By George Capsis
At 18, Fikret Uslu took a summer job washing dishes in a local restaurant in his native town in Turkey. When he overheard that the owner wanted to sell, he came home and asked his father to give him money to buy it.
His father both pleased at his son’s self-confidence and cautious as to his age gave him only money for a down payment—and Fikret made it a success.
Now twenty years later, Fikret is the owner of Nighthawks restaurant on the corner of Christopher and Greenwich Streets. He is determined to make it one of great restaurants of the West Village, and has just invited one of the best Mediterranean chefs in New York to do it.
Eddie Seitllari perfected his skills at Kellari Taverna (19 West 44th Street) one of the great Greek restaurants in the City frequented by Mayor Bloomberg—who caught Eddie smoking near the entrance and gave him a handshake and hug of appreciation.
Fresh fish charcoal broiled to crisp perfection is the soul of Mediterranean cuisine, and Eddie has added fresh organic herbs and vegetables. As in Greece customers may select their fish from an ice tray display.
Will Nighthawks become the best fish restaurant in the Village? Fikret is convinced because he leaves nothing to chance.
