Salt Bae plans to re-enter the Saudi market after the closure of his Riyadh location, with potential openings in Jeddah, Mecca, and NEOM. He remains optimistic about his brand’s future in Saudi Arabia, citing ongoing talks with stakeholders. Gökçe continues to attract customers at his Dubai and Istanbul restaurants, and aims for significant expansion in 2025.

Celebrity chef Nusret Gökçe, popularly known as Salt Bae, has announced plans to return to Saudi Arabia after the closure of his Riyadh restaurant in April 2024. In an exclusive interview with Arabian Business, he expressed positivity about expanding his Nusr-Et brand within the Kingdom. Gökçe mentioned potential new locations in Jeddah, Mecca, and the NEOM project, emphasizing ongoing negotiations with Saudi stakeholders. Despite previous setbacks, he remains confident due to continued patronage from Saudi clientele at his Dubai and Istanbul establishments. Gökçe’s success story has evolved from humble beginnings as a butcher’s apprentice to a global dining sensation. Looking ahead, 2025 is set to be significant for his growth, with plans for new ventures in cities like Mexico City, Monaco, Milan, and Rome, though his immediate focus is on reviving operations in Saudi Arabia.

Salt Bae, known for his signature cooking style and social media presence, has successfully established Nusr-Et steakhouses worldwide, building a culinary empire. The original Riyadh restaurant closed due to unfavorable timing and location, prompting Gökçe to reevaluate his strategy in the Saudi market. The Kingdom represents a lucrative opportunity, and recent discussions with local investors suggest a turnaround may be imminent. Gökçe’s adaptability and the loyalty of his customer base underscore the brand’s viability in challenging markets.

In summary, Nusret Gökçe’s desire to return to Saudi Arabia highlights a potential revival of the Nusr-Et brand, aiming to leverage existing popularity among affluent diners. Future prospects include new restaurant openings in key Saudi cities as well as expansion into international markets. By focusing on strategic growth within Saudi Arabia, Gökçe aims to capitalize on his existing reputation, reinforcing his brand’s presence in a competitive culinary landscape.

Original Source: www.timeoutriyadh.com