Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gökçe, became an internet sensation in 2017 with a viral video where he dramatically sprinkled salt over meat, giving him his now-famous nickname. Since then, he has built a restaurant empire that spans multiple countries, including Turkey, the UAE, and the United States. Despite mixed reviews of his food quality, Salt Bae’s restaurants are known for their high prices, luxurious dining experiences, and celebrity clientele.
By 2024, Salt Bae has remained a figure of fascination, often making headlines not only for his restaurants but also for his bold presence on social media and involvement in events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His estimated net worth in 2024 is around $70 million, which reflects the success of his luxury steakhouse chain, Nusr-Et.
Key Takeaways
- Salt Bae, born Nusret Gökçe, rose to fame in 2017 with a viral video of his unique salting technique.
- His Nusr-Et Steakhouse chain has branches across several countries, including Turkey, Dubai, and the U.S.
- In 2024, Salt Bae’s net worth is approximately $70 million, with most of his income from his luxury restaurants.
- His restaurants offer a high-end dining experience, but reviews often mention their exorbitant prices.
- Salt Bae’s presence at high-profile events, such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup, has kept him in the public eye.
Salt Bae Restaurant – A Global Luxury Experience
Salt Bae’s restaurants, known as Nusr-Et Steakhouses, have gained global attention for their high-end dining experience and celebrity visits. Founded in 2010, the first location opened in Istanbul, Turkey, in the Kadıköy district. Since then, the Nusr-Et brand has expanded to cities like Dubai, New York, London, and many more.
Salt Bae Istanbul: Where It All Started
The original Nusr-Et Steakhouse in Istanbul remains one of the most visited restaurants in the city. Known for its high-quality meats and tableside preparation, the restaurant offers signature dishes such as Ottoman Steak, making it a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
Salt Bae Dubai: A Hub for Celebrity Clients
Opened in 2014, Nusr-Et in Dubai quickly became a luxury hotspot. With opulent interiors and a reputation for serving some of the world’s wealthiest clientele, this location is famous not only for its food but also for its extravagant decor. Visitors can expect to see Salt Bae himself making appearances, adding his signature touch to their meals.
Salt Bae Restaurant London and New York
In London, the Nusr-Et restaurant is famous for its expensive steaks, some costing as much as £700. Despite facing controversies, including complaints about pricing and worker treatment, the restaurant has maintained its status as a go-to destination for those seeking a unique dining experience. The New York branch, opened in 2018, was less successful and closed in 2023 due to struggles with profitability and mixed reviews.
Salt Bae Meme – How a Simple Video Changed Everything
In 2017, Salt Bae became an overnight internet celebrity thanks to a meme created from his video. The way he sprinkled salt on a perfectly cooked steak with an exaggerated flair captured the attention of millions, quickly becoming one of the most shared memes and GIFs across social media. His instantly recognizable pose, where he lets the salt fall delicately from his fingers, became a symbol of style, flair, and fun.
The Iconic Salt Bae GIF
GIFs of Salt Bae performing his signature salt sprinkle are still popular today. These short clips have been used to represent style, precision, and creativity in various contexts, adding to his ongoing relevance in internet culture.
Salt Bae World Cup Controversy
During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Salt Bae found himself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. He was seen interacting with players during the trophy presentation, even holding the World Cup trophy itself—a moment usually reserved for players and coaches. This sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about the commercialization of such significant sporting events.
Salt Bae Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, Salt Bae’s net worth is estimated to be around $70 million. His wealth comes from his successful chain of steakhouses and various endorsements. Despite criticism for the high prices and mixed reviews of his restaurants, his unique branding and ability to generate viral moments have kept his business thriving.
The menu at Nusr-Et restaurants features a wide range of premium meat dishes, including the famous Tomahawk steak, Beef Carpaccio, and various appetizers. The prices reflect the luxury experience, with some steaks costing hundreds of dollars. While the food quality has received mixed feedback, the presentation and overall dining experience remain a significant draw for many guests.
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nusret Gökçe |
| Born | 1983, Turkey |
| Famous For | The "Salt Bae" meme and luxury Nusr-Et Steakhouse chain |
| First Restaurant Opened | 2010, Istanbul, Turkey |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated $70 million |
| Signature Dish | Tomahawk steak |
| Controversies | World Cup 2022 behavior, high restaurant prices, mixed food quality |
| Restaurants | Locations in Istanbul, Dubai, London, New York (closed in 2023), and more |
FAQs
Who is Salt Bae?
Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gökçe, is a Turkish chef and restaurateur who gained worldwide fame in 2017 due to his unique style of sprinkling salt on meat.
What is Salt Bae’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Salt Bae’s estimated net worth is around $70 million, primarily from his Nusr-Et Steakhouse chain and other business ventures.
Where are Salt Bae’s restaurants located?
Salt Bae’s Nusr-Et restaurants can be found in several cities, including Istanbul, Dubai, and London. The New York location closed in 2023.
What is on the Salt Bae menu?
The Nusr-Et menu features high-quality cuts of meat such as Tomahawk steaks, ribeyes, and Beef Carpaccio. Prices are notably high, reflecting the luxurious experience.
Why did Salt Bae become famous?
Salt Bae became famous after a viral video in 2017 showed his flamboyant method of sprinkling salt on a steak. The video spawned a widely shared meme and made him an internet sensation.
What happened with Salt Bae at the 2022 World Cup?
Salt Bae was criticized for his actions during the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy presentation, where he was seen holding the trophy and interacting with players, which many felt was inappropriate.