Masterchef Judge Somer Sivrioğlu Shuts Istanbul Eatery Efendy, Heads Back to Sydney in Türkiye

Celebrity chef Somer Sivrioğlu, known as a MasterChef judge, is closing his acclaimed Istanbul restaurant Efendy and returning to Sydney, Australia, where he was born. The restaurant served its final meal to guests in Istanbul on the evening of August 16, 2026, according to an official announcement shared on his social media accounts. Efendy first opened its doors in Sydney in 2007 and moved to Istanbul about five years ago, where it became a favorite dining destination for food lovers.

The decision marks a critical turning point in the restaurant's journey as Sivrioğlu winds down its operations in Turkey. The chef, who also hosts the MasterChef competition, announced the move through an official statement on social media, confirming the restaurant's return to its roots in Sydney. The announcement did not specify a timeline for reopening in Australia or further details about the transition.