21 most favorite Turkish restaurants in New York City
Turkish Restaurants in New York City: A Culinary Delight New York City is known for its diverse food scene, and Turkish restaurants in New York City are no exception. These culinary gems bring the rich flavors and spices of Turkey to the streets of NYC, offering a unique dining experience for food enthusiasts. From traditional kebabs and pide to delicate pastries and strong Turkish coffee, Turkish restaurants in New York City are a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Turkey in the heart of the city.
- 1. ABA Turkish Restaurant
- 2. Antalia NYC Restaurant/Caterer
- 3. Turkuaz Halal Turkish Mediterranean
- 4. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine
- 5. AGORA TURKISH RESTAURANT
- 6. Turkish Cuisine
- 7. Turkish Kitchen
- 8. A la Turka
- 9. Leyla
- 10. NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine
- 11. Turco Mediterranean Grill
- 12. SipSak
- 13. Sophra Grill
- 14. Istanbul Kebab House
- 15. Beyoglu Grill
- 16. Bodrum Mediterranean Restaurant
- 17. Lezzet
- 18. istanbul Bay Express
- 19. Memo Shish Kebab - Manhattan
- 20. Aksaray
- 21. Akdeniz Turkish Cuisine
1. ABA Turkish Restaurant
Offers traditional Turkish tea and coffee

The service at the establishment is a point of contrast among visitors, with some describing it as very cold and unfriendly. This lack of warmth and friendliness has nearly ruined the experience for at least one visitor, who has been coming to the establishment for many years. It is worth noting that this visitor wishes for an improvement in the service, particularly in terms of staff showing more enthusiasm and speaking up.
On the other hand, other visitors have reported excellent and friendly service during their stay. The staff is described as accommodating, attentive, and genuine, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Overall, the service has been noted to be good, which has contributed to a positive experience for many visitors.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
2. Antalia NYC Restaurant/Caterer
Famous Turkish restaurant in the heart of NYC

The service at this establishment is generally described as quick, friendly, and attentive. While a few users have reported slow service, the overall experience has been positive. The restaurant offers a variety of appetizing appetizers, such as hummus, falafel, mixed spreads, and eggplant. Some reviewers have noted that the portions for these dishes are on the smaller side, but the taste has been consistently enjoyed.
In summary, the service is generally commendable, although there have been a few isolated instances of slow service. The appetizer selection is varied and features popular choices like hummus and falafel. The portion sizes may be small for some, but the taste has been positively received by most reviewers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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3. Turkuaz Halal Turkish Mediterranean
Live music performances on weekends, welcoming atmosphere, and belly dancing shows

The service at this establishment is consistently praised for its friendliness and efficiency. Staff are commended for their attentive and accommodating nature, which contributes to an overall positive dining experience.
The food served is often described as delicious and authentic, with dishes prepared thoroughly and to a high standard. However, some guests have noted that the prices are higher than they expected, which may be a deterrent for some potential diners.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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4. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine
Exotic spices and flavors, Freshly prepared traditional meals, Warm and inviting ambiance

The restaurant provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making guests feel welcome and at ease, as if they are dining in a friend's home. The food served is attractively presented, and there is an abundance of dishes to choose from. The kitchen takes care in delivering orders on time, ensuring that food arrives at the table hot and fresh. The restaurant's staff is careful to ensure that each order is correct, double-checking tickets and confirming orders with customers before sending them to the kitchen.
With a focus on good food, on-time delivery, and accurate orders, this restaurant aims to provide a top-notch dining experience for its guests. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, each made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Customers can trust that their orders will be delivered promptly and accurately, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable mealtime experience. The restaurant's commitment to delivering excellent food and service has earned it a loyal following of satisfied customers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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5. AGORA TURKISH RESTAURANT
Live music on weekends, Traditional Turkish decor and ambiance

I had a fantastic dining experience at Agora recently with a group of friends. The food was incredible, with offerings that were well-prepared, flavorful, and diverse. Turkish dishes and sushi were among the options that particularly stood out. In addition to the delicious food, the staff was also very friendly and contributed to the overall great atmosphere of the restaurant.
I would highly recommend Agora and plan to return in the future. Besides the tasty food, the ambiance was another highlight of the restaurant. The combination of excellent food, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere made for a wonderful evening with friends.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Holiday Celebrations
- Gluten-Free
6. Turkish Cuisine
Live traditional music on weekends

