In the ever-evolving world of internet sensations, few have achieved the lasting fame of Nusret Gökçe, better known as “Salt Bae.” This Turkish chef became a global sensation in 2017 when a video of him sprinkling salt on a perfectly cooked steak went viral, earning him the nickname “Salt Bae.” However, Nusret Gökçe is far more than just a viral meme. Behind the stylish sunglasses, tight white t-shirts, and dramatic salting technique lies a man who has built an international culinary empire. This article delves deep into the life and career of Salt Bae, exploring his restaurants, pricing strategies, net worth, personal life, and even details such as his height.
The Rise of Salt Bae
Nusret Gökçe was born in 1983 in Erzurum, Turkey, into a modest family. His father was a miner, and financial constraints forced Nusret to drop out of school at a young age. To support his family, he began working as an apprentice to a butcher in Istanbul. During these formative years, he developed his passion for meat and honed the skills that would later define his career.
In 2010, after years of working in the meat industry and saving every penny he earned, Gökçe opened his first Nusr-Et Steakhouse in Istanbul. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its high-quality meats and exceptional service. However, it wasn’t until January 2017, when he posted a video of himself slicing and salting a steak with an exaggerated flourish, that he became a global sensation. The video went viral almost instantly, earning millions of views and turning Gökçe into the internet’s beloved “Salt Bae.” His unique blend of showmanship and culinary expertise captured the world’s attention, and the meme became a cultural phenomenon.
Salt Bae’s Restaurants
Following the viral success of the “Salt Bae” meme, Gökçe capitalized on his newfound fame by expanding his restaurant empire. His Nusr-Et Steakhouse chain, named after a play on his first name and the Turkish word for meat (“Et”), now boasts locations in major cities worldwide, including New York, Miami, London, Dubai, and Mykonos.
Nusr-Et restaurants are known for their luxurious ambience, top-quality meat cuts, and theatrical dining experience. The signature dishes at Nusr-Et include perfectly cooked steaks, lamb chops, and the now-infamous golden tomahawk steak, which is coated in edible gold leaf. Gökçe often appears at his restaurants, delighting diners with his iconic salting move at their tables.
The dining experience at Nusr-Et is not just about the food; it’s a spectacle. The waitstaff, dressed in black, are well-trained in showmanship, mimicking Salt Bae’s gestures and serving dishes with flair. The combination of high-quality ingredients, excellent service, and a touch of theatrics has made Nusr-Et a favourite among celebrities, who frequently share their experiences on social media, further boosting the restaurant’s popularity.
Nusr-Et Restaurant Prices
While the dining experience at Nusr-Et is undeniably unique, it comes at a steep price. The restaurant’s pricing has been a topic of much discussion and controversy, with some praising the quality of the food and service while others criticize the exorbitant costs. For example, the famous golden tomahawk steak can cost diners several hundred dollars, depending on the location.
A typical meal at Nusr-Et can easily run into hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially if you indulge in the premium items on the menu. For instance, a single golden tomahawk steak costs around $1,100 in New York, while a simple beef carpaccio might be priced at $60. The high prices are partly justified by the quality of the meat sourced from the best farms around the world and the extravagant dining experience accompanying each meal.
However, the steep prices have not been without controversy. Some diners have expressed outrage after receiving their bills, leading to media coverage and online debates about whether the experience is worth the cost. Despite the controversy, Nusr-Et continues to attract a wealthy clientele, many of whom are willing to pay a premium for dining in Salt Bae’s presence and sharing their experience on social media.
Salt Bae’s Net Worth
Nusret Gökçe’s success as a restaurateur and internet sensation has translated into significant financial gains. As of 2024, his estimated net worth is around $70 million, making him one of the wealthiest chefs in the world. Gökçe’s income is derived primarily from his chain of Nusr-Et steakhouses, which have become incredibly lucrative thanks to their global reach and high price points.
In addition to his restaurant empire, Gökçe has also profited from his strong social media presence. With millions of followers on platforms like Instagram, he earns considerably from brand endorsements, sponsored posts, and merchandise sales. His online fame has also opened doors to various business ventures, including collaborations with luxury brands and appearances at high-profile events.
Gökçe’s wealth is a testament to his culinary skills and savvy business acumen. He has expertly leveraged his internet fame to build a brand synonymous with luxury dining, and he shows no signs of slowing down. In recent years, he has hinted at plans to expand his restaurant empire, with new locations and concepts in the works.
Personal Life of Salt Bae
Despite his public persona as Salt Bae, Nusret Gökçe is known to be quite private regarding his personal life. Little is known about his family or relationships, and he rarely discusses his private life in interviews or on social media. As of 2024, Gökçe is not publicly known to be married, and little information is available about any significant others.
Gökçe has, however, been vocal about his love for his family, particularly his parents, who he credits with instilling in him the values of hard work and perseverance. He has also shared that he remains close to his siblings, who have supported him throughout his journey from a humble butcher’s apprentice to an international sensation.
While much of Gökçe’s life revolves around his restaurants and business ventures, he also enjoys a lavish lifestyle. His social media accounts offer glimpses into his life, showcasing his love for luxury cars, watches, and travel. However, despite his wealth and fame, Gökçe is often seen as down-to-earth, particularly when interacting with fans and employees.
Salt Bae’s Physical Appearance and Height
In addition to his culinary talents and viral fame, Nusret Gökçe’s physical appearance has also contributed to his iconic status. Standing approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall, Gökçe may not be the tallest figure, but his presence is undeniably commanding. His signature look, which includes aviator sunglasses, a tight white t-shirt, and slicked-back hair, has become synonymous with the Salt Bae brand.
Gökçe’s style is as much a part of his brand as his salting technique. The sunglasses he rarely sees without add an air of mystery, while his fitted clothing highlights his athletic physique. His carefully curated image has made him a fashion icon in his own right, influencing trends and inspiring countless imitations worldwide.
The Salt Bae pose, where Gökçe sprinkles salt with a flourish from a height, has also become a part of his physical identity. This gesture, combined with his distinctive style, has cemented his place in pop culture, making him instantly recognizable to millions of people around the globe.
Conclusion
Nusret Gökçe, or Salt Bae, is more than just a fleeting internet meme. He is a skilled chef, a savvy businessman, and a cultural icon who has built a global brand on the back of a viral moment. From his humble beginnings in Turkey to the heights of international fame, Gökçe’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and a bit of showmanship.
His Nusr-Et restaurants, known for their high prices and luxurious dining experiences, continue to attract a wealthy and celebrity-filled clientele, contributing to his impressive net worth. Meanwhile, his private life remains largely a mystery, adding to the intrigue surrounding him. At around 5 feet 8 inches tall, Gökçe may not stand out in a crowd based on height alone. Still, his iconic look and larger-than-life personality ensure he will remain a towering figure in culinary arts and pop culture for years.
As Salt Bae continues to expand his empire and influence, it’s clear that his impact on the world extends far beyond a single viral video. He has become a symbol of modern celebrity, where culinary excellence, internet fame, and business savvy intersect to create a global phenomenon.
