Underneath the viaduct to the city's shared dining table: Terminal Kadıköy

In the heart of Istanbul, a significant transformation is underway. The project, known as Terminal Kadıköy, aims to bring warmth and collective living into the city's core, transforming a derelict 41,700 square meter site into a food, beverage, and socialization hub.

At the forefront of this ambitious endeavour is Pelin Akın Özalp and her father, Hamdi Akın, who view the project as a social transformation initiative. In their quest for inspiration, they studied the architecture and operational models of renowned markets like Borough Market in London and Berlin's Bikini.

Terminal Kadıköy aspires to host "the world's largest sports bar," but it's not just about sports. The project brings together brands with a gastronomic stance and original character under one roof. Among the establishments present are local favourites like Onur Ocakbaşı, Afitap, Cezayir Usta Yatık Döner, and Hebun Çorba.

The food offerings are diverse, with concepts such as Ters Köşe, Trattoria Fontana, Deli Deli, and Söğütlü Lokanta, led by chef Deniz Şahin. The central kitchen, 7DE7, prepares food for all the kiosks, involving a network with over 250 suppliers and testing more than 400 recipes.

The project also connects new arteries to Kadıköy's existing gastronomic ecosystem. This connection is evident in the approach taken by Borough Market in London, which has built its mission around making sustainable producers and quality ingredients visible.

Interestingly, Lisbon's Time Out Market curates the city's top chefs and restaurants under one roof, filtering gastronomy through an editorial lens. Similarly, Terminal Kadıköy seeks to filter culinary experiences through its unique blend of concepts and establishments.

However, the person who initiated and significantly advanced the Terminal Kadıköy project remains unidentified in the available search results. One thing is certain, though - Terminal Kadıköy is set to become a landmark in Istanbul's vibrant food scene.

Approximately 120,000 people pass through the site daily at Soğütlüçeşme, making it a prime location for this ambitious project. As the work progresses, it's clear that Terminal Kadıköy is poised to make a significant impact on the city's gastronomic landscape.

Singapore's hawker centers, listed by UNESCO as an element of Intangible Cultural Heritage, provide a fascinating parallel. They feature affordable prices, master-apprentice continuity, and multicultural culinary traditions - elements that are sure to be reflected in the diverse offerings at Terminal Kadıköy.

In conclusion, Terminal Kadıköy is more than just a food and beverage hub. It's a testament to the power of social transformation, a platform for local establishments, and a celebration of Istanbul's rich culinary heritage.