Some guests consider the prices at the establishment to be on the higher side, with individual entrées priced between $15.95 and $17.95 and beers available for $7.00 each. Despite these higher prices, the food itself has been highly praised for its delicious taste and health benefits. Customers have specifically noted the excellent quality of the food and the generous portion sizes.
The establishment's menu features a variety of delicious and healthy food options. The food has been consistently praised for its excellent taste, with customers raving about the delightful flavors and the opportunity to enjoy a healthy meal. The portion sizes have also been noted as generous, adding to the overall value of the dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
7. Turkish Kitchen
Live Turkish music on weekends, Traditional hookah lounge

This Turkish restaurant offers a 4-course lunch, including an appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert, at a very reasonable price of $16.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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8. A la Turka
Live Turkish music performances on weekends

A La Turka is a restaurant that offers a wide selection of kebabs, including chicken, lamb, and beef, as well as Mediterranean fish options like Branzini. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that makes diners feel like they are having an authentic and memorable meal in Istanbul's Bosphorus.
The food at A La Turka is made with great care and attention to detail, resulting in dishes that are both labor-intensive and incredibly fresh. The restaurant is known for its high-quality food, which has been compared to the meals that a Turkish mother would prepare for her family. The end result is delicious and satisfying meals that are well worth trying.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
9. Leyla
Live traditional music performances on weekends

Leyla is a restaurant that provides a unique dining experience by combining authentic Turkish flavors and ingredients with the culture of the country. The restaurant's offerings are a true reflection of Turkish cuisine, making it a great option for those looking to explore the culinary delights of Turkey.
The drink prices at Leyla are quite reasonable, with brunch cocktails and coffee or orange juice available for just $4. Among the various drink options, the Botanist is a highly recommended choice due to its refreshing taste. Whether you're looking to quench your thirst or complement your meal, Leyla's drink menu has something for everyone.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
10. NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine

TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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11. Turco Mediterranean Grill
Cozy atmosphere, Live music on weekends, Homemade desserts

The food at this establishment is enjoyed by many, with gyro sandwiches being a highly popular choice. The chicken shish sandwich is also a favorite among guests, but it doesn't receive as much praise as the gyro or falafel sandwiches. After passing by this new spot several times, I decided to try their delivery service. I was hesitant and expected just another average falafel place. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food.
I ordered the falafel platter and the chicken kebab platter, and both were flavorful and delicious. The food was well-packaged and held up during the delivery process. The falafel and chicken were the standouts of the meal, and they came with plenty of rice and salad. The portions were generous and satisfying. I am looking forward to ordering from this place again in the future.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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12. SipSak
Offers vegetarian and halal options

The ambiance at the establishment is romantic and elegant, featuring beautiful background music and stylish decor with dark wood and white napkins. The service staff is generally described as friendly and attentive, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience.
However, there were some complaints about service issues, with a few guests mentioning that they felt rushed or received poor service during their visit. While the overall service is characterized as efficient, there is room for improvement to ensure that all guests receive the same high level of attention and care.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems
13. Sophra Grill
Charcoal-grilled meats, Freshly baked pide bread

The salad options offered are varied and include traditional choices such as shepherd's salad, Greek salad, and Mediterranean salad. These salads feature crisp red cabbage and beet, adding color and nutrition to the dishes.
The food at this establishment is renowned for its quality and authenticity. Popular dishes include the Iskender, a lamb gyro, and lahmacun, a type of Turkish pizza. The red lentil soup is also a customer favorite, known for its generous portions and delicious taste.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
14. Istanbul Kebab House
Friendly staff, Cozy atmosphere, Doner kebab cooked on a vertical spit

The service at this establishment is known to be efficient and the staff friendly, providing quick service to their customers. However, there have been reports of a change in ownership, which some claim has negatively affected the quality of food and service.
The kebabs served at this establishment are highly regarded, known for their authentic Turkish flavors and tender meat. The sides are also praised for their excellence. However, there are some customers who have expressed disappointment with the Adana kebab, suggesting that it may not meet their expectations.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
15. Beyoglu Grill
Family-owned and operated, Halal menu options

