Sayit’s Kitchen serves up fusion on the go in Somers

SOMERS, N.Y. -

Sayit Berkut’s journey in food service began at his father’s restaurant in Turkey, and his passion for hospitality has stayed with him ever since.

Today, customers at Il Forno recognize him not just as a waiter, but as someone who feels like family. “I like to talk,” Berkut said simply, explaining why people connect with him.

For the second summer, though, Somers residents can enjoy Sayit’s culinary talents outside the restaurant—on Mondays when Il Forno is closed—at Sayit’s Kitchen, his food truck open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The truck serves fresh, healthy food that blends Mediterranean and Latino flavors into a unique fusion.

Berkut’s story begins near Istanbul, where as a child he was captivated by American culture, especially the TV show The Love Boat. That show inspired him to pursue work on cruise ships. After graduating high school in 1996, he moved to Miami and spent 10 years working on Celebrity Cruise Lines.

In 2007, Berkut relocated to New York and earned an associate degree in culinary arts and management from Westchester Community College. Though he didn’t complete a bachelor’s degree, he felt his hands-on experience—from his parents’ restaurant and his cruise line career—was more valuable.

He worked as an assistant banquet manager at the Crystal Spring Hotel in New Jersey before returning to New York City in 2015, where he was hired as a server at One World Observatory. In 2020, after moving to Carmel, he continued working at One World while starting part-time at Il Forno in Somers. When the pandemic hit, the restaurant remained open, and they offered him a permanent position.

Berkut praises his employers, Rick and Susan, for their kindness and support. “They open their kitchen, their parking lot, and most importantly, their hearts. I feel they are my extended family,” he said. Somers locals also warmly welcome him. “One hundred percent of the people know my name,” he shared.

On Mondays at Il Forno’s lot, Sayit’s Kitchen offers Mediterranean favorites like gyros with roast lamb, beef, or chicken; Greek salad; chicken souvlaki on pita; Turkish meatballs; spanakopita; and falafel. His platters also feature hummus, babaganoush, and chickpea salad. Berkut calls the menu “a unique combo” bridging flavors from the Ottoman Empire with Latino spice.

The food truck idea originated while he worked at the World Trade Center, though initial plans stalled. A chef friend from Turkey reignited the dream, and together they launched Sayit’s Kitchen last June at Heritage Hills, returning for a summer run through late July.

As word spreads, local support grows. Berkut calls it “the best Mediterranean food in town,” emphasizing freshness and healthfulness. Plans include appearances at festivals and private events like the Harvest Moon Festival on August 3 and the Mt. Kisco Music Festival in September. Customers can also order ahead via Instagram.

Reflecting on his journey, Berkut says, “So far, so good,” and looks forward to welcoming more diners.

You can reach Sayit at 845-282-1863 or follow him on Instagram @sayitskitchen.