Sofra Turkish Grill — Restaurant in Waterbury

⭐️ Sofra Turkish Grill - A 7/10 Meal Wrapped in a 3/10 Experience

Traveled 80 Miles from NYC to CT

I discovered Sofra Turkish Grill through a viral TikTok video that showed fire-lit platters, misty dry ice, and sauces that looked like something out of a fine-dining Turkish dream. That video sold me instantly—so I decided to make the trip from Manhattan to Connecticut, nearly 80 miles, expecting a full-blown culinary experience.

Let me be clear: the food tasted delicious. We ordered the combo platter of lamb, chicken, and beef. The meats were seasoned well, the rice was buttery and flavorful, and the bread had a nice chew. The babaganoush had a good smoky finish. And at the very end, the Turkish tea—with honey—was a beautiful touch. But that’s where the highlights stop.

🚫 Presentation? Disappointing.

We were literally the first table seated and the second to be served—so why did our food show up lukewarm and looking like it had been dumped on the plate? Where was the fire? Where was the smoke? Where was the plating that I saw on TiffanysGoodEats profile on FB?

Instead of a vibrant presentation with sauce drizzles and aroma in the air, the meat was brought out dry, and we were only given one dipping option—and that wasn’t even the red chutney-style sauce that lured us there in the first place.

We showed the waitress the video, and she shrugged, telling us the chef “doesn’t make that anymore.” Instead, she brought us a bottle of Tabasco. Let me say that again: Tabasco… with Turkish food.

If you’re going to give me an American hot sauce for a Turkish meal, you may as well hand me a bottle of Stubbs BBQ and call it a backyard cookout.

⚠️ Details Matter

No butter for our bread (other tables got it). No heat coming off the plate. No explanation about menu changes despite using the social media post as bait. Baklava? Cold. We skipped dessert entirely.

The lack of care in plating and service robbed the food of its potential. And for someone who has posted food reviews with over 40 million views, I did something I’ve never done before—I didn’t even take a picture. That says everything.

🧾 Final Thoughts:

✔️ Taste: Solid 7/10 ✔️ Presentation: 3/10 ✔️ Expectation vs. Reality: Completely mismatched ✔️ Would I return? Only for takeout. I wouldn’t dine in again. ✔️ Would I recommend? Only if you live nearby—and don’t care about experience, plating, or service.

🧠 Closing Words:

If you’re going to advertise elegance and smoke and flames online, then deliver it at the table—don’t just use it for clicks. Turkish cuisine is one of the most beautiful food cultures in the world, and it deserves to be presented with pride.

For now, I’m on the hunt for another Turkish grill that can deliver the taste, temperature, plating, and passion—because that’s what I came for. The pics I’ve posted is what I saw on the FB post but never experienced...

If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Sofra is the Turkish restaurant that truly sets the standard for excellence. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted with warm hospitality that mirrors the heart of Turkish culture.

The ambiance is a perfect blend of modern elegance and traditional charm, creating a cozy yet sophisticated setting that transports you straight to the heart of Turkey. Every detail, from the vibrant décor to the music, contributes to an authentic and inviting atmosphere.

Now, let’s talk about the food—absolutely divine! The menu is a rich tapestry of Turkish flavors, offering a perfect balance between time-honored recipes and innovative culinary twists. The freshly baked pide and pillowy ballon bread served with tangy dips are an absolute must-try. The mixed grill platter, featuring kebabs, tender lamb chops, and perfectly spiced chicken, is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Vegetarians, too, will be delighted by the array of flavorful options like the creamy hummus and falafel !!!

Save room for dessert because the baklava at Sofra is nothing short of perfection. Sofra Katmer —it’s a heavenly way to end your meal. Pair it with a traditional Turkish tea or coffee for the ultimate treat.

What truly sets Sofra apart is the impeccable service. The staff are attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to make recommendations, ensuring every guest feels like a VIP.

Sofra is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary journey. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekday dinner, Sofra delivers a memorable experience every time. Highly recommend to anyone seeking the best...

The food was fine. The place is small and intimate and a stark difference from the outside mini strip mall appearance. We made reservations so we had no problem getting in as the place only seats 45 or so customers. It took some time for one of the 4 staff to wait on us and that's how the rest of the night went. We (wife and I) hear food recommendations being given to tables next to us, but for us it was what do you want. I asked how big are the servings, because I don't eat a lot and it was late. She assumed we wanted to share a plate and let us know we couldn't do that. So I asked again and she pointed to the ladies seated next to us. We order and the night went fine. We got there it was full but as we ate the place emptied and turned over a little slower. We asked for more water, didn't get any. We had a large appetizer that required bread. We asked 3 times and didn't get any. We were pretty ignored for the night but noticed everyone on our side was checked on constantly. When we were ready to order dessert and coffee, they brought out To-go containers and only two, not enough for all of our food. They didn't clear off the table of the crowd of dishes so I stacked them all and there they sat, with out to go food until coffee came out 20min later. dessert came out 15 minutes after that. Asked for bread to go so we can eat the app, still no. We asked for the check. That came and was picked up immediately. I don't want to blame it on not being of eastern European or South Asian decent but that seemed to be the difference. Won't be returning or recommending as it wasnt worth the hour drive. This is a place by then for them...