Bibi’s Salad Cafe: The go to lunch spot opens new locations.
8th October 2024
Words: Charlotte Harney
Food that nourishes the body and the soul, Bibis is a spot not to be missed. With 6 restaurants over central London and 2 new locations on the way, this health focused salad bar is one for your must try list if you haven't already. Founded by Turkish born chef and food creative Bilur
Yapic and her partner Tansel in 2019. The couple moved to the UK in 2016 with a shared love for music and food. Bibis specializes in original salad recipes, made fresh everyday and has grown into a haven to escape your busy day for a calm, nourishing lunch or a go-to for a take
away, making eating at your desk a little more glam and a lot more health conscious.
Do you feel having a creative background has helped in your restaurant ventures? Do you think it’s made the way you approach your business differently?
Yes, I absolutely believe that having a creative background is impactful. It’s not just about selling food. Just like when I’m on stage and connect with the audience, creating a shared feeling and joy when they sing along to my songs, a similar emotion arises when I share my recipes with customers at Bibi’s and serve them dishes they enjoy. This feeling is what keeps my passion for my work alive. Just like my love for music, I continue to remain equally passionate about this endeavor.
Had you always envisioned opening a cafe or restaurant in your life? How did your transition from music to restaurateurs happen? What was your inspiration behind Bibi’s?
No, it was never something I had in mind, but ever since my student days, everyone who visited my home would tell me that I should do this. That includes my husband and business partner, Tansel. Thanks to his background in hospitality, we had the opportunity to bring this idea to life.
My inspiration definitely comes from our family meals. Large portions and having many different flavors together in one plate is something rooted in my family culture. The region I was born in, in Turkey, is famous for its food and dining culture. So, when creating all my recipes, I drew inspiration from the dishes I learned from my family and grew up eating.
Our menu is a reflection of the food I’ve loved since childhood
You’re opening up in 2 new London locations, what do you think is next? Six shops is already a huge accomplishment in the 6 years since you opened your first but do you have more future expansion plans?
Our goal is to grow our family by opening a new location every year. Let’s see which neighbourhood is next!
Find out more at www.letsgotobibis.co.uk