Cafe Istanbul
5986 Spring Garden Rd.
Halifax
405-4028
Rating: ****
Dinner & drinks for two: $50
A huge stunning mural and colourful Turkish pottery set the scene for an authentic Turkish lunch. The place is hopping, as are the servers, who welcome us warmly.
We are brought water — an entire pitcher — as we order two appetizers. Cheese Borek ($5.55) consists of deep fried phyllo dough triangles with feta cheese. They are surprisingly light.
Shrimp Guvech ($5.55) has three perfectly cooked delicious shrimp. We sop up the rich tomato sauce with slices of freshly made warm pita bread. The accompanying salad is refreshing.
Our knowledgeable server informs us the lamb is local. Bravo. Lamb Tenderloin ($15.75) is a generous serving of tasty — and tender — meat served with rice and salad with chili sauce and cacik (yogurt, garlic and cucumber spread).
Yogurt Kebab ($14.75) has both lamb and grilled chicken in a flavourful yogurt tomato sauce, also accompanied by rice and salad.
Only our Turkish coffee ($2) disappoints as it lacks the expected intensity.
Since it’s my companion’s birthday, the servers serenade her over a scrumptious Chocolate Bomb. Not Turkish, but a warm and sweet finish.
