Hevsel Kebap Lahmacun — Restaurant in Beyoğlu

We chose the restaurant based on the reviews on the internet. It was a bit smaller and not luxurious as we expected, but that wasn’t important to us. The taste of the food and the price/performance ratio were more important. When we looked at the menu, we noticed that the prices were more reasonable compared to most places in the area. The restaurant was not designed in an ornate way, unlike other places trying to attract tourists, which was a nice detail because such restaurants are usually more expensive, but the food quality may not always be as good. We ordered two adana kebabs, an iskender kebab, and lahmacun (Turkish pizza). With three drinks, we paid a total of 1400 lira. Before the meals, they served spicy ezme (tomato and pepper salad) and delicious lavash for free. This year, I’ve noticed that some kebab places didn’t offer this, but here it was served, and the portion was quite large. The iskender kebab was really delicious, and it definitely deserved its price. The adana kebab was good too, maybe not the best, but still tasty. However, serving bulgur pilaf was a bit disappointing. I don’t think bulgur pilaf goes well with adana kebab. The bulgur was cold, and it overshadowed the taste of the adana. As a suggestion, they could add lavash instead of bulgur, or serve french fries. If they are going to serve bulgur, at least it should be hot. The lahmacun was also quite tasty and worth the price. However, there was no heating in the restaurant. We couldn’t sit downstairs because it was cold, and upstairs was the same. Also, there was no staff working upstairs, or they came very rarely. Maybe this was because we were the only customers upstairs. Because of this, I had to go downstairs to meet my needs. Overall, we were satisfied with the food, and I would recommend it in terms of price/performance. But don’t expect too much atmosphere or perfect service. That’s why I gave it 3 stars (reduced 1 star for the service, and 1 star for...

Visited in July 2025. Turkey 🇹🇷 Istanbul.

Hevsel Kebap Lahmacun is a tucked-away retreat just off the lively chaos of Istiklal Street, its subtle presence a quiet advantage that often ensures a free table even during peak hours.

FOOD:

The menu delivers a solid showcase of Turkish staples, with the lahmacun standing out as a highlight. Its crisp flatbread, fragrant with well-balanced spices and paired with fresh, crunchy vegetables, kept us coming back a few times without disappointment. The chicken shish kebab was tender and carried a pleasant grilled smokiness, though it didn’t quite steal the show. The spicy beef lula kebab was juicy with a bold kick, but its richness could feel a touch heavy for some. The lamb chops were nicely prepared, flavorful and tender, though not particularly memorable compared to other offerings.

SERVICE:

The staff is friendly and efficient, managing orders with ease even when the place fills up. The only drawback is their occasional tardiness in opening at 10 AM, which might inconvenience those arriving early.

VERDICT:

Hevsel Kebap Lahmacun is a reliable stop for authentic Turkish fare at prices more reasonable than many of Istiklal’s busier spots. Its hidden-away charm adds to the appeal, making it a great option for those seeking quality without the tourist-trap premium. While the food doesn’t always reach extraordinary heights, it’s a solid choice for a satisfying meal in the heart...

Taksim Bahçıvan 2 is a hidden gem that delivers an exceptional Turkish dining experience. From the moment you step in, the warm and welcoming staff make you feel right at home, creating an inviting atmosphere that sets the tone for a memorable meal.

The mixed grill is a testament to their mastery of meat preparation, with each piece cooked to perfection. The real standout, though, is their cheese pita – freshly made and absolutely delightful, with a perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior that keeps you coming back for more.

But it's their kunafe that truly steals the show. This traditional Middle Eastern dessert is executed brilliantly here – not overly sweet like many versions elsewhere, and served in a generous portion that's perfect for sharing (though you might not want to!). The balanced sweetness allows the subtle cheese flavor and crispy texture to shine through.

What makes this place special is their commitment to freshly prepared dishes and consistent quality. Whether you're craving traditional Turkish grills or looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, Taksim Bahçıvan 2 delivers on all fronts, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic...