed, but his global ambitions suggest a substantial fortune. In 2019, he purchased a hotel in Istanbul for $60 million and an Audi car for $235,000.
Little is known about Gökçe's personal life other than his status as a father to nine children. He has expressed the importance of family values and maintains a healthy lifestyle, contrary to the stereotype of overweight chefs.
Continued Growth and Activism
Nusret Gökçe continues to expand his Nusr-Et empire, traveling frequently to oversee his restaurants. He actively engages with his followers on social media and uses his platform to express his views on animal rights and the ethical consumption of meat.
Despite his success and global recognition, Nusret Gökçe remains true to his roots, remembering the challenges he faced as a young butcher and the importance of giving back to his community.