The food served at the establishment is consistently high in quality, fresh, and delicious. The mixed grill platter and appetizer platter are particularly popular among guests. The restaurant goes above and beyond to ensure that the food is of the highest standard, using only fresh and flavorful ingredients.
Guests have consistently praised the service at the restaurant for being excellent, friendly, and helpful. The staff creates a positive ambiance that enhances the dining experience. They are not only attentive to the guests' needs but also provide helpful recommendations and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable mealtime.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
16. Bodrum Mediterranean Restaurant
Offers belly dancing performances and a varied Turkish menu

The staff at this establishment are known for their kind and welcoming personalities. They are attentive and friendly to all guests, whether they are children or dogs. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home.
When it comes to the menu, there are a few standout dishes. The Moussaka is highly recommended and receives consistent praise for its flavor and preparation. Additionally, the lamb kebab is a popular choice among diners. These dishes are just a sample of the delicious offerings available at this establishment.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
17. Lezzet
Live Turkish music on weekends, Traditional decor and atmosphere

The Turkish restaurant in NYC is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and delicious Turkish cuisine. A colleague and I, who had been there on a prior business trip, chose to have lunch there again, and I was eager to return after having enjoyed it so much before. The eggplant salad stood out as particularly noteworthy, as it tasted just like what you would get in Turkey, fresh and full of flavor, as if your mother had made it. The Doner Kebab was also excellent, with a homemade taste that made us feel as if we were in Istanbul.
This restaurant has become a fast favorite for anyone in search of fresh and flavorful Middle Eastern food. From the hummus and bread to the grape leaves, lamb, and fish, every dish is bursting with freshness and taste. The service is also commendable, with staff who are friendly, attentive, and never rush their customers. The portions are large, making it possible for two people to share and keep the overall cost modest. It's a delight to have discovered this hidden gem, and we can't wait to go back and try even more of their delicious offerings.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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18. istanbul Bay Express
Offers a taste of Istanbul in New York City

Istanbul Bay Turkish Restaurant has revolutionized the fast food industry in America by introducing the beloved Turkish gyro through their Istanbul Bay Express concept at affordable prices. This establishment, renowned as one of the top Turkish restaurants in the country, has brought a fresh perspective to quick service dining by offering a high-quality and delicious alternative to conventional fast food options.
During a business trip to Turkey, I had the pleasure of savoring an authentic Turkish gyro. Upon my return to New York, I was thrilled to discover that the same exquisite taste could be found at Istanbul Bay Turkish Restaurant, an establishment that has truly mastered the art of traditional Turkish cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
19. Memo Shish Kebab - Manhattan
Charcoal-grilled skewers, Homemade bread, Wide variety of vegetarian options

The lamb and chicken gyros at this establishment are consistently cooked to perfection. The meals are served with rice and salad, providing a well-rounded and satisfying meal. This location is an excellent choice when looking for a quick and delicious dining option.
However, there are some inconsistencies with the food quality. While some dishes, such as the gyros, are hot and full of flavor, other dishes can be disappointingly bland and cold. Fortunately, the service is quick and the establishment is clean, making for an overall pleasant dining experience. Despite the occasional inconsistencies in food quality, the delicious gyros and quick service make this a worthy spot to consider for a meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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20. Aksaray
Serves traditional Turkish tea and coffee

Aksaray Turkish Cafe & Restaurant is a local favorite, boasting a rating of 4.7 based on 431 reviews. The establishment is highly regarded for its kebabs, soups, and freshly baked flatbreads, which are available around the clock.
At Aksaray, guests can enjoy a wide range of Turkish dishes such as appetizer platters, lentil soup, and warm Turkish bread. The restaurant's accommodating and friendly staff ensure a welcoming atmosphere, making diners feel at home. With its clean ambiance, 24/7 operating hours, and affordable prices, Aksaray offers an exceptional Turkish dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems
- Happy Hours
21. Akdeniz Turkish Cuisine
Offers hookah smoking with various flavors

The Mediterranean restaurant, Akdeniz, is a consistent favorite for many, including myself, who have been going for years. The food is consistently excellent due to their fresh ingredients and dedication to customer satisfaction. My office staff, who come from various cultural backgrounds, frequently order lunch from there and are unanimous in their praise.
The hummus and zucchini pancakes are standouts on the menu, but everything is delicious. The staff and service are always excellent, making it a top recommendation for local friends and out-of-town clients. It's the perfect place for a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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