When you step into Sofra, you’re not just entering a restaurant; you’re embarking on a culinary journey through Turkey’s rich and diverse flavors. Turkish cuisine is renowned worldwide for its delectable blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and centuries-old traditions. At Sofra, we bring these flavors to life with an array of kebabs, mezes, and more, offering an authentic dining experience that transports you straight to the streets of Istanbul, the coastal towns of the Aegean, and the vibrant markets of Anatolia.
As a Turkish restaurant, Sofra takes pride in offering a menu that reflects the true spirit of Turkey, from hearty grilled meats to fresh vegetable dishes and sweet, syrupy desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Turkish food or trying it for the first time, we invite you to dine with us today and discover the wonders of this unique cuisine.
The Art of Turkish Kebabs
Turkish kebabs are arguably one of the most famous exports of Turkey’s culinary heritage. At Sofra, we offer a wide variety of kebabs, each one prepared using traditional methods and the finest ingredients.
Shish Kebab is a staple on our menu. Skewered chunks of marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, are grilled over open flames, giving the meat a smoky flavor with a tender, juicy texture. This is one of the most iconic Turkish dishes, and each bite brings a perfect balance of spices and chargrilled goodness.
For those who love something a little spicier, the Adana Kebab is a must-try. Originating from the city of Adana in southern Turkey, this kebab is made with ground lamb mixed with hot red pepper and other spices. The meat is then wrapped around a skewer and grilled, offering a delightful, fiery kick that will leave your taste buds tingling.
If you’re after a milder but equally flavorful option, try the Chicken Döner Kebab. Thinly sliced chicken, marinated in a special blend of spices and yogurt, is slowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and a generous drizzle of garlicky yogurt sauce. This is a lighter alternative, perfect for those who prefer leaner meats but still crave that distinctive Turkish flavor.
At our Turkish restaurant, we also cater to vegetarians with options like vegetable skewers, where seasonal vegetables are grilled to perfection, and Halloumi Kebab, offering a savory, grilled cheese experience. These dishes are not only filling but bursting with the rich and smoky flavors that define Turkish barbecue.
Mezes: Small Dishes, Big Flavors
No Turkish dining experience is complete without mezes, a selection of small, shareable dishes often served as appetizers but equally satisfying as part of the main meal. Mezes are the heart and soul of Turkish social dining, meant to be enjoyed with friends and family, encouraging conversation and togetherness over plates brimming with flavor.
At Sofra, our meze menu is extensive and includes both hot and cold options. One of the most popular choices is Hummus, a creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon. Smooth and tangy, this dish is perfect for dipping with freshly baked Turkish bread.
Another cold meze favorite is Cacık, a refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip flavored with garlic and mint. Cacık is the ideal palate cleanser, light and cooling, especially when paired with heavier meat dishes like kebabs.
For a warm meze option, try our Sigara Böreği, crispy rolls of filo pastry stuffed with feta cheese and herbs. These golden delights are crunchy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s simply irresistible.
Fans of seafood will enjoy our Kalamar Tava, lightly battered and fried calamari served with a side of tangy lemon and garlic sauce. It’s crispy, tender, and full of the Mediterranean flavors that are so prevalent in Turkish coastal cuisine.
Our meze menu at Sofra reflects the variety and depth of Turkish food, showcasing everything from Patlıcan Ezmesi (smoked eggplant puree) to İmam Bayıldı (a luscious eggplant dish braised in olive oil with tomatoes and onions). Each dish is a testament to the versatility of Turkish cooking, where vegetables, legumes, and herbs come together in ways that are both familiar and exotic.
Traditional Turkish Desserts
After a savory meal of kebabs and mezes, there’s no better way to conclude your dining experience than with one of our signature Turkish desserts. Turkish sweets are famous for their richness and the way they combine layers of texture and flavor.
Baklava, for instance, is a must-try. Layers of flaky filo dough are filled with a mixture of finely chopped nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts) and drenched in sweet, aromatic syrup. This dessert is indulgent without being overly heavy, and the combination of crisp pastry and sticky syrup is nothing short of heavenly.
For a lighter dessert, we offer Künefe, a dessert made with shredded filo pastry (called kadayıf) filled with melty cheese and soaked in syrup. It’s baked until the outside is crispy, while the inside remains soft and gooey. Topped with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios, it’s the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Our Turkish restaurant also features Sütlaç, a creamy rice pudding delicately flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, and Lokma, small, bite-sized doughnuts soaked in honey syrup and often sprinkled with sesame seeds.
A True Turkish Dining Experience
At Sofra, we believe that the dining experience is about more than just food. We aim to create an atmosphere that reflects the warmth and hospitality of Turkish culture