Top rated turkish restaurants in Exeter
# Top Rated Turkish Restaurants in Exeter
**TL;DR:** Exeter’s Turkish restaurant scene offers brilliant dishes from kebabs to mezze platters. Top spots like Meze Mezze and Ottoman Kitchen deliver authentic flavours at reasonable prices. Most offer dine-in and takeaway options. Book ahead during weekends. Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine or a regular, you’ll find quality food across the city centre and surrounding areas.
## Introduction
Looking for authentic Turkish food in Exeter? You’re in for a treat. Turkish restaurants in Exeter have become increasingly popular over recent years, offering diners fantastic flavours without breaking the bank. From traditional kebabs to sharing plates of mezze, these establishments bring genuine Mediterranean and Middle Eastern tastes to Devon.
Whether you want a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion celebration, Exeter’s Turkish restaurants deliver quality and atmosphere. The cuisine focuses on fresh ingredients, grilled meats, and colourful vegetables. Many restaurants pride themselves on traditional recipes passed down through families. This guide helps you discover the best spots in Exeter worth visiting.
## What Makes Turkish Cuisine Special?
Turkish food combines fresh herbs, chargrilled meats, and vibrant spices. It’s influenced by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian cooking traditions. Dishes are often built around quality ingredients rather than complicated cooking methods.
You’ll find mezze (small sharing plates), kebabs grilled over open flames, and warm breads baked fresh. Most meals come with salads, yoghurt-based sauces, and pickled vegetables. The emphasis is on balance and simplicity. Turkish restaurants celebrate communal eating, making them perfect for groups or families sharing multiple dishes.
## Which Turkish Restaurants Should You Visit in Exeter?
Meze Mezze stands out as one of Exeter’s highest-rated Turkish spots. They serve generous portions of authentic dishes at competitive prices. Ottoman Kitchen offers a slightly more upmarket experience with beautiful presentation. Both restaurants feature traditional wood-fired grills and extensive menus covering classics like lamb shish, chicken döner, and vegetarian options.
Smaller independent places often provide equally impressive food with real personality. Check recent reviews online before booking. Most top-rated restaurants seat around 40 to 80 people, creating intimate atmospheres despite busy service.
## What Should You Order at a Turkish Restaurant?
Unsure what to try first? Start with mezze platters featuring hummus, baba ganoush, and warm pitta bread. They’re perfect for sharing and let you sample different flavours. Then move to main courses like lamb shish kebab, chicken adana, or seafood options.
Vegetarian diners shouldn’t miss the halloumi, stuffed peppers, and aubergine dishes. Turkish restaurants traditionally excel at vegetable-based cooking. End your meal with baklava or Turkish delight with strong Turkish coffee. Most meals cost between £10 and £20 per person for quality main courses.
## How Do You Plan Your Turkish Restaurant Visit?
Book ahead, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings when popular restaurants fill quickly. Many accept online reservations through their websites or phone calls. Arrive early if you prefer quieter service.
Most Turkish restaurants open around 5pm for dinner service. Lunch hours vary but typically run 12pm to 3pm. Check parking availability nearby as some city centre locations have limited spaces. Many restaurants offer takeaway options if you’d prefer eating at home. Delivery services through apps like Deliveroo or Just Eat expand your options too.
## Conclusion
Exeter’s Turkish restaurants offer fantastic value and authentic flavours for everyone. Whether you’re craving a simple kebab or sharing a full mezze feast, you’ll find excellent options across the city. These restaurants bring genuine Mediterranean warmth and hospitality to your dining experience.
Most spots remain family-friendly, welcoming groups and individuals alike. Prices remain reasonable compared to other cuisines, making Turkish dining accessible for regular visits. **Find a Turkish restaurant near you by searching our free UK directory.** Browse reviews, check opening hours, and book your table today. Your next great meal awaits in Exeter.
## FAQ
**What’s the average price for a main course at Turkish restaurants in Exeter?**
Most main courses cost between £12 and £18. Kebabs and grilled meats fall in the middle range. Sharing platters offer better value for groups.
**Do Turkish restaurants in Exeter cater to vegetarians?**
Yes, absolutely. Most menus feature dedicated vegetarian sections with dishes like halloumi, stuffed peppers, and mezze options. Always inform staff about dietary requirements.
**Can you get takeaway from Turkish restaurants in Exeter?**
Most Turkish restaurants offer takeaway services. Call ahead or order through delivery apps like Deliveroo. Food travels well and remains hot during short journeys.
**What time should you book a table on weekends?**
Book between 7pm and 8:30pm for Friday and Saturday evenings. These are peak times. Arriving earlier (around 5:30pm) means shorter waits without reservations.
**What’s the difference between döner and shish kebabs?**
Döner uses stacked meat cooked on a vertical spit. Shish features meat chunks threaded onto flat skewers and grilled horizontally. Both taste brilliant with different textures.