1834 Wisconsin Ave, NW
From an email:
“After more than 25 years as Café Divan, the space at 1834 Wisconsin Ave NW is being revived as OTTO, a modern Mediterranean restaurant. We’re now in the final stages of preparation and plan to open in early January.
The name “OTTO” reflects a place where modern Mediterranean ideas meet the flavors we grew up with. We’ll be bringing Mediterranean and Turkish dishes with gentle, modern touches. And from time to time, we’ll introduce seasonal menus inspired by centuries-old recipes from Anatolia and Mesopotamia — giving our neighbors in Georgetown a chance to enjoy those flavors in a fresh, approachable way, while also taking a brief culinary journey through the centuries. We’re also putting together a cocktail menu that feels right at home with these flavors. Our hope is to create a warm, neighborhood-focused space that keeps the spirit this location has always had, while adding a little new energy of our own.
The restaurant is now led by Sevki Kulkara, who, like many students, began working as a barback in 2009 while studying computer engineering. What started as a way to make a little extra money quickly became a path he genuinely loved. He later operated his own restaurant in Istanbul, while also serving as a Catering Manager with DO&CO, Turkish Airlines’ global catering partner. Through DO&CO, he contributed to major international hospitality programs — including the World Cup, Formula 1, and Champions League — before moving to the DMV area.
OTTO’s kitchen will be guided by Chef Kenan Atmaca, a culinary veteran with more than 25 years of experience. His background includes leading the hot kitchen at DO&CO, where he helped oversee meals for more than 200,000 Turkish Airlines passengers daily. He later joined DO&CO New York and contributed to the opening of Foursome NYC before settling in the DMV region, where he brings both regional depth and modern Mediterranean technique.
At its core, OTTO is a concept that brings timeless flavors from our roots together with modern touches. Every dish, every detail, and every guest experience will be shaped by a passionate team united under one vision. We are setting out to offer Turkish hospitality, authentic flavors, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere — together, as one team.”
1834 Wisconsin Ave, NW
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Dining and Cooking