Esnaf Lokantası Mahmut Usta

Found this on google as a traditional Turkish restaurant. It’s in the heart of the market in amongst the cafe area. It’s clean, cool and comfy to have a meal in. There is a big counter with all the dishes they have on offer that day. Lots to choose from. I asked for a few dishes so I could try a variety of things. They usually serve the dishes in small plates but mine was served on one plate. They gave you complimentary bread, chili (which aren’t that hot, but I do eat a lot of spice) & water. For my dishes I got a lamb stew special, which was braised in its own juices with herbs, another lamb dish in a tomato based sauce, pearl barley side, a pepper stuffed with rice and a yoghurt dip with fried chilis. They were delicious and tasted very home made & comforting. I also got a cow hooves soup which was so rich and gelatinous. It was definitely my favorite dish that I got. It was quite rich especially as with the soup so the lemon really helped cut through the fat of the meat. A Turkish tea or coffee after is a must to cleanse the palette. It’s a family run business and they speak English well. Very friendly and welcoming. I was surprised at how expensive it was though as it cost me roughly $30 AUD/ €18. Worth a visit if you want some traditional Turkish food, possibly find it cheaper elsewhere.

Amazing tripe, head soup, and seasoned rice. And pretty comfy AC or air conditioning.

Unfortunately, this restaurant is not transparent with their pricing and as other comments have explained, the meal ends up being quite expensive in comparison to other options in the area. The food is good, but sadly you leave with a feeling of being taken advantage of.

Great example for Turkish cuisine. Not the only kebab based dishes but owen on hotpot meals are really well prepared. It is in a tiny Street as nature of the Bazaar but you will love the food.

Remember to double-check your change carefully. My order was 285 Lira; I gave 400 Lira (two 200 Lira notes) and got 15 Lira back. The 100 Lira was missing. I didn't notice the change from the waiter. It left a bad impression.

You only come to a place like this for the food and nothing else. The kuru fasulye was out of this world. The bulgur pilav was awesome. The pasta (I didn't catch the name) was sooo good. I'm certain we'll return time and again.

Best food in Izmir , don’t miss it!

You will find plenty of nice and healthy food in Turkey, if you know the locals or are good at finding them (nearly all of the restaurants at touristic places are selling tasteless food) you already know this restaurant.