Family owned and run restaurant with love in every bite. Started with the falafel which was just under pureed and had great texture and wasn't dried out. Filled with a variety of spices and herbs it was a winner with the provided dips (one of which is hummus for that full chickpea journey).
The Chicken Beyti was layered with flavors. Ground seasoned perfectly cooked chicken inside a buttery flaky dough covered with a combination of a lemon yogurt sauce and a tomato sauce. Flavor profile hits every note and tastebud. The rice provided was perfectly cooked and had a great accompanying flavor which was the perfect reset to the pallet.
The Chicken Shish was juicy, flavorful and perfectly cooked. Pretty healthy dish to get if you want to balance flavor and calories.
The lahmajoun was layered with so many flavors from the ground lamb to eggplant and peppers. All cooked to perfection. Had this twice and my only note is the dough was crispier the first time and a bit soggy this time. That may have been from getting the 3x this time (which are three stacked on top of one another). It's possible the moisture caused a bit of sag there. But if I went again I'd ask for them to be on the crispier side dough wise. If they do come out a little soggy, roll them up and they're 👌.
The complementary tea was wonderfully steeped and while we tried the fermented black carrot/turnip juice, it was bottled, it also wasn't our thing before the meal. But during and afterwards its strong sharp funky flavor cut and provided some contrast to the rest of the meal, which may or may not be your thing.
Oh! And our waitress Maya was stellar. If she's around when you're there...
Read moreI've worked and vacationed many times in Turkey (and neighboring Middle Eastern and South Caucasus countries, where much of the cuisine overlaps). Turkey is a wonderful country to experience. If you already have, you can relive meals you enjoyed there at Anatolia Mediterranean Grill. And if not, without making the trip, you can have delicious Turkish food--in Irondequoit, right across from Seabreeze Amusement Park, with Lake Ontario in view. It's a great location, with ample off-street free parking.
The menu is comprehensive, with familiar standards and unusual treats. The restaurant is a good choice if you're a crowd, with ability to please meat lovers, "I don't eat meat" people and seafood fans alike. Choose what you want and it will be good.
Of late, I force myself not to be surprised by prices charged for any goods or service, but at Anatolia Mediterranean Restaurant, the price surprise is only pleasant--Really? All this good food for such a fair price?! Truly, this is good value for money.
And a timely tip: Currently the restaurant does not have a liquor license, so no beer or wine is offered. BUT if you bring your own bottle, the restaurant graciously provides glasses and opener--with no corkage charge! (Making an already reasonably priced meal A SCREAMING BARGAIN!!) But on this point, act quickly because the menu indicates wine and beer is "coming soon."
So, you've been told: Go enjoy Anatolia Mediterranean Grill. These are the people that are making...
Read moreA Feast for the Senses at Anatolia: Delicious Turkish Cuisine Meets Lake Ontario Views
If you're searching for a dining experience that goes beyond just satisfying your taste buds, look no further than Anatolia. Located in the scenic area of Sea Breeze, Irondequoit, this Turkish restaurant is a hidden gem that offers a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Food:
The cuisine at Anatolia is nothing short of exceptional. Each dish is a beautiful blend of spices and flavors that transport you straight to Turkey. The ingredients taste fresh, and the presentation is impeccable, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Atmosphere:
What sets Anatolia apart is its location. Nestled near the banks of Lake Ontario, the restaurant offers stunning lake views that are the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner or a relaxed outing with friends and family. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, adding to the overall dining experience.
Service:
The staff at Anatolia are attentive without being intrusive. They offer helpful suggestions for those unfamiliar with Turkish cuisine and ensure that your dining experience is memorable from start to finish.
Overall:
Anatolia successfully combines delectable Turkish cuisine with awe-inspiring views of Lake Ontario, making it a must-visit for anyone in or around Rochester, NY. The food, atmosphere, and service all come together to create a truly exceptional...
Read more