Samantha S.
Yelp
Very similar in design to its sister restaurant in Amsterdam, and identical (if memory serves) in menu. Big, loose, relaxed, and fun, this place sparkles literally and in spirit. It's the kind of restaurant that's equally comfortable for a date, a family dinner, or a big group. Speaking of which: We were sandwiched upstairs between a multigenerational Muslim family and what appeared to be an entire football team. Both seemed happy, and we were too.
We didn't have a reservation and were told at the door that they'd need the table back in 2 hours. That was fine with us, although maybe not the most hospitable greeting. Still, you've been warned: Make a reservation, at least for dinner.
Come hungry. You'll want to order everything on the menu, and portions are large. You'll definitely want to share. The combos (meat, fish, or vegetarian) make ordering easy, especially for a large group. The lamb stew is unusually spiced and totally delicious. There are lots of vegetarian options; the mosamma (veggie casserole) was fantastic, but the more usual suspects (hummus, sigara, falafel, and pide, the fluffy Turkish bread) will leave even the carnivores content.