Istanbul Grill California - Mediterranean Restaurant & Catering — Restaurant in Fountain Valley

This is a hard review to write.

To begin with, there is nothing wrong with this restaurant. The food is good, but not noteworthy or outstanding. But there is nothing wrong with that. The service is satisfactory. But it is not outstanding or awesome. The decor is good, but that is not what I go to restaurants for.

So this is hard. Others have rated this restaurant much higher that I have. The only thing I can do is explain one factor that I definitely did not like. When you first enter any restaurant, the host or hostess greets you, seats you at a table and offers menus. That is not the routine at this restaurant. When you walk in the door, they hand you a menu. You are then asked to sit in the waiting area by the host stand, look over the menu, place and pay for your order and then and only then are you seated.

I very, very much do not like this. Here's a couple of reasons:

What if the restaurant is crowded, you order food, they charge your card or you otherwise pay for it, and then you have to leave for some unforeseen reason. Do they give you the food to go? Or do they cancel the charge to your card or otherwise give your money back? If the restaurant is crowded and you have to wait for a seat, when do they start preparing your food? As soon as your order is placed, or when you are seated? How does the kitchen know when you are seated? When do you give a tip? Do you add it to the credit card charge when you pay for the food? That would presuppose that you will get good service. What if you don't? You gonna ask for your tip back? What if the food is just not what you ordered or just plain sucks? How you gonna contest that?

I do not like this way of doing business, and for that reason alone I will probably not go back.

If you are comfortable with this, then: ...

Today I received a request from a client to try out this place called Istanbul Grill California Mediterranean Restaurant. Last month I was vising Athens Greece and Istanbul and loved the food there. I have to say I was excited First thing I did was to look at the reviews online and they look very promising. Google reviews 4.6 out of 5 rating is a very good rating and I was excited to make a trip to Fountain Valley California where this establishment is located. I arrived at the location on Sunday at 1pm. The restaurant is located in a plaza on the corner of Talbert and Newhope. You can eat indoors or outdoors. The food prices are on the high side. I ordered the chargrilled lamb chops, it came with 4 chops with rice pilaf and seasoned veggies. Before my meal came out they served me some pita bread with a spread. The lamb came first and I have to say the lamb was bland, the rice and veggies were just ok. For that price you would definitely want the Lamb to be the star of the plate, unfortunately they missed the mark on this dish. The next dish I ordered was the Istanbul Kebab plate which serves 2 people. This plate comes with chicken shish, doner( gyro) chicken adana and adana kebabs served with rice and veggies. Everything on this plate needed more seasoning and the chicken was dry. At this point I have spent enough to make my review. I would have to say, you can spend your hard earned money elsewhere, I hade similar dish's last month in Istanbul and the taste was so much better and the cost for something similar was around 280 lira which around $ 11usd. I know I should not compare the dish to the old country but for that price you should be close to the same taste. I know a hand full of place in southern California that is less expensive and will have you licking your fingers after you eat...

Istanbul Grill in Fountain Valley is a true culinary gem that transports you to the vibrant streets of Istanbul with its authentic flavors and warm ambiance. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with friendly smiles and a delightful aroma that awakens your taste buds.

The menu at Istanbul Grill is a tantalizing journey through Turkish cuisine. Each dish is expertly crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, resulting in a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you're a fan of kebabs, mezes, or savory stews, this place has something for everyone.

One must-try dish is their succulent Adana Kebab, bursting with the perfect blend of spices and juicy goodness. The flavors are bold and well-balanced, and every bite is a true delight.

The attention to detail and presentation at Istanbul Grill is commendable. Each dish is beautifully plated, showcasing the chef's dedication to both taste and aesthetics. The portion sizes are generous, ensuring that you leave satisfied and with a newfound appreciation for Turkish cuisine.

The service at Istanbul Grill is top-notch, with a knowledgeable staff who are happy to guide you through the menu and offer recommendations. The warm and inviting atmosphere creates the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family.

Istanbul Grill in Fountain Valley is a culinary treasure that captures the essence of Turkish cuisine. With its authentic flavors, welcoming ambiance, and impeccable service, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a remarkable dining experience. Prepare to be transported to the heart of Istanbul as you embark on a flavorful journey that will leave you with...