Sharfan C.
Google
In the ever-shifting culinary landscape of East London, where glass skyscrapers increasingly loom over historic cobblestones, there are few institutions that anchor a neighborhood quite like Efes in Whitechapel. Located at 1 Whitechapel Road, practically a stone’s throw from Aldgate East station, this restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it is a sensory bridge between the bustling commerce of the City and the rich, spice-laden heritage of the Silk Road.
After several visits spanning both quiet weekday lunches and the controlled chaos of a Saturday night, I am awarding Efes a solid 4 stars. It is a masterclass in the "Turkish Grill" genre: reliable, generous, and brimming with an authenticity that many of its more polished, modern competitors lack.
Stepping into Efes is an exercise in immediate decompression. The exterior, situated on a busy corner where the A11 begins its trek eastward, is unassuming. But once you cross the threshold, the roar of London traffic is replaced by the rhythmic clatter of stainless-steel tongs on a charcoal grill and the low hum of diverse conversation.
The décor strikes a balance between traditional Turkish hospitality and the functional needs of a high-volume London eatery. You won’t find the over-the-top, faux-palatial gold leafing that plagues some "luxury" Turkish spots in the West End. Instead, Efes leans into a warm, wood-heavy aesthetic with subtle nods to its namesake—the ancient city of Ephesus. The lighting is amber and inviting, casting a glow over the exposed brickwork and the long, open kitchen where the Ocakbaşı (the traditional hooded charcoal grill) takes center stage.
The Seating and Crowd
One of the most remarkable things about Efes is its demographic. On any given night, you’ll see:
City Professionals: Shedding their blazers and loosening ties over plates of Adana Kebab.
Multigenerational Families: Local families celebrating birthdays, with children expertly navigating piles of fluffy rice.
Tourists: Who have wandered down from the Tower of London or Brick Lane, looking for a "real" London meal.
It is a loud, vibrant space. If you are looking for a hushed, romantic corner to whisper secrets, this might not be it. But if you want a place that feels alive, Efes delivers.
The Culinary Experience: Fire, Smoke, and Salt
At the heart of Efes’ appeal is the fire. Turkish cuisine, at its best, is about the transformation of simple, high-quality ingredients through the medium of intense charcoal heat.
The Overture: Complimentary Hospitality
In an era where many London restaurants charge for tap water and bread, Efes remains a bastion of traditional generosity. Almost as soon as you sit down, a basket of warm, pillowy pide bread arrives, accompanied by a fresh, zingy salad and a selection of dips—usually a cool, garlicky yogurt and a spicy tomato-based ezme. It’s a gesture that says, "You are a guest, not just a customer."
The service at Efes is a well-oiled machine. This is a high-turnover restaurant, and the staff move with a sense of purpose that borders on the athletic. Despite the speed, they never feel dismissive.
On my most recent visit, the restaurant was at 90% capacity, yet our drinks arrived within five minutes, and the appetizers followed shortly after. There is a "no-nonsense" quality to the service that I find refreshing. They aren't there to give you a twenty-minute lecture on the provenance of the chickpeas; they are there to ensure you are fed, hydrated, and happy.
A highlight: The complimentary Turkish tea served at the end of the meal. Poured into tulip-shaped glasses, it’s the perfect palate cleanser—tannic, hot, and traditional.
Efes Whitechapel is a testament to the power of doing the basics brilliantly. It doesn't try to reinvent Turkish cuisine or chase Instagram trends with dry ice and gold flakes. Instead, it relies on the pillars of freshness, fire, and hospitality.
