Went here last night with some friends. Had heard really good things about the food. We had only finally decided on this restaurant the night before but when we called to make a reservation, they were quite busy and couldn’t take the reservation. But the next morning, they called me back to make sure they could book us in. They wanted us to come earlier but since we had friends coming in from the west end, we couldn’t make an early reservation.
Walking in, I could see that the majority of tables were reserved. They had to turn away many of the walk-ins that came. The restaurant seats maybe 50 people so it’s quite small. Remember to make a reservation if you want to go there.
The decor and atmosphere is quite nice. I felt really comfortable. They had bucket chairs and booths, so my back didn’t hurt sitting there and we sat for a long time!
The food was amazing. All of us enjoyed the food so much. We haven’t had real Turkish food since we went to Turkey. They started us off with freshly made bread which was so good! They have an oven right up front and make their own bread. It’s served with a trio of hummus, baba ganoush and muhamara. We had ordered hummus and baba ganoush for the table as well. We didn’t realize that when you order entrees, you get bread and the trio.
Their fresh made pides are like a party in your mouth. We got the vegetable Pide and I just don’t have words for how flavourful it was. My mouth is watering thinking about it now!
Our entrees were 2 orders of lamb chops, the lamb Beyti rolls and the Kofte. Each entree comes with rice, tomato bulgur, onion salad, bread and roasted tomato/jalapeño. The portions are quite large and although I absolutely enjoyed the food, I just couldn’t finish.
For dessert, we ordered 2 kunafe for the table with tea and coffee. It’s probably the best kunafe I have had in the GTA. It was just sweet enough (not overly sweet). I’m not usually a lover of kunafe, but after trying a small piece, I went in for a second.
Our friends had never had Turkish food, and they said they will definitely go again.
The service was very good. They were attentive but didn’t bug us every few minutes. They let us sit and enjoy the food. They checked to make sure everything was to our liking, and then left us to chat and eat. Whenever we needed anything, we just looked in the direction of our servers, and they quickly came to help. Dishes were cleared quickly in between courses, and they didn’t compel us to leave even though we were sitting and eating for a very long time. The servers there are very hard working, but also friendly.
From a price point, they are a little more expensive than some places. But with the quality of food they offer, I feel it’s well worth it. You are paying for freshly baked breads, fresh ingredients and meats, etc. It’s incomparable to the cookie cutter, frozen menu from some other places.
We ordered more than we could eat so we packed up left overs for our friends to take home.
We will definitely come back and recommend to...
Read morea taste of Turkey in the Heart of Toronto – An Unforgettable Experience at Saray Turkish Restaurant
If you’re looking for an authentic Turkish dining experience in Toronto, look no further than Saray Turkish Restaurant. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with warm hospitality, a beautifully designed interior reminiscent of Turkey’s rich cultural heritage, and the irresistible aroma of freshly grilled meats and baked bread.
The menu offers a fantastic variety of traditional Turkish dishes, each prepared with the freshest ingredients and bursting with flavor. We started with the mezze platter, which was a delightful selection of hummus, baba ganoush, ezme, and stuffed grape leaves—each bite was a perfect balance of spices and textures. The lavas bread, freshly baked and served warm, was the ideal accompaniment.
For the main course, we tried the mixed grill platter, which was simply outstanding. The lamb shish, chicken adana, and doner kebab were cooked to perfection—juicy, flavorful, and beautifully seasoned. Every bite transported us straight to the streets of Istanbul! The Iskender kebab was another standout dish, with tender slices of doner served over soft pita bread and drizzled with rich tomato sauce and creamy yogurt.
To end our meal on a sweet note, we indulged in the baklava and kunefe. The baklava was perfectly crisp and drenched in just the right amount of syrup, while the kunefe, with its gooey cheese filling and crunchy kataifi crust, was simply divine. Paired with a strong cup of Turkish coffee, it was the perfect way to conclude an unforgettable meal.
Beyond the food, the service at Saray Turkish Restaurant was impeccable. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, making sure every guest felt welcomed and well taken care of. The ambiance was warm and inviting, making it an excellent spot for both intimate dinners and group gatherings.
Overall, Saray Turkish Restaurant is a hidden gem in Toronto that delivers an authentic taste of Turkey with exceptional service. Whether you’re a fan of Turkish cuisine or trying it for the first time, this place is a must-visit. I can’t wait to return and explore more of their incredible menu!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly...
Read moreSaray is a charming Turkish restaurant with a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel welcome the moment you step inside. It’s not a very large place, so if you’re planning to visit with a group, a reservation is highly recommended. They have some booth-like tables that are perfect for a more private and comfortable dining experience, but you’ll only get one of these if you book in advance. Otherwise, you can just walk in and grab a regular table, which is typically set up for two or four people.
The food is where Saray truly shines. Their Turkish kebabs are excellent—well-seasoned, juicy, and cooked to perfection. The salads are fresh and flavorful, making them a great complement to the heavier dishes. If you’re dining with kids, you’ll be happy to know they offer a high-quality burger that stands out from typical kids’ menu items. While their dessert selection isn’t huge, what they do have is delicious and worth trying.
Beyond the food, the ambiance is something special. The restaurant’s interior blends Turkish and Persian influences, creating a warm and inviting space. The ceiling design, in particular, adds to the unique charm, making the whole experience feel authentic and stylish at the same time. Interestingly, all the staff seem to speak Persian, which makes me think the owner might be Persian as well.
Overall, Saray is a great spot if you’re looking for quality Turkish food in a beautifully designed space. Whether you’re going for a casual meal or a gathering with friends, the atmosphere and flavors make it worth the visit. Just make sure to reserve in advance if you want the...
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