Cardiff-based sisters have captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts across the UK with their delectable creations. Simge Yalcin and Gizem Yorgun, along with Pinar Ogun, established Longa, a culinary haven in Cardiff that has garnered a loyal following. Their journey began in 2018 when they ventured into the world of cooking, leading to the opening of their first breakfast and brunch café on Whitchurch Road. Following the success of their initial venture, they expanded their culinary empire by launching a café and restaurant on Park Place where patrons can now enjoy exquisite dinner offerings as well.
The roots of their culinary passion trace back to their upbringing in Turkey, where their love for food blossomed. Simge, who had a career in teaching, discovered her culinary talents during a challenging period when her mother was battling cancer. Cooking her mother’s recipes became a source of solace and a way to honour her mother’s legacy. The emotional connection to food sparked Simge’s passion for creating dishes that not only satiate hunger but also evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia. This sentiment is reflected in the unique and diverse flavours present in Longa’s menu, inspired by Turkish and Greek cuisines.
The sisters’ dedication to crafting authentic and innovative dishes has garnered praise from renowned figures in the culinary world. Notably, Jose Pizarro, a prominent figure in Spanish cuisine, visited Longa and shared his admiration for their creations. This endorsement catapulted Longa into the spotlight, attracting a wave of food enthusiasts from Bristol, London, and beyond. The sisters’ commitment to offering a distinct dining experience that intertwines their cultural heritage with personal anecdotes has resonated with patrons, drawing them to Longa from far and wide.
Simge’s culinary prowess paired with Gizem’s marketing acumen has proven to be a winning combination, propelling Longa to culinary stardom. Their second restaurant venture in Park Place has further established Longa as a must-visit destination in Cardiff’s vibrant food scene. The sisters’ future plans include the introduction of Longa cold-pressed olive oil, sourced from their olive oil factory in Turkey, adding another dimension to their culinary offerings.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties of venturing into the restaurant industry, Simge and Gizem’s symbiotic partnership has laid a foundation for Longa’s success. Their seamless collaboration has not only elevated the dining experience at Longa but has also fostered a sense of community among patrons. As they continue to innovate and delight diners with their culinary creations, Longa remains a testament to the transformative power of food in bringing people together and creating lasting memories.
In conclusion, the story of Longa and the visionary sisters behind its success exemplify the transformative nature of passion, resilience, and creativity in the culinary world. Through their dedication to creating memorable dining experiences, Simge and Gizem have carved a niche for Longa in Cardiff’s culinary landscape, attracting patrons from across the UK. As they embark on new culinary ventures and continue to share their culinary heritage with the world, Longa stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike.