We stopped by on a Sunday afternoon for a few beers and thought the guys serving were genuine. Chatty and personable. Charged accurately for the beers, with no hidden extras. They said they were showing the England V Spain Euros match that evening so we decided to come back. The same welcoming charm on arrival, however, when we ordered food., i said we wanted to share the meat platter between 2 of us, I.e one portion. However, they brought x2 meat platters out. As it was on one plate it wasn’t immediately clear at time of eating that it was 2 portions. However, when the bill came we’d been charged 1150 TL twice. I did query and the guy said it was a misunderstanding. We agreed to pay 1500 TL instead of 2300TL, as we had eaten the food. I always want to believe people are being genuine, but things like this make me lose faith. They added a cover charge/service too - that didn’t happen in the afternoon. We liked the atmosphere for the football and the overall vibe, plus we did get free water, bread and a huge vodka measure, so I can forgive the cover charge, which we’reused to in London anyway. Part of me thinks the large vodka was so I wouldn’t quibble with the bill at the end! Just watch out and clarify everything when you order. In contrast, the following night, we ate at a great rooftop restaurant for less money, better quality food and no...
Read moreWhat appears as just another tourist trap restaurant is in reality quite the opposite.
In the centre of the old city just behind Topkapi Palace.. Santa Sophia and the Blue Mosque this establishment offers some of the most authentic Turkish cuisine available at a reasonable price though unashamedly prides itself on its service.. meal size and most importantly flavours and the freshest daily produce that combine for a dining experience that is not to be missed.
The owner is a gregarious character with a wonderful sense of humour that will engage with each diner to make them feel at ease and make genuine recommendations based on there requirements.
The menu is extensive though for my personal tastes I was only interested on the authentic Turkish food on the list..the choice turned out to be what foreigners would call... Clay Pot.. the mix of meat and chicken... which was succulent.. delicious.. more than satisfying for size and rich as the aroma in the nearby Spice Market.
The beer was cold yet the service warm with genuine smiles and attention to detail that did not go unnoticed by myself.
My choice for authentic Turkish dinner.. don't be shy to give this...
Read moreMerhaba! I visited a few places around Europe and Asia on my last trip abroad including Istanbul. I stayed close to this restaurant and was a little hesitant to go in because I’m not used to waiters being so…vocal for business?? 🤣🤣 But the guys at this place were really fun and nice! They didn’t harass tourists who were lost; they would just help them find their way. As a tourist that really endeared me to the place. The prices listed are what they charge - you pay for a very quiet and mostly calm (for Istanbul) location because it’s on the less busy side of the mosque. I really liked that a lot. And the seafood soup was crazy good. Also the seafood salad was great. They always were there to help me out and it made my trip so fun I’d like to thank everyone at the restaurant for hosting me so many times during my short trip!! I took some pictures while I was there and I hope they don’t mind. Many...
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