Sofra — Restaurant in Toowoomba City

Yesterday (Sunday) we had a very painful and disappointing experience at Sofra which we never had earlier. We, 6 adults (4 are our guests), went for lunch with pre-booking. We have chosen two items for 6 people to share; one item is minimum for 4 persons and other item is minimum for 2 persons for which prices were noted $59 and $55, respectively. To make sure about the prices, we asked waiter: is this price for 4 people and 2 people? Her reply was YES. We ordered the items. However, after finishing lunch, when I went to counter to pay the bill, I am told that the total bill is $346 (59x4 + 55x2) instead of $114 (59 +55). I just silently paid the bill of $346 without seeking any clarification just because I had the guests with me. After coming home I made a phone call to them, and demanded a clarification for misguiding us giving a wrong information by the waiter about the price. I was told that their manager was not at the shop, and my complaint would be conveyed to the manager and she would do something for me. I was also told that the waiter has some English understanding/communication problem (not sure why such staff is employed who has communication problem). Since the Manager was not contacting me till the evening, I phoned again. I was told that she was not available during evening too. I lodged a formal email complaint too, but received no response. Today, she phoned us, but missed her call. Then I phoned her again, and had a conversation about it. But I was disappointed again by her explanation; she was defending her staff saying that I should have a lesson from this, and she would not do anything about the total price I paid. It is completely unprofessional, unacceptable and rude customer service, especially from a manager. I paid 300% more price just because her staff misguided us. It is painful and terrible. We did not enjoy at all. I would not recommend anyone to go to this...

I've never been to Turkey but I've often thought I'd like to visit Istanbul some day. Perhaps for the Grand Prix. If all the food is as good as it is at Sofras, then someone book my tickets. A parallel to my favourite local Italian restaurant: the decor is homely. Perhaps a little dated, but it feels authentic and comfortable. One thing I've never understood is sheets hanging from the ceiling? Seems to be a recurring theme in many places. I don't understand it but I do like it. Looks cool. I ordered one of the many kebabs on the menu. I do like a good kebab. I loved this one. Primarily meat, served atop a delightfully fluffy Turkish bread and drowned in a rich, flavoursome and I mean FLAVOURSOME sauce. Similar to Italian, the core of Turkish cuisine seems to be in rich, bold flavours. Most dishes seem to be largely tomato based with various spices and served with bread. Sounds familiar right? Distinctly different though and it's definitely a culture I want to taste more of. Also sampled on this visit were the sultans delight and one of the pide. The closest comparison to the pide would be a pizza, though this was a whole new level of mouthwatering joy. The sultans delight was, as advertised, delightful. There is a glossary of terms on the menu which I found helpful. Why doesn't every place have this? It's a mystery. As somewhat of a novice to this cuisine I can't make much comment to the execution of each dish, other than to say each was thoroughly enjoyed and left us all more than satisfied. Not a criticism but a small observation: not a single turkey on the menu (funny guy, I know). In all seriousness though, top quality service and first class meals as far as all parties were concerned. Always busy so important to book ahead. Also worth noting they don't split the bill so be prepared for that one. Regardless, absolutely one of the must-visit restaurants...

From the first smile and warm welcome we felt at home and knew straight away that our first dinning experience at Sofra will be fantastic. Arrived without reservation on a Tuesday night and restaurant was really busy, especially when all others in the street were dead. Our lovely waiter was extremely kind and patient and gave us plenty time ( but not too much) to come back to take our order as we couldn’t choose amongst the many delicious dishes on offer. Starter arrived very promptly and the mains followed suit in a timely manner. We were grateful that our waiter came to check if we were enjoying our meals. The food was absolutely amazing from our delicious buttery & warm turkish bread and dips(beetroot one was my favourite) to the finger licking lamb cutlets (must have). Partner loved his beef filled pasta dish (manti) The only fault I found were that my lamb cutlets were ever so slighly charred. We Shared the beautiful sundae rice pudding with berry coulis adorned with fairy floss and Turkish delight gems hidden inside. What a treat! First experience having Turkish coffee and surprisingly delicious & smooth and strong enough to wake up the dead! lol ( would be perfect for breakie). Mint tea was equally beautiful & delicate served in a beautiful glass cup with mint leaves, perfect for digestion. Took with us half of our staters for our 2 hours trip back home.

All up, Service was outstanding. All staff were attentive and so friendly. We felt genuinely cared for and definitely fed. No need to stop at Maccas on the way home! lol Will definitely make an excuse to come back to Sofra Turkish Cuisine again to try their...