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There’s a moment, when you’ve lived in a city long enough, that it starts to feel like home. For me, that moment came again and again over the past 15 years in Shanghai – in the faces of regular customers, in the rhythm of the kitchen, in the way this city never stops surprising me.
Today, I’m thrilled to share a new chapter. KAPYA Turkish Restaurant is now open at 479-1 Wuding Lu, and we’re ready to welcome you.
Why KAPYA?
The name KAPYA (pronounced kahp-yah) means “gate” in Turkish. It’s the doorway between two worlds – the Turkey I grew up in and the Shanghai that has become my second home.
But there’s another meaning close to my heart. The Kapya pepper (sometimes spelled capia) is a sweet, versatile heirloom pepper beloved in Turkish kitchens. It starts green, then ripens to a deep, beautiful red. Its thick flesh is perfect for roasting, for pickling, for turning into rich sauces. It’s humble, but when treated with care, it becomes something extraordinary.
That’s what we want KAPYA to be. Simple ingredients, treated with respect. Tradition, served with Shanghai energy.
What to Expect When You Visit
The Grill
Walk past our open kitchen and you’ll see it: the charcoal grill, where kebabs get that perfect char. We keep things simple here – quality meat, proper heat, and a cook who knows when it’s ready. No shortcuts.
The Meze
My mother used to say that a Turkish table is measured by its small plates. Our meze selection is built around that idea. Hummus that’s creamy, not grainy. Eggplant that’s properly smoky. Each one meant to be scooped up with fresh bread and shared with the people around you.
The Lamb
Some things just take time. Our slow-cooked lamb dishes simmer for hours until they’re tender enough to fall apart with a fork. These are the meals that satisfy without weighing you down.
Rakı
And then there’s rakı. Turkey’s national spirit isn’t just a drink – it’s a ritual. Sip it slowly alongside meze, let the conversation flow, and you’ll understand why we call it “lion’s milk.” Even if you’re new to it, we’ll help you find your way.
The Space
At the livelier end of Wuding Lu, you’ll find us among the burger joints and craft beer bars. But step inside and you’ll feel the difference. Blue-and-white Mediterranean touches. A bit of theatrical flair. A space that works whether you’re here for a quick dinner or settling in for a long, wine-soaked evening.
And me? I’ll be around. After 15 years in Shanghai’s restaurant scene, I’ve learned that the best part of this work isn’t the food – it’s the people. Come say hello. Ask me for a recommendation. Tell me what you think. This is my table, and you’re welcome at it.
Come Through the Gate
Whether you’re Turkish and missing the tastes of home, or you’ve never had a proper kebab and want to see what the fuss is about, KAPYA is here for you.
We’re open daily from 11:30 to 23:30. Find us at 479-1 Wuding Lu, near Jiangning Lu (武定路479-1号，近江宁路).
Güle güle – a Turkish goodbye that carries a wish: go with a smile, and come back soon.
See you at the table.
– Ugur
📍 479-1 Wuding Lu, Jing'an District, Shanghai
🕒 Open Daily | 11:30 – 23:30
📞 +86-181-0188-1428
📧 info@kapyashanghai.com
📷 @kapya_restaurant