CAFE ISTANBUL — Restaurant in San Juan

Upon arrival, I immediately sensed that the atmosphere was a bit off. The entrance was congested with patrons waiting to be seated, so I stepped aside near an empty table to avoid blocking the walkway. At that moment, a tall, older gentleman—presumably the server—approached and gave me a look that felt more confrontational than welcoming, as if my presence there was an inconvenience. It confirmed my initial impression that the energy in the space was uninviting.

Nevertheless, out of respect for my guest, who was excited to try Mediterranean cuisine, I decided to overlook it. Once seated, we were given menus, but nearly ten minutes passed without anyone acknowledging us or offering beverages. We flagged down a female staff member to inquire when someone might take our order. She informed us that there was only one server (the same gentleman) and that he was assisting tables based on arrival order.

Despite this explanation, we observed guests who arrived after us being served, while we continued to wait without even a glass of water or drink offer. We eventually requested two beers from the same staff member. By the time the server finally approached our table to take our food order, I had already decided not to proceed. I expressed my dissatisfaction and declined to order. My guest and I finished our drinks and promptly left.

Unfortunately, based on this experience, I will not be returning—nor would I recommend this establishment to others.

RESPONSE TO OWNER: Thank you for your reply. Unfortunately, your emotional tone and lack of accountability only reinforce the very concerns I raised in my original review—namely, the dismissive service and lack of respect toward patrons.

Rather than taking a moment to reflect on a possible breakdown in customer service, you’ve chosen to respond with sarcasm and paint me as an entitled or impatient guest. That kind of deflection speaks volumes.

Thankfully, level-headed readers can see through the arrogance and recognize this for what it is: a missed opportunity to learn, grow, and do better.

That said, I truly wish your business continued success. May you, your staff, and your customers be blessed—and may you strive to create an environment where all patrons feel welcomed and valued, regardless of their ethnicity...

We showed up at 10:30 a.m. because there are only 3 parking spots. One of the employees who showed up to work at 10:45 a.m., told me to go because they were closed. I told her I knew it but I was willing to wait until 11:00 a.m. when they advertised was their opening hour. She said that the opening time varies and that I should leave. I insisted on waiting in my car until they open because I was really craving a good gyro. At 11:05 I rang the bell just to be left outside waiting for another 10 minutes until another customer showed up. Finally the same employee who told me to leave, told them that they were not open yet and it would probably be another 15 to 20 minutes. They asked if they could wait inside and she said NO. Needless to say my wife and I left and trust me when I say we will never be back again. We were going to buy 10 gyros of lamb and 10 of chicken for my wife's birthday party, not counting the extras. That was plain rude and unprofessional. Feeling sorry for the other party who stayed and were going to get a bad service because of their...

The absolute best place to get Turkish food on the island. It truly doesn't get any better than here. If you've never gone before to a place like this order the sandwich Meat Döner for your first plate. If you enjoy that dish you'll probably enjoy a lot of the things they have and offer in the store. Music is a bit repetitive once you go more than once (they have the same music videos playing over and over every day it seems) but they are quiet enough that don't bother you one bit. They also have top notch decor on the place and amazing fresh tasting food.

The staff is always immediately ready to go ahead and take care of you and they serve you the food immediately and hot too. They have never skipped a beat when it comes to service and making you feel at home. The chef could smile a bit more however! Which by the way props to him for the great food he consistently dishes out any time I've gone there.

5/5 You owe it to yourself to go at least one time to this place, at least to try it out and the type of...