Turkish restaurants in the City of London are a firm favourite of ours. From lavash to lamb koftas, we just can’t get enough.
Popularised as a dinner time option in the ’80s after Turkish migrants travelled from the Republic of Turkey to the UK, the cuisine has not been off the menu since.
Whether it’s tucking into a late-night kebab or dining out at five-star restaurants, Brits simply can’t get enough of the Mediterranean fare.
Apart from kebabs, one of the world’s most-loved Turkish dishes is baklava. Dating back to the Ottoman Empire, the iconic dessert is a delicious sweet treat to nibble on after a large meal. Drizzled in syrup the layered pastry dish is covered in ground pistachios and is a must if eating at a Turkish restaurant or simply grabbing a coffee and a breakfast bite.
So, if that’s got you desiring Turkish this week, check out these tasty Turkish restaurants in the City of London.
Haz
The family-run restaurant is built on the experience and passion of its founders. With four sites in the City, the trio pride themselves on serving authentic Turkish food using fresh, local ingredients, while channelling their ancestors’ techniques and recipes.
As is true of families in Turkey, the restaurant encourages you to order a selection of options for the table. Choose from a wide selection of grilled meats, meze and salads to share with loved ones, or simply to enjoy alone. Complement your meal with a
glass of traditional Turkish wine or a unique cocktail with contrasting flavours.
Haz St Paul’s EC2V 6HD
hazrestaurant.co.uk
The Iskele
A favourite amongst City residents and visitors alike, The Iskele is perfect for a mid-week lunch or a pre-show bite before heading to the Barbican Centre.
If you’re looking for somewhere to take the family at the weekend, or a birthday celebration, book ahead at the contemporary restaurant as it’s very popular. You may, however, be able to drop by and find a seat for a delicious cocktail if you’re lucky.
For a sweet treat, try the Kunefe, a slight twist on the traditional baklava that is filled with white cheese and drizzled with honey. Delicious!
The Iskele EC1Y 8QP
theiskele.com
Baraka
Addressing a geographical area, rather than a particular people, the restaurant offers Anatolian cuisine. Constituting a major part of modern-day Turkey, Anatolia was visited by many civilisations, including Sumerians and the Ottoman Empire, each taking or gifting recipes and techniques. Continuing this tradition, Baraka offers London recipes from Antolia.
Baraka also aims to be environmentally responsible, only using ethically-sourced ingredients and limiting its environmental impact.
The restaurant has a plethora of menus, including a bar menu, a group menu, an a la carte menu – even a separate dessert menu to peruse. Try the house moussaka, or go all out with the swordfish steak.
Baraka EC2M 2PF
barakarestaurant.co.uk
Kilikya’s Lounge
Last but not least, Kilikya’s Lounge is an award-winning gastro. And, with picturesque views to boot, it’s the perfect place to take a date. Enjoy an after work cocktail and tuck into a delicious meze of meats and dips in a modern setting while looking over the glistening waters of St Katharine Docks.
The extensive upmarket Turkish menu has something for all tastes, but we urge you to order from the grill menu when enjoying a glass of wine overlooking the docks. The Grill for Two, which includes chicken shish, lamb shish and Adana kebab, is a great way to dine in a relaxed way. One of the tastiest Turkish restaurants in the City of London. You can thank us later.
Kilikya’s Lounge E1W 1AT
kilikyasgastro.co.uk
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