Top turkish restaurants in Somerset – what to look for
**TL;DR: The best Turkish restaurants in Somerset offer authentic mezze platters, freshly grilled kebabs, and warm hospitality. Look for wood-fired ovens, locally sourced ingredients, and friendly staff who know their menu. Read reviews, check their lunch specials, and visit during quieter times to enjoy the full experience.**
## Introduction
Finding a great Turkish restaurant in Somerset can transform your dining experience. Turkish cuisine blends Mediterranean flavours with Middle Eastern spices. It’s delicious, affordable, and perfect for groups or intimate dinners. Whether you’re in Taunton, Bath, or Wells, Somerset has some excellent Turkish eateries worth exploring. This guide helps you spot quality Turkish restaurants. We’ll cover what makes them special and how to find the best ones near you. You’ll learn what to expect, what to order, and how to judge authenticity.
## What makes an authentic Turkish restaurant stand out?
**A truly authentic Turkish restaurant uses traditional cooking methods and quality ingredients.** Look for wood-fired ovens producing perfectly charred bread. Check if they prepare mezze fresh daily. Authentic places source from Turkish suppliers when possible. The menu shouldn’t be enormous. Real Turkish restaurants focus on doing fewer dishes brilliantly. Staff should speak knowledgeably about dishes and their origins.
The atmosphere matters too. Turkish restaurants typically feel warm and welcoming. Decoration often includes Turkish carpets, copper plates, and family photos. The space should encourage lingering over tea or coffee.
## Should you order kebabs or try mezze first?
**Start with mezze platters to experience variety, then enjoy kebabs as mains.** Mezze are small sharing plates perfect for groups. You’ll find hummus, baba ganoush, stuffed vine leaves, and falafel. These dishes let you taste different flavours without commitment.
Kebabs come next. Doner kebabs use vertical rotisserie meat. Shish kebabs feature marinated chunks grilled on skewers. Adana kebabs are spiced minced meat. Each style offers something different. Don’t skip Turkish meatballs called köfte. They’re flavourful and reasonably priced, typically under £10.
## Are lunch specials worth visiting for?
**Yes, lunch specials offer excellent value and let you try the restaurant when it’s calmer.** Most Somerset Turkish restaurants run lunch deals between noon and 3pm. You’ll find set menus for £7 to £12. These usually include a main, bread, and a soft drink.
Visiting at lunch means fewer crowds. You’ll get attentive service and can chat with staff. The restaurant shows its true character when less rushed. Lunch is ideal for first-time visits to an unfamiliar place.
## How do you spot a Turkish restaurant that cares about quality?
**Quality Turkish restaurants keep their kitchen visible, use fresh ingredients daily, and train staff properly.** Ask about their bread source. Do they bake it fresh in-house? Check if vegetables look crisp and vibrant. Visit during peak hours to see how they handle pressure.
Read recent online reviews carefully. Comments about freshness and flavour matter more than fancy decor. Check Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and local Facebook groups. Look for consistency across reviews. One bad review happens. Multiple complaints about the same issue suggest real problems.
## What drinks and desserts should you explore?
**Turkish tea, ayran, and strong coffee pair beautifully with meals, while baklava and Turkish delight finish nicely.** Turkish tea is black tea brewed strong and served in tulip-shaped glasses. Ayran is a savoury yoghurt drink that’s refreshing and aids digestion. It costs around £2 to £3.
End your meal with baklava, layers of filo pastry with honey and nuts. Turkish delight coated in pistachios offers a lighter finish. Don’t miss Turkish coffee if available. It’s thick, strong, and served in tiny cups. These touches show a restaurant understands Turkish dining culture fully.
## Conclusion
Finding the perfect Turkish restaurant in Somerset doesn’t require much effort. Focus on authenticity, fresh ingredients, and warm service. Try mezze first and sample different kebab styles. Visit during lunch for great value and genuine atmosphere. Check recent reviews from local diners. Quality Turkish restaurants make you feel welcomed like family. The food speaks for itself. Ready to explore? **Find a Turkish restaurant near you by searching our free UK directory.** Your next favourite meal awaits.
## FAQ
**What’s the difference between doner and shish kebab?**
Doner kebab uses meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, sliced thin, and served with bread. Shish kebab features cubed meat marinated and grilled on skewers, served with rice or salad.
**Are Turkish restaurants suitable for vegetarians?**
Absolutely. Most offer excellent vegetarian mezze including hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and stuffed vine leaves. Always ask staff about vegetarian options available.
**What should I expect to spend at a Turkish restaurant in Somerset?**
Expect £12 to £20 per person for a main course. Mezze sharing plates cost £5 to £8 each. Lunch specials offer better value at £7 to £12.
**How far in advance should I book?**
Weekday lunches rarely need booking. Weekend dinners should be reserved a few days ahead. Friday and Saturday evenings fill up quickly, especially in popular towns like Bath.
**What’s Turkish delight and is it worth trying?**
Turkish delight is a gel-like sweet made from starch and sugar, often flavoured with rosewater or fruit. It’s a traditional dessert worth sampling. The quality varies, so try the restaurant’s house version.