‘Every Chef Must Train Here’: Humble Turkish Dining Spot Earns 4th on List of London’s Leading Dining Destinations.

Whenever curating a ranking of London’s best restaurants, one might foresee renowned award-winning names. Yet, tucked near the top among these gastronomic giants is a simple salonu found in a far-flung area of northern London.

An Shocking Accolade

The small Turkish eatery, focusing in the specialties of Mersin, a port city on Turkey’s southern coast, has been named the 4th finest restaurant in the capital by a respected food magazine. This honour has made the family totally astonished.

“I’m totally shocked,” remarks a family member, referring to his parents’ dedication that resulted in their modest shop securing such a high position on a notable 99-strong list.

The Appeal of Modesty

This small shop, which was a simple cafe before its conversion into a popular food hotspot, has retained much of its former character. It fits just more than 20 people and, aside from the impressive live cooking display, the layout remains essentially unchanged. “It is a small and stocky space,” notes the owner.

A Signature Creation: Tantuni

However, it’s focused on the cuisine, and this establishment certainly succeeds. The eatery’s signature dish, tantuni, is a straightforward joy. Choice of meat—either lamb or chicken—is steamed to preserve a moist, juicy quality.

The meat is then tossed into a massive pan with spices and oil, which are added in gradually. Once the flavourful mixture starts to simmer, homemade lavaş—a pliable bread—is placed on top to soak in all the juices. Thinly sliced onions and a sprinkling of parsley are placed before the savoury meat is rolled securely inside.

It is typically consumed with a squeeze of lemon or some tangy accompaniments. The final product is a powerful punch of taste, with subtle hints of sumac, punchy onions and rich, paprika-red oil bringing it all together.

Beyond the Basic Tantuni

Patrons can also try yoğurtlu tantuni, where the meat-filled lavaş is cut up and crowned with yogurt, tomato sauce and rich, nutty brown butter. The leading food critic called this dish “among London’s few perfect, no-notes dishes”.

For sweets, the eatery’s künefe goes down a delight. It is soaked in less syrup than is typical, imparting it a deeper, more aromatic and not overly sweet taste.

Surpassing the Titans

Interestingly, this unassuming spot has ranked above several celebrated three-Michelin-starred establishments. It finds itself close to the summit of the list, following other notable dining destinations.

While two people could readily leave this place full for under £25, similar experiences at high-end establishments can run into significantly more than that price.

A Creed of Heart

It is also part of several Turkish restaurants included and is found well beyond the city’s central zones. “It is not focused on luxury. London is an expensive city. It is expectation that in an expensive place you’re going to have the top service and finest food but I do not agree with that,” says the owner.

“I believe what is most important is hospitality, kindness and a place you can be yourself and be calm.”

This view is shared by the list’s curator, who remarked that if he were in a position of authority, he would “require to have every chef in London come to this spot as a masterclass, to show them the pitfalls of overcomplication, and to show what is achievable if you do a few – or three – things to their very best”.

A Story of Perseverance

Unlike many chefs managing kitchens in the list’s highest ranks, the head chef behind the food did not train at elite establishments. “I feel very happy of our shop and our mum,” adds her son.

Many restaurants need years to become successful, but this eatery first launched seven years ago. Its acclaim is owing to tireless, seven-day weeks of dedication.

“My mum was really tired. She would source produce in the morning and make the food in the afternoon. Each item is handmade; she would handle all of this. She is a solo parent and she had a social life but her friends would come here to encourage her. She was raising children and a house to manage as well. All of these duties forged her into what she is now: a exceptional person,” he reflects.

An Achievement for the Community

This restaurant’s recognition is set to resonate beyond its own premises. “I believe a lot of people would be pleased, as I am, because the Turkish community is a significant part of London,” concludes the owner, highlighting the broader meaning of this gastronomic honour.