Welcome to

Plates & Mates!

I’m Ozge, the heart behind Plates & Mates. Originally from the beautiful Aegean region of Turkey, I spent my 20s and early 30s in Istanbul before moving to the Netherlands as an expat in 2019, where I’ve been living ever since.

In my family, food is the ultimate expression of love. Sharing meals means connecting and creating memories. Growing up in a region known for its amazing cuisine, living in Istanbul with its rich culinary heritage, and exploring local foods and traditions across Anatolia deepened my appreciation for Turkish flavors and the stories behind each recipe.

This passion inspired me to create my Instagram page (@damaktandimaga) to document my culinary explorations and connect with others who share my love for food. Through my posts, I highlight the best of Turkish cuisine and share local food guides from the cities I've explored in Anatolia, as well as my adventures in European cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, Lisbon, and Paris. My goal has always been to inspire others to enjoy memorable dining experiences and appreciate the rich stories behind each dish.

When I moved to the Netherlands, I realized that Turkish cuisine deserved more visibility because "Turkish cuisine is much more than just Döner and Kebab." This realization inspired me to organize intimate pop-up dinners at my home, allowing guests to experience the rich flavors and blended culture of Turkey, as well as the warmth of Turkish hospitality. After a few successful events, I expanded my vision to create immersive pop-up dining experiences, hosting over 600 guests from more than 30 nationalities so far!

Alongside this, I work as a full-time digital marketing professional for a multinational company, specializing in food and ice cream brands. This experience further fuels my passion for designing gastro experiences.

At Plates & Mates, I invite you to join me on this delicious journey, where flavors come alive, and connections are made over shared plates. I’m passionate about creating memorable moments for everyone involved and collaborating with chefs, brands, and creatives who share my vision. Together, let’s explore the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine and its combinations with other cuisines, and celebrate the joy of food and connection!