carmen c.
Yelp
Anatolian Table in San Francisco - An Authentic Turkish Culinary Experience That Transports You Straight to Istanbul
As someone who has traveled extensively through Turkey--from the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the coastal towns of Antalya--I've been searching for a Turkish restaurant in the Bay Area that captures the heart and soul of Anatolian cuisine. Anatolian Table in San Francisco is that place. Every visit brings me back to the rich, vibrant flavors of Turkey, and it has quickly become one of my favorite spots for an authentic Turkish dining experience.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming, and Kazo, the owner, consistently greets every guest with genuine hospitality that reflects the heart of Turkish culture. While I've dined inside, I highly recommend sitting at the counter near the ovens, where you can watch Eingin and his talented team craft fresh bread with absolute mastery--it's a mesmerizing experience. Ismiel, has an incredible memory for details and ensures that each guest's order is executed flawlessly while making everyone feel at home. When ordering Turkish tea, Fatima presents it beautifully, upholding tradition with every pour. Tugba is always friendly and attentive, rounding out a team that truly elevates the entire dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes at Anatolian Table, San Francisco:
COLD MEZES
Tzatziki ($11) - 5/5
Made with lebni, dill, cucumber, and olive oil, this tzatziki is incredibly fresh and creamy. You get two generous scoops, served with homemade bread that's soft and warm. If you prefer a crisper texture like I do, ask for it to be served thinner and toasted.
HOT MEZES
Kibbeh ($14) - 4.5/5
Think of this as the Turkish cousin of a loaded pizza without the sausage. Made with ground beef, bulgur, spices, and topped with yogurt, lemon, and burnt paprika butter, it's bold, rich, and indulgent. Be careful--it's served piping hot.
Anatolian Fries ($9) - 5/5
These fries are always hot, crispy, and perfectly seasoned with za'atar, sumac, and paprika. They pair beautifully with the tzatziki. My friends and I finish these quickly every time.
FROM THE OVEN
Lahmacun ($26) - 5/5
This thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced ground meat, bell pepper, onion, tomato, and parsley is the dish I keep coming back for. I always pair it with Adana skewers and wrap it with the accompanying onions, parsley, and tomatoes. Add a side of tzatziki for a creamy contrast.
MAINS
Adana ($26) - 4.5/5
A blend of minced lamb and beef, grilled to perfection and served with sides like kale, sundried tomatoes, and bulgur pilav. While excellent as a main entree, I prefer wrapping the Adana in a Lahmacun for a flavor-packed bite.
DESSERT
Sutluac ($11) - 5/5
This rice pudding is creamy and delicately sweet, topped with crushed pistachios for texture. It's a perfect balance of richness and lightness and my favorite dessert on the menu.
Baklava ($12) - 4/5
While the flavor is traditional and sweet, I personally prefer a flakier texture on the top layers. This version was more on the chewy side, though still satisfying for a sweet ending.
Final Thoughts:
If you're looking for authentic Turkish food in San Francisco, Anatolian Table is a standout destination for flavor, atmosphere, and exceptional hospitality. Whether you're a first-timer or a regular, you'll feel like part of the family here.
I heard they'll soon be opening for lunch and revamping their wine list, which makes me even more excited to return and see what new delights they'll introduce. This is a restaurant that not only honors tradition but continues to evolve--truly worth the visit.