Turkish Restaurants in Somerset – complete guide
**TL;DR: Turkish restaurants in Somerset offer authentic cuisine ranging from traditional kebabs to mezze platters. Popular spots include establishments in Taunton, Yeovil, and Bath, with most mains costing £8-16. Many offer dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services. Book ahead during weekends for the best experience.**
## Introduction
Looking for authentic Turkish food in Somerset? You’re in for a treat. Turkish restaurants have become increasingly popular across the county, offering delicious flavours that go way beyond basic kebabs. These establishments showcase the rich culinary traditions of Turkey, from slow-cooked stews to fresh grilled meats and colourful vegetable dishes.
Whether you’re after a casual lunch or a special dinner out, Somerset’s Turkish restaurants deliver genuine hospitality and quality ingredients. The beauty of Turkish cuisine lies in its balance of flavours, generous portions, and affordable prices. You’ll find welcoming staff who genuinely care about your experience.
## What Should You Order at a Turkish Restaurant?
**Turkish restaurants offer diverse dishes beyond kebabs, including mezze platters, grilled fish, slow-cooked stews, and fresh breads. Most restaurants display their specialities in the window or on their menus. Popular mains cost between £9-15. Ask staff for recommendations based on your taste preferences.**
Turkish menus typically include hot and cold mezze to start. Hummus, baba ganoush, and dolmas are crowd pleasers. Main courses feature lamb, chicken, beef, and seafood prepared various ways. Şiş kebabs are grilled meat on skewers. Adana kebabs use minced meat with spices.
Don’t skip the breads. Turkish pide is boat-shaped and filled with cheese or meat. Döner kebab is thinly sliced meat cooked on a vertical spit. Lamb shanks slow-cooked until tender are absolutely worth trying. Many restaurants offer mixed grills showcasing their best offerings.
## Where Are the Best Turkish Restaurants Located in Somerset?
**Major towns like Taunton, Yeovil, Bath, and Weston-super-Mare host several Turkish establishments. Taunton has the highest concentration of authentic Turkish restaurants. Check online reviews and ratings before visiting. Most locations are accessible and offer ample parking.**
Taunton’s town centre features multiple options within walking distance. Yeovil attracts residents seeking quality Turkish dining with competitive prices. Bath combines Turkish restaurants with its Georgian charm and tourist facilities. Smaller towns occasionally host Turkish takeaways or restaurants run by passionate proprietors.
Location matters for convenience, but it shouldn’t be your only consideration. A restaurant in a quieter village might offer more authentic experiences than busy town-centre chains. Check postcodes when searching online to find establishments near you.
## What’s the Average Cost of Eating Turkish in Somerset?
**Most Turkish restaurants in Somerset charge £9-15 for mains, £3-5 for mezze starters, and £2-4 for soft drinks. Family groups can eat well for under £50. Many offer lunchtime deals and special evening promotions. Takeaway meals typically cost slightly less than dine-in.**
Pricing varies based on location and establishment type. High street restaurants may charge more than neighbourhood spots. Premium cuts like lamb cost slightly more than chicken. Vegetarian options are usually cheaper.
Look for early-bird menus. Many restaurants offer discounts before 7 PM. Birthday specials and group discounts sometimes apply. Takeaway orders often qualify for special pricing. Consider ordering mezze platters to share. They’re economical and let you sample multiple dishes.
## How Do You Book and What Are Opening Hours?
**Most Turkish restaurants accept phone bookings and increasingly use online booking systems. Call ahead, especially for weekends and groups of six-plus. Standard opening hours run Tuesday-Sunday 5 PM-11 PM, though many open for lunch. Check websites for individual timings.**
Booking ensures table availability and avoids disappointment. Many busy locations fill quickly on Friday and Saturday evenings. Larger groups should book well in advance. Some restaurants hold tables for thirty minutes only if you’re late.
Opening hours vary seasonally. Summer months sometimes bring extended hours. Bank holidays may affect normal schedules. Winter opening times occasionally change. Always phone ahead if you’re travelling from far away. Many restaurants now use WhatsApp for easy communication.
## Conclusion
Somerset’s Turkish restaurant scene offers fantastic value, authentic flavours, and genuine hospitality. Whether you’re in Taunton, Yeovil, or Bath, you’ll find establishments serving quality Turkish cuisine at reasonable prices. From simple kebabs to elaborate mezze feasts, there’s something for everyone’s budget and taste.
Plan your next meal around what Turkish cooking offers. Don’t be afraid to ask staff for recommendations. Most proprietors love sharing their culinary traditions. Book ahead during weekends to secure your preferred time.
**Find a Turkish restaurant near you by searching our free UK directory.** Browse reviews, check menus, and discover your new favourite spot today.
## FAQ
**Q: Are Turkish restaurants in Somerset halal?**
Most Turkish establishments source halal meat. Always confirm with the restaurant directly to ensure your dietary requirements are met.
**Q: Can you order vegetarian mezze at Turkish restaurants?**
Yes, absolutely. Hummus, baba ganoush, dolmas, and grilled vegetables offer excellent vegetarian options. Many restaurants cater well to plant-based diets.
**Q: Do Turkish restaurants offer delivery in Somerset?**
Yes, most town-centre locations offer takeaway and delivery services. Check their websites or call for delivery availability and charges.
**Q: What’s the difference between döner and şiş kebab?**
Döner uses vertically-spit-cooked sliced meat. Şiş uses marinated chunks grilled on skewers. Both are delicious and worth trying.
**Q: Is Turkish coffee served after meals?**
Yes, many restaurants offer Turkish coffee, which is thick, strong, and served in small cups. It’s a traditional conclusion to Turkish meals.