Running a wine house is not just about building a good wine list and kitchen; it also means carrying the legal and social responsibilities of serving alcohol. One of the first documents we wrote when opening Gecekuşu was our responsible service policy. Here we explain what it means and what it changes for our guests.

The legal framework

In Türkiye, the sale and service of alcoholic drinks is governed by Law No. 4250 and its regulations. They prohibit selling or serving alcohol to anyone under 18 and restrict the advertising, promotion, campaigns and discounting of alcoholic drinks. That is why our website shows no wine prices, promotions or online sales.

Age checks

Gecekuşu serves only guests aged 18 and over. Our team asks for ID whenever they are unsure of a guest's age. This is not mistrust of our guests but part of our responsibility to the law and to society. For private events we obtain a written declaration from the organiser that all guests are over 18.

During service

Responsible service continues at the table. We serve free water at every table. Our team is trained to recognise signs of excess; in such cases alcohol service is politely stopped and alcohol-free options are offered. These decisions are taken for the safety of the guest and those around them.

Alcohol-free pairing

We wanted guests who come to a wine house but don't drink to receive the same care at the table. So we created an alcohol-free pairing menu of grape must, house sherbets and cold-brew teas, which we particularly recommend to guests who will be driving.

Getting home safely

At night our team calls taxis and sees guests to the building entrance. Driving after drinking can lead to legal penalties and serious accidents; we ask our guests to act responsibly with us on this.

Team training

Our room and terrace team is trained at the start of every season in responsible service, age checks and first aid. New team members do not serve until they have completed it.

You can read our full policy on the Responsible Service and Legal Information page.

What we ask of our guests

Responsible service works only with our guests' help. Please be understanding when asked for ID, keep water on your table, and if someone in your group is driving, suggest our alcohol-free pairing. If you notice a friend feeling unwell, tell our team; first-aid-trained staff are on duty in the room and on the terrace every evening. At Gecekuşu, a good evening is one where everyone gets home safely.

What Is Responsible Service? A Wine House's Rules on Age and Safety