John B.
Yelp
Alaturka. In the Turkish language, basically means 'In the Turkish style'.
I'd say that's the perfect name for this cozy little gem.
We decided to take a nice Sunday drive. Make a day of it. Visiting places we love. Finding new things to try. Alaturka was a new place for us.
Our first impression?
Nice vibe. Very clean and bright. To complete the mood, the air was filled with the aromas of Turkey and the sounds of modern upbeat Turkish music.
We were greeted by Akay, a son in the owner family.
We immediately felt this would be a great food and service experience.
Interestingly, our first few sips of the iced tea we ordered also told us we were in for a treat! How about that? Their tea is absolutely delicious, and thirst quenching. I highly recommend it.
I was accompanied by my Favorite Fab One, which adds to the visual ambiance. LOL
We decided to share a plate of Hummus, along with a Shepherd Salad. The Hummus was true to form good. The Salad was perfect. Fresh-picked veggie tastes with a splash of lemon and olive oil, and a side of Feta.
A wonderful and tasty salad.
I was flipping between two menu choices with lamb, so I asked Akay which he'd recommend? Without hesitation he said to get the Lamb Shish Kebab Pita Wrap. I did. And I loved it.
The lamb was big chunks, not sliced. With lots of lettuce, tomato, cucumber and onion wrapped up in a pita. Dipping and dripping tzatziki sauce into, onto and over the wrap added to the excitement. A really great choice.
Fab One got the day's Special, the Lamb Shank, which was only $18!
This delicacy was served with a grilled eggplant slice, potato and a mound of rice.
For that $18, she got an entire on-the-bone lamb shank with plenty of fall off the bone meat. Of course, I had a bite or two. It was juicy and delectable. I did feel it needed just a touch more seasoning, salt in particular. Not much...
And get this! I have NEVER cared for eggplant. I've tried. But nope.
Well.....I ate most of her eggplant! It was that good!
To close out our journey, I walked into the Alaturka Bakery area and virtually drooled as I perused the selections of goodies. I chose the Tiramisu.
OH MY GOSH! BEST Tiramisu Fab One and I have EVER enjoyed!
As we were raving about it, Akay and his brother, Anil, informed us they grew up on this delightful dessert. Their mother has lovingly made it for years.
For family and friends.
And now, for Alaturka guests.
We asked them to give our love to their mother. And their father.
And everyone!
Throughout our entire meal, we were never left wanting for anything!
Service was a 10++++!
Akay, Anil and a nice young lady made sure we were very well taken care of and happy. Before we left, we almost felt like family.
I even did my best interpretation of a Turkish Thank You, Teşekkürler.
Alaturka made an extremely good impression on both of us.
From that exotically enticing iced tea, all of the fresh ingredients, luscious lamb, pleasing pita and then a terrific Tiramisu!
In Turkish, I believe the saying is 'Karnimda iyiydi'.
Which translates essentially to 'It was good in my belly'.
I second that! And so will Fab One.
Tell them Beth and John sent ya! Please!