A Turkish film star loved how owners of a British Asian restaurant had maintained the heritage of Blackburn’s oldest pub.

The MyLahore restaurant also revealed Burak Ozcivit’s favourite meals during his visit to the county.

Ozcivit had been at the Stanley House Hotel in Mellor as part of a two-day launch of his signature scent, "Ruler - J. by Janan Fragrances". 

He also dined at the MyLahore restaurant.

Ozcivit is renowned for his role in the historical series "Kurulus Osman" portraying the life of Osman Ghazi, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. The series is viewed by millions in south Asia, central Asia, the Middle East and Latin America.

The 130-seater restaurant opened on the spot of the old Red Lion Hotel in Whitebirk Road in 2022. The listed building was said to be the oldest pub in town and underwent renovations both inside and out.

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Ishfaq Farooq from MyLahore said: “It is not everyday someone as famous as Burak visits the town and area and samples the flavours of Lancashire.

“We were delighted to have him visit us at the Blackburn restaurant. He was taken in by the old building and loved the heritage of the town.

“He was also keen to find out how we had helped to maintain the historic features of the former pub.

“He also fell in love with the rolling British hills and countryside. Despite having the option to stay in Manchester he was happier in the quiet countryside hotel.”

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Of course, Ozcivit sampled some of the local cuisine too.

Ishfaq added: “In terms of his favourite dishes he loved cheesy stuffed mushrooms, sweet chilli chips, chicken crispers and chicken karahi. The latter as we know is a firm favourite with a lot of our guests.

“It was great how he was happy to interact with staff and guests during his visit.”

Touching moment Burak Ozcivit meets Blackburn super fan