Published: September 20, 2024
Updated: September 25, 2024
If you ever find yourself wandering around Budapest, looking for a place to dine that offers not just food but an experience, Turkiz Restaurant on Nádor Street is the place to be. Having heard so much about it, I finally made a reservation for an evening, ready to dive into the heart of Turkish cuisine in the heart of Hungary.
The Ambiance: A Blend of Elegance and Warmth
The first thing that strikes you about Turkiz is the atmosphere. The modern decor, beautifully accented with Turkish design elements, immediately transports you to a blend of Middle Eastern luxury and European charm. The interior design is top-notch, from the turquoise tiles on the walls to the ambient lighting that makes the space both cozy and vibrant. There’s a balance between modern and traditional, making the place feel welcoming whether you’re there for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
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But let me tell you about the view. Nestled close to the Hungarian Parliament, Turkiz offers not just culinary delights but also a glimpse of one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Sitting outside during the golden hour, with the sun setting over the city, added an unforgettable dimension to the whole experience.
When it comes to the menu, I was spoiled for choice. But after a bit of deliberation, I went with a mix of traditional and unique dishes. Here’s what I had:
What I Ordered: A Feast for the Senses
Starters: Mezze to Start the Night
- The mezze platter was a highlight. Each dip was fresh, and the hummus was incredibly creamy. The Ezme added a bit of spice and tang, which balanced the richer flavors of the baba ganoush. It was a perfect start to the meal.
- Ezogelin Soup: A traditional Turkish soup made from red lentils, bulgur, and rice, this was hearty and full of rich flavors. I could taste the authenticity in every spoonful.
- Lahmacun: This thin Turkish pizza was light and crispy, topped with minced lamb, onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s a must-try if you love savory flatbreads.
Main Course: The Grill Masters
- Adana Kebap: This dish did not disappoint. The lamb was tender, juicy, and perfectly spiced. Served with grilled vegetables and a side of pilaf, it was a true taste of Turkey right in Budapest. I loved how it was grilled to perfection over charcoal, bringing out the natural flavors of the meat.
- The lamb shank, which many reviews recommended, was cooked to perfection. The meat fell off the bone, juicy and flavorful, exactly how you’d expect it. The portion size was generous, and the presentation was also quite impressive.
Drinks: A Taste of Turkey in a Glass
- Ayran: A refreshing yogurt-based drink, slightly salty and served cold, it was a perfect contrast to the spicy flavors of the food.
- Turkish Lemonade: Sweet, tangy, and with a hint of rose, this drink was a great refresher throughout the meal.
- For those wanting something non-alcoholic, I recommend the Türkiz alcohol free. The blend of Blue Curacao syrup, elderflower, and lemon juice makes for a refreshing, light choice that pairs well with their mezze platters.
- The cocktails, from what I saw at other tables, were beautifully garnished.
- However, I did notice something that aligned with several reviews: the sparkling water. They serve it from a soda gun, which many diners, including myself, found surprising, especially given the high-end feel of the place. This was definitely one of the minor letdowns.
Dessert: Saving the Best for Last
Dessert was the famous Kunefe, a sweet Turkish pastry made with shredded filo dough and cheese, soaked in syrup. It was heavenly. The balance between the crispiness and the sweet syrup was just right, and it’s no surprise that this dish gets so much love from patrons.
Drinks: A Perfect Pairing
The drinks menu was equally impressive. I opted for a ginger lemonade, which was refreshing and light, complementing the richness of the meal. They also have a selection of traditional drinks, including Ayran, a savory yogurt drink that pairs wonderfully with the spicy dishes.
Service: Room for Improvement?
However, not everything was flawless. As noted in several reviews, the service could be a bit hit or miss. On our night, while most of the team was friendly, there were a few hiccups. For instance, at one point, we asked for extra bread, but by the time it arrived, we had nearly finished our meal. Another moment of confusion occurred when our waiter attempted to clear our plates before we had fully finished. These minor missteps didn’t ruin the evening, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re expecting flawless service.
The sparkling water was filled from a homemade machine, we asked for a sealed bottle and they changed it. It’s one of those moments that makes you pause, but to their credit, the staff was quick to correct it.
There’s always something festive happening. At least four birthday songs played while I was there, with the staff enthusiastically joining in. It added a lively, fun touch to the evening!. So, if you’re looking for a quieter night out, it might be best to plan your visit outside of peak times.
Pricing: Worth Every Penny?
Now, let’s talk about pricing. Turkiz is not the most affordable option in town, especially considering its location near Parliament, but you definitely get what you pay for in terms of quality and ambiance. A meal for two, including drinks, will easily set you back 20,000 HUF or more. The mixed grill platters and lamb dishes are priced on the higher side, but honestly, I found the portion sizes to be generous, and the flavors justified the cost.
The staff spoke multiple languages, although a few struggled with Hungarian, which could be a slight inconvenience for locals.
That said, some guests have remarked that certain dishes feel overpriced for what you get, especially if you’re comparing it to other Turkish restaurants in Budapest. For instance, one reviewer mentioned receiving sparkling water refilled from a soda gun instead of bottled water, which is quite surprising for a place of this caliber. It’s these small details that can make or break the overall experience.
Google Rating: 4.5/5
With 1,995 reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating on Google, it’s clear that Turkiz is a crowd favorite. While there are some critiques about the music being too loud and prices being on the higher side, the quality of food and overall experience seems to make up for it. I’d personally give it a 4.7/5—an experience that’s almost perfect, with just a few tweaks needed.
FAQ: What You Should Know Before You Go
1. Do I need a reservation?
Yes, it’s highly recommended. Turkiz can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so it’s best to book in advance.
2. Is Turkiz suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! The menu offers a variety of vegetarian options, including mezze platters, salads, and stuffed peppers.
3. Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, the atmosphere is lively and welcoming to families. They even offer high chairs for little ones.
4. What’s the price range?
It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it. Expect to spend around 12,000–20,000 HUF per person depending on what you order. If you’re celebrating something special, it’s definitely a splurge-worthy experience.
5. Do they offer halal food?
Yes, Turkiz Restaurant serves halal-certified dishes, which makes it a popular spot for Muslim guests.
6. What’s the average cost of a meal?
Expect to spend around 15,000 – 20,000 HUF per person, depending on your choice of dishes and drinks. The prices are on the higher end, but the quality and experience justify it.
7. Is parking available?
There’s paid street parking nearby, but it can be tricky to find a spot during peak hours.
Conclusion: Will I Return?
Absolutely. Despite a few minor service-related drawbacks, Turkiz offers an unforgettable dining experience, blending delicious food with a beautiful setting. Whether you’re a local or a traveler looking to explore authentic Turkish cuisine, I would highly recommend giving this place a try.
The minor issues with service are easily overlooked, thanks to the restaurant’s charm and the dedication of its team. Don’t forget to try the Kunefe—it’s the perfect way to end a delightful meal.
Just be prepared for a slightly noisy atmosphere if you’re dining during peak hours.
