Best turkish restaurants in Exeter
# Best Turkish Restaurants in Exeter
**TL;DR: Exeter offers several excellent Turkish restaurants serving authentic kebabs, mezze, and grilled meats. Popular spots include casual kebab shops and more formal dining venues. Prices range from £8-20 per main course. Most offer takeaway and eat-in options throughout the city centre and surrounding areas.**
## Introduction
Turkish restaurants in Exeter have become increasingly popular over recent years. If you’re craving authentic flavours and quality grilled meats, you’ve got great options right on your doorstep. Turkish cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, vibrant spices, and generous portions. Whether you’re after a quick kebab or a full three-course meal with friends, Exeter’s Turkish restaurants deliver variety and value. This guide will help you discover the best spots to eat Turkish food across the city. We’ll cover everything from casual takeaways to more formal dining experiences.
## What makes Turkish restaurants special?
Turkish food stands out because of its focus on grilled meats and fresh vegetables. The cuisine combines Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. You’ll find dishes cooked over charcoal or wood fires, which creates brilliant flavour and smoky depth. Many restaurants prepare their own sauces, breads, and marinades fresh daily. The dining experience is warm and welcoming, with staff who understand their food well.
## Where can you find Turkish restaurants in Exeter city centre?
Exeter’s city centre has several Turkish options within walking distance. The main high street and surrounding streets host most of the popular venues. Many restaurants are positioned near shopping areas and transport links. This makes them convenient whether you’re popping in during lunch or planning an evening out. You’ll find a mix of traditional family-run businesses and newer ventures. Most locations offer both takeaway and sit-down dining.
## What should you order at a Turkish restaurant?
Turkish restaurants offer more than just kebabs, though they’re excellent. Try mezze platters with hummus, baba ganoush, and falafel to start. Main courses include shish kebab, doner kebab, and adana kebab cooked on vertical or flat grills. Many places serve grilled fish and chicken options. Pide (Turkish flatbread) and manti (dumplings) are popular too. Don’t skip dessert either. Baklava and Turkish delight are must-tries. Expect to pay £8-15 for most kebab dishes and £12-20 for fuller meals.
## Which Turkish restaurants offer the best value?
Budget-friendly Turkish takeaways are scattered across Exeter. Many kebab shops offer filling meals under £10. You’ll get generous portions with salad, rice, or bread included. Mid-range restaurants charging £12-18 per main offer sit-down comfort and table service. These places often have wine and Turkish drinks available. Premium restaurants charging £20 plus provide fine dining experiences with more elaborate menus. Most offer lunch deals and takeaway discounts. Check individual menus online for current pricing and special offers.
## Are there Turkish restaurants outside the city centre?
Yes, Turkish restaurants exist in Exeter’s suburban areas too. Neighbourhoods like St Thomas and Heavitree have local options. These spots often have better car parking and quieter atmospheres. They serve the same quality food as city centre venues. Many have been established for years and have loyal local customers. Some offer home delivery services within certain postcodes. It’s worth searching our UK directory to find Turkish restaurants near your specific location in Exeter.
## Conclusion
Exeter’s Turkish restaurant scene offers something for everyone. Whether you want a quick lunch, casual dinner, or special occasion meal, you’ll find excellent options. The combination of authentic cooking, fresh ingredients, and friendly service makes Turkish dining special. Prices are reasonable across most venues. You can enjoy quality meals without breaking the bank. Start exploring what’s available near you today. **Find a Turkish restaurant near you by searching our free UK directory.** Simply enter your postcode to discover venues, opening times, and customer reviews.
## FAQ
**What’s the difference between shish and doner kebab?**
Shish kebab uses chunks of marinated meat on skewers, grilled over charcoal. Doner kebab uses seasoned minced meat or thin slices stacked on a vertical spit, cooked by rotation.
**Can I get vegetarian options at Turkish restaurants?**
Yes, absolutely. Mezze platters, falafel, stuffed peppers, and vegetable pide are common vegetarian choices available at most venues.
**Do Turkish restaurants in Exeter accept card payments?**
Most do, but some smaller takeaway shops prefer cash. It’s best to check their website or call ahead to confirm payment methods.
**What’s typical Turkish restaurant opening hours?**
Most open from late morning through to late evening. Takeaways often stay open later than sit-down restaurants, sometimes until midnight or beyond.
**Are Turkish restaurants suitable for groups?**
Definitely. Many have spacious dining areas and can accommodate larger parties. Sharing mezze platters and trying different dishes together is very popular.