Turkish food is having a moment. With a rich history and layered flavors, Turkish cuisine offers something for everyone. And where better to explore a world of culinary delights than Brooklyn, a borough known for its diverse and vibrant food scene?
This article is your guide to the best Turkish restaurants Brooklyn has to offer. We’ll showcase a range of options, from traditional, family-run spots to more modern takes on classic dishes.
Get ready to explore the Mediterranean influences, savor delicious kebabs and mezes, and indulge in sweet baklava. Here’s your roadmap to the best Turkish food in Brooklyn!
The Cornerstones of Turkish Cuisine: What to Expect
When you visit a Turkish restaurant, you’ll find that fresh vegetables, olive oil, and fragrant spices are essential parts of nearly every dish. Many dishes are grilled or roasted, but you’ll also see slow-cooking techniques used to bring out the flavors.
One of the most important aspects of Turkish dining is “meze.” Meze are small plates, similar to Spanish tapas, that are shared among the table. You might see hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and many other delicious options. Sharing meze is a social experience, meant to be enjoyed with friends and family.
As for main courses, keep an eye out for kebabs, which come in many varieties. Pide, a Turkish version of pizza, is another popular choice. If you’re in the mood for something comforting, try manti, which are tiny Turkish dumplings often served with yogurt and a garlicky sauce.
Traditional Turkish dining experiences in Brooklyn
Want the full Turkish experience? Several Brooklyn restaurants offer a dining experience that goes beyond the food, immersing you in Turkish culture.
Authentic ambiance
Many restaurants aim to create a traditional atmosphere through decor. Think Turkish rugs, ornate lanterns casting a warm glow, and the sounds of traditional Turkish music filling the air. Some establishments even feature live Turkish music or belly dancing performances, adding an extra layer of cultural immersion to your meal.
Must-try menu items
If you’re going for the traditional experience, be sure to sample some of the classic dishes. Iskender kebab, with its thinly sliced grilled lamb, yogurt, tomato sauce, and melted butter, is a must-try. Adana kebab, a spicy ground lamb kebab grilled on a wide skewer, is another popular choice. Don’t overlook the importance of freshly baked Turkish bread and vibrant salads, often made with seasonal ingredients.
Neighborhood focus
For a concentration of traditional Turkish restaurants, explore neighborhoods like Bay Ridge and Sheepshead Bay. These areas have historically been home to large Turkish immigrant communities, contributing to the authenticity and cultural richness of the dining scene. In these enclaves, you’re more likely to find family-run establishments serving recipes passed down through generations.
Modern Turkish Cuisine: A Fusion of Flavors
While many Turkish restaurants in Brooklyn focus on traditional dishes passed down through generations, a new wave of eateries is embracing modern Turkish cuisine. These restaurants reinterpret classic recipes, often incorporating innovative techniques and ingredients while drawing inspiration from other culinary traditions.
This fusion approach can result in exciting and unexpected dishes. Think Turkish-spiced burgers, tacos with a hint of Anatolia, or even pasta dishes infused with Turkish flavors. The possibilities are endless, and Brooklyn’s modern Turkish restaurants are constantly pushing the boundaries of what Turkish food can be.
Modern Turkish restaurants are also catering to a wider range of dietary needs. Many now offer vegetarian and vegan options, showcasing the versatility of Turkish ingredients and flavors. From vegetable-stuffed pastries to plant-based kebabs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Beyond the food, the ambiance of these modern Turkish restaurants is also noteworthy. You’ll often find sleek and contemporary decor, a departure from the more traditional settings. Open kitchens allow diners to witness the culinary magic firsthand, while communal tables encourage a sense of community and shared dining experiences.
Don’t forget the desserts and drinks!
No trip to a Turkish restaurant would be complete without sampling the sweets and drinks. Here are a few to look for:
- Baklava: Layers of flaky pastry filled with chopped nuts and soaked in sweet syrup.
- Kunefe: A cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup and topped with pistachios. The contrast between the warm cheese and the sweet syrup is incredible.
- Sutlac: A creamy rice pudding, often baked until the top is golden brown.
Turkish coffee is brewed in a special pot called a cezve, and the grounds are served right along with the coffee. Tea is also a big part of Turkish culture and hospitality. You’ll often be offered tea when you visit someone’s home or a shop.
For something different, try ayran (a salty yogurt drink) or şalgam suyu (a fermented turnip juice).
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Brooklyn’s Turkish culinary scene stretches far beyond the main drags. Some of the best food comes from smaller, family-run places cherished by locals. These spots are often known for their friendly service and unique, home-style dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
Don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path! Look for restaurants with signs written in Turkish – that’s often a good sign that you’ve found a hidden gem. Ask around; locals are usually happy to share their favorite spots.
Keep an eye out for Turkish food trucks and pop-up vendors, too. They often show up at street fairs and markets, offering delicious and authentic tastes of Turkey.
Summary
Brooklyn’s Turkish restaurants offer a diverse and delicious culinary landscape, from cozy cafes serving traditional breakfast spreads to elegant restaurants dishing up expertly grilled kebabs. Whether you’re craving flaky borek, savory manti, or a sweet slice of baklava, Brooklyn has a Turkish restaurant to satisfy your appetite.
So, what are you waiting for? Embark on your own culinary adventure and explore the wonderful world of Turkish cuisine right here in Brooklyn! And while you’re at it, remember the importance of supporting our local Turkish businesses. They’re what makes our borough so vibrant and delicious.