Top rated turkish restaurants in Edinburgh
# Top Rated Turkish Restaurants in Edinburgh
**TL;DR:** Edinburgh offers excellent Turkish dining options, from cosy family-run kebab houses to upscale meze restaurants. Popular spots include Kismett on Forrest Road and various venues serving authentic Anatolian cuisine. Most offer menus under £15 for mains, with warm hospitality and traditional flavours that keep locals coming back regularly.
## Introduction
Looking for authentic Turkish food in Edinburgh? You’re in for a treat. The Scottish capital has developed a thriving Turkish restaurant scene over recent years. Whether you’re craving sizzling kebabs, creamy hummus, or delicate baklava, Edinburgh’s Turkish establishments deliver genuine flavours and excellent value.
Turkish cuisine blends Mediterranean freshness with Middle Eastern spices. It’s comfort food at its finest. Many Edinburgh venues combine traditional recipes with modern presentation. Family-run restaurants often feature recipes passed down through generations. The hospitality is warm, portions are generous, and prices won’t break the bank.
This guide highlights Edinburgh’s best Turkish restaurants. We’ll help you find your new favourite spot.
## What Makes Edinburgh’s Turkish Restaurants Special?
Edinburgh’s Turkish restaurants stand out for authentic preparation and quality ingredients. Many owners source spices directly from Turkey. They respect traditional cooking methods whilst embracing modern hygiene standards.
The city’s Turkish community has grown steadily. This means restaurants compete on quality and authenticity. You’ll find menus featuring regional Turkish specialities, not just kebabs. Many offer wine pairings and Turkish coffee ceremonies. Staff genuinely know their food and love sharing recommendations with customers.
## Where Should You Go for Traditional Meze?
**What’s the best place for traditional Turkish meze in Edinburgh?**
Kismett on Forrest Road serves exceptional meze platters. Their hummus, baba ganoush, and dolmas are authentic. Mains cost around £12-16 per person.
Meze are small sharing dishes. They’re perfect for trying multiple flavours. Turkish restaurants prepare them fresh daily using seasonal vegetables. You’ll typically find ten to fifteen options available. Cold meze include dips and marinated vegetables. Hot meze feature fried halloumi and savoury pastries. Most Edinburgh venues offer meze for £3-5 per item, encouraging exploration.
## Which Restaurants Offer the Best Kebabs?
**Are Edinburgh’s kebab shops worth visiting for quality meals?**
Absolutely. Kebabs represent Turkish cuisine’s most popular export. Edinburgh’s top venues prepare them properly, not lazily. Lamb doner, chicken shish, and mixed grills showcase grilling expertise. Expect to pay £9-13 for generous portions.
Quality kebab restaurants marinate meats overnight. Vertical rotisseries cook meat slowly, ensuring moisture and flavour. Portions come wrapped in warm pita bread or served on plates. Salad sides include tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs. Sauces vary from yoghurt-based to spiced tomato versions. Many restaurants offer takeaway service, making quality kebabs convenient for busy evenings.
## What Vegetarian and Vegan Options Exist?
Turkish cuisine excels at vegetable dishes. Aubergine features heavily in traditional cookery. Chickpea-based mezzes satisfy plant-based diners completely.
Edinburgh’s Turkish restaurants typically offer substantial vegetarian menus. Falafel, falseRice-filled vine leaves, and lentil soups are standards. Many dishes use olive oil instead of meat stock. Vegan options exist but aren’t always marked clearly. Ask staff about preparation methods. Most venues happily modify dishes for dietary requirements. Vegetarian mains cost £8-11, offering excellent value compared to meat options.
## How Do Prices Compare to Other Cuisines?
Turkish dining in Edinburgh represents outstanding value. Three-course meals rarely exceed £25 per person. Mains hover between £10-15. Starters and sides cost £3-6. Family groups can feast for reasonable prices.
Compare this to Italian or French restaurants charging £15-20 for single mains. Turkish establishments offer generous portions, multiple courses, and warm service. Lunch menus sometimes offer further discounts. Set menus for groups provide additional savings. Many venues encourage sharing, reducing overall costs. BYOB policies at some restaurants cut drink expenses further. Turkish hospitality means excellent value runs deep in Edinburgh’s Turkish restaurant culture.
## Conclusion
Edinburgh’s Turkish restaurants deliver authentic flavours, generous portions, and warm hospitality. Whether you want casual kebabs or elegant meze evenings, options exist for every preference and budget. These venues prove Turkish cuisine deserves recognition beyond high streets. Quality ingredients, traditional methods, and passionate owners create memorable dining experiences.
**Find a Turkish restaurant near you by searching our free UK directory.** Browse menus, check reviews, and book your next meal today.
## FAQ
**Q: What’s the difference between doner and shish kebab?**
A: Doner uses vertically stacked, slow-roasted meat. Shish uses cubed meat grilled on skewers. Shish typically tastes more charred and tender.
**Q: Are Turkish restaurants halal?**
A: Many Edinburgh Turkish restaurants serve halal meat. Always check their website or call beforehand to confirm their certification status.
**Q: What should I drink with Turkish food?**
A: Turkish tea pairs beautifully with meals. Turkish coffee suits dessert. Many restaurants offer Turkish lager beers and wine options too.
**Q: Do Turkish restaurants accommodate allergies?**
A: Yes, most take allergies seriously. Inform staff immediately about nut, sesame, or gluten requirements before ordering.
**Q: Is Turkish food spicy?**
A: Turkish cuisine uses spices for flavour, not heat. Most dishes aren’t particularly spicy. Chilli features occasionally but sparingly in traditional recipes.