Divan Turkish cuisine — Restaurant in Florida

My family and I dined at this restaurant for the first time when we were visiting Sarasota. I was in the mood for Mediterranean food and we found this on Google maps. The restaurant had decent reviews so we decided to try it, especially that most other restaurants were closed being that it was Sunday, and it was still rather early for dinner. The restaurant wasn’t hard to find (big sign outside). When we walked in the atmosphere was rather pleasant: there is some Turkish decor. We were greeted right away and placed in a sitting boot. They have boots and regular tables. There is only one dining room with about 10 sitting tables. The menu offers appetizers, soups, salads and entrees. They offer alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. The menu is one page only but the choices include seafood, meat dishes and few options for kids. We didn’t have to wait long for food, but the restaurant had only few guests when we were there. The food was very tasty and fresh. The portions were just right for us. I think it was the first time when we ordered a salad, 3 entrees and 3 desserts for four and we had no left overs. Usually, at other restaurants we have leftovers when we order the same number of dishes. The portions of the meals are smaller. The price range for appetizers is $10-$20. The price range for entrees is $20-$30. The restaurant also has a bar and sitting chairs by the bar. There are two restrooms, one was closed so only one was functioning. The restaurant was very clean which I liked. There was no dust or fingerprints on the decor or walls. The bathroom was also decent ( not great, but it had what is needed). I gave them four stars for service that’s because the tables are rather small and the dishes were not cleared out right away which limited the space on the tables. Overall experience was pleasant and tasty. If we have a chance to be in the vicinity of the restaurant we will definitely dine...

Walked in at 5:45p and sat at the bar as we were told all tables reserved. Service was prompt and friendly in spite of the restaurant quickly filing up. Started with hot Turkish tea and ordered starters of Borrak, falafel and the Anatolian salad to share. All were tasty-however the Borrak was likely fried in oil that was too hot as the inside dough was a bit chewy. The salad was plentiful and dressed PERFECTLY. Falafels were yummy, heavy on the cumin, and as I write this I realize we were not given the garlic tahini per the menu, but we so enjoyed the tzatziki regardless. When our beautiful dinner platters were presented by the chef, we were very pleased (and sooo excited!). The lamb chops were DELICIOUS and again, perfectly prepared. The vegetable medley of carrots, brussel sprouts, potatoes and onions were the best I've ever tasted in a restaurant. The orzo was not hot, not sure if intentionally served at room temp but it had good flavor nonetheless. The Doner meat was very good, more than we could eat. We were not thrilled with the grilled pita - not much taste and not soft enough in the center but it was such a minor accompaniment to the dinners. My partner and I both have long histories in the restaurant/hospitality industry and are not easily impressed. We LOVED OUR FOOD and highly recommend this restaurant. Dessert was taken togo - the chocolate baklava wins with me hands down over the pistachio honestly I'd would have eaten all 4 if my partner hadn't been towering over...

Judging by a number of positive reviews, we are confused,(divine experience??) because neither one of us cared for the food we ordered Or the Replacement dish I love ethnic food, and I loved the meals when I was in turkey, (and also at 1592 Main St.middle Eastern, and Greek.) We ordered dumplings, I wish I had pictures, but it was all DOUGH with TEENTSY crumbs of seasoned beef inside.(NOT exaggerating.) felafel was ok but dry And desperately needed the little bed of hummus it was on. pita was good The dumplings were so disappointing, that DeeDee the server, (who was great by the way) took it away and brought us meat Doner It looked great but was sliced, too thin and dried out. I’ve had this dozens of times in New York and this was not right. We had 2fried appetizers that were better I don’t eat fried food in general but I’m glad that I did because otherwise……

The restaurant is attractive, but sadly we won’t be back. Parking is easy. DD said they have specials...