At Fort Arabesque Resort, Spa & Villas, dining is an invitation to experience authentic culinary heritage passed down through generations. Today, in our Fort People series, we spotlight Chef Ali Firat, who brings the time-honored live-fire traditions of Gaziantep to the shores of Makadi Bay at the Beach Bar.
With more than three decades of culinary mastery across Türkiye, Sweden, and Bulgaria, Chef Ali has dedicated his life to the craft of authentic Turkish grilling—pairing elemental charcoal flame with generous hospitality.
At a Glance: Chef Ali Firat
- Position: Turkish Grill Master & Oriental Cuisine Specialist
- Venue: Beach Bar at Fort Arabesque Resort, Spa & Villas
- Hometown: Yavuzeli, Gaziantep, Türkiye
- Experience: 30+ Years (culinary journey began in 1990; 4 years at Fort Arabesque)
- Signature Specialty: Authentic Turkish Charcoal Grills, Skewered Kebabs & Table-Side Mangal
- Culinary Philosophy: "Tradition is the heart of every meal I prepare"
A 30-Year Culinary Journey from Gaziantep to the Red Sea
Chef Ali’s passion for the grill took root in Yavuzeli, nestled in Gaziantep, Türkiye—a legendary region globally recognized for its deep gastronomic heritage. Guided by family culinary traditions, he entered the kitchen in 1990, turning an early respect for open flame, regional spices, and slow preparation into a lifelong calling.
Over the next three decades, Chef Ali deepened his mastery across prestigious hotels and restaurants throughout Türkiye, later broadening his international perspective with kitchens in Sweden and Bulgaria. For the past four years, Chef Ali has made Fort Arabesque his culinary home, welcoming guests with the warmth, generosity, and authentic charcoal flavors of classic Anatolian cooking.
Culinary Artistry: The Spirit of Authentic Turkish Grills
For Chef Ali, mastering the grill is an art of patience, sensory intuition, and deep reverence for ancestral recipes.
Generational Patience & Charcoal Fire Mastery
A truly great grill is never rushed. Chef Ali honors time-tested techniques, carefully controlling live charcoal heat and delicate marinades to seal in natural juices and achieve tender, caramelized perfection.
Signature Kebabs & Table-Side Presentation
From fragrant skewered kebabs to tender cuts and fire-roasted peppers, every plate is presented with artistry. Served with traditional copper tableware and sizzling tabletop braziers, every meal delivers an interactive feast for the senses.
The Generosity of Turkish Hospitality
Guided by the belief that food connects people, Chef Ali treats every service as a personal welcome, ensuring that every guest experiences the heartfelt abundance and attentiveness of traditional hospitality.
"A great grill is about more than perfectly cooked meat—it is about patience, quality ingredients, and respect for recipes that have been cherished across generations. Tradition is the heart of every meal I prepare, and seeing our guests smile as they gather around the table is the greatest reward of my life." — Chef Ali Firat
Looking for Authentic Beachfront Grills in Hurghada?
For travelers looking to enjoy slow-cooked charcoal specialties right along the water, the Beach Bar at Fort Arabesque offers an inviting open-air setting directly on the shores of Makadi Bay.
Seaside Setting in Makadi Bay
Settle into comfortable beachfront seating and savor dinner accompanied by the rhythmic sound of Red Sea waves and the cooling evening breeze.
Sizzling Charcoal Aromas & Fresh Cuts
Experience the theater of open flame as premium cuts, authentic Turkish kebabs, and fresh seasonal ingredients are grilled over glowing embers each evening.
Unhurried Coastal Evenings
Whether enjoying an intimate dinner under the stars or sharing a bountiful mixed grill with family, dining at Beach Bar is crafted to be a memorable highlight of your stay in Hurghada.