Semosh Mum's Kitchen - Essendon — Restaurant in Melbourne

I put Semosh Mum's Kitchen to the ultimate test by taking 2 mums there for dinner. One is my mum - who obviously makes the best food in the world and the other, a dear friend, who is also a fantastic cook and has operated her own catering company. Verdict, 6 thumbs up! The food was absolutely delightful. We ordered way too much and of course, there was nothing left!! I need to keep going back to order the entire menu.

We started with Iskembe (Tripe Soup). They were kind enough to divide the one serve into two bowls for us as we wanted to taste a bigger variety of menu items. The Zeytinyagli dishes (vegetable dishes cooked with olive oil) were made to perfection. We had the Sarma, Saksuka and the Imam Bayildi. We then went on to order the Sigara Boregi, Calamari and the Fish Kokorec. These 2 dishes just hit the nail on the head! The calamari was so fresh and battered and fried to perfection and the Fish Kokorec was a mouthful of deliciously fishy and spicy goodness with each bite. Both dishes accompanied my Raki very well indeed. We finished with Peynir Tatlisi (sweet ricotta balls) and Rice Pudding. Now as you know, my mum makes the best rice pudding, so when she says that she loved it, that is saying a lot!!! :)

The service was friendly and fast and they left us to our conversation and did not bother us much, which I like. The room reminds me of my mother's house in Bodrum drenched in bougainvilleas.

I went back a week or so later on another day with my nephew as I think this is another great test to put a restaurant through to see their consistency and they did not fail. This time we ordered the Lentil Soup, the Sigara Boregi, the Pacanga Boregi and of course the Calamari again. Absolutely delicious and the calamari was just as good as it was the first time I had it! I told the owner that if he ever took it off the menu, I would stop going!

Coming from a hospitality background and a person who just loves to eat and drink, I can highly recommend Semosh Mum's kitchen to everyone. They have two rooms and the larger one seems to be suitable for large bookings and events as well.

I am looking forward to their new wine list, which I hear will host some Turkish grape varieties as well.

Keep up the great work Semosh. It is not an easy concept when you have some very strong competition in each and every Turkish...

A Hidden Gem of Authentic Turkish Cuisine

Every once in a while, you stumble upon a place that leaves an unforgettable imprint on your palate. Semosh Mum's Kitchen is one such treasure, offering an authentic taste of Turkey right in our backyard.

From the moment you step in, the warmth of Turkish hospitality engulfs you, akin to a comforting embrace. This is not just a restaurant, but an experience that transports you to the bustling streets of Bodrum, one bite at a time.

The menu is a parade of traditional Turkish delights, each dish resonating with the deep, rich flavours that Turkish cuisine is renowned for. From the succulent kebabs to the vibrant mezze, each bite here is a journey of tastes, textures and tradition. It's clear that the recipes have been lovingly passed down through generations, carrying the essence of a true Turkish mums kitchen.

The standout dish for me was undoubtedly the Baklava. Perfectly layered, just the right amount of sweetness, it left me longing for more. It's a dessert that would make even the most discerning sweet-tooth swoon.

What really sets Semosh Mum's Kitchen apart, however, is its commitment to quality. The freshness of the ingredients is palpable in each dish, and the attentive service only enhances the overall dining experience.

All in all, Semosh Mum's Kitchen offers a delightful culinary journey into the heart of Turkey. It's not just about the food, but the love and authenticity that goes into every dish that makes this place special. Whether you're a seasoned lover of Turkish cuisine, or trying it for the first time, this place is a must-visit. Five stars for Semosh Mum's Kitchen - truly,...

Although I am extremely biased, I don't think there is a better breakfast than a Turkish one...  There's been an increased trend in lots of places now serving it, but how does Semosh compare to the others?  It wins hands down, that's how :)

The place was fully booked and we had to sit outside which to be honest was really nice.  We felt like we were in a side street cafe in İzmir (my hometown in Turkey), not across the road from a tram stop in busy Keilor Road.  The decor and colour scheme of the place, reminds you of a seaside cafe in the Mediterranean.  When the place is full of fellow countrymen, you know they are doing something right.

The difference between Semosh and other places is in the quality of food.  They don't skimp here.  The taste naturally follows the quality and everything is so fresh and vibrant.  There is a lot to sample in the spread and you get to enjoy a bit of everything.  We couldn't finish it all and walked away needing to be carried!  If the last meal I had was the eggplant side dish, I'd die a happy man :)

The simit was crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle just like home and the börek was soft and delicious.  My only criticism was of the bread which was more crust than dough, and some pieces didn't feel fresh.  I could be wrong though and this can be personal taste.

The banter with the wait staff was excellent as we spoke the language and felt like a part of the family.  They were attentive, polite and nothing was too much trouble.

We'll definitely be back to try the rest...