Went there for dinner on a Monday evening with my wife and another couple.
Once we walked in, we were warmly greated by one of the chefs and then we went to the table where our friend was waiting for us.
The menus were already on the table, so we started thinking what we were going to have so by the time the last member of our group arrived, we could place the orders.
We started with a cold mix meze platter and 2 ayrans to drink. The flatbread that came with the platter was very nice and full of flavour as it had been warmed up on the grill where the meats were being done. On the platter there was a combination of yoghurt with spinach and herbs, hummus, olives, tabuleh and a few slices of cucumbers and tomatoes.
After thoroughly enjoying that, it was the time for the main event: the Dem Jumbo meal platter. As we were 4 people, we originally asked if this would be enough and our host was quick to reassure us that it will be. We were definitely impressed with the size of the platter. It had chicken breast, wings and lamb on top, flatbread in the middle and rice and bulgur wheat as the base. Everything was incredibly flavoured and we actually had to take some of the food as takeaway as it was too much.
At the end, we ordered some Turkish tea and baclava. The tea was nice and hot, so it helped with the digestion, whereas the baclava's sweetness was welcomed after all the meat intake.
The service was very good and the host was kind enough to take off the baclava from the bill, a small gesture which we appreciated.
The atmosphere in the restaurant was nice and quiet up until 2 large groups came in. They were having a good time, but they could've been a bit more mindful about the other customers. This does not take anything from the great service we received.
Overall a very nice experience, incredible food and we would love to...
Read moreIf I could give the restaurant 0 stars I would. I have been visiting Dem for several years, and never have I received such bad customer service in my life, I have recommended their name on to numerous friends and also co workers counting off my hand at least 20. Ordered my usual but to take away and the person on the grill spoke so aggressively to me after trying to charge me twice when i ordered one meal to go, he then proceeded to raise his voice and talk only in turkish to everyone but me, also charging me an extra £1 once he corrected the order. I left heading home thinking at least I got what I asked for, only to realise that he also had messed up my order once again serving me lamb instead of chicken, which I don't eat. Had the staff spent more time understanding the definition of 1 portion and not arguing with me in english then turkish he might have picked up the 2 errors he made whilst grilling my order. I've always been happy to give my money to this place as the food was good, but at the cost of aggressive and rude staff ganging up on one person, I will no longer visit. stay clear of this place and read more of the reviews listing the same recurring problems that they've failed to change in the 26+ years since being open. There are plenty of other good places to eat in...
Read moreIf you’re looking for an exceptional dining experience, look no further than Dem Restaurant in Crystal Palace! From the moment you step inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable meal.
Service: The staff at Dem Restaurant are incredibly attentive and friendly. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations without being overbearing. It’s clear that they genuinely care about providing excellent service.
Food: Now, onto the star of the show—the food! Each dish was a masterpiece, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The menu features a variety of options that cater to different tastes. We started with the delicious borek, always a winner! The complimentary bread and salad were fresh and deliciously tasty! For the main course, the grilled salmon was flawlessly executed, with a delightful herb crust that complemented the fish beautifully. The chicken atter was bursting with flavour!!!
Overall: Dem Restaurant is a hidden gem in Crystal Palace that deserves all the accolades it receives. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to stop by for a delightful culinary experience. I can’t wait to return and try more from their enticing menu! Highly...
Read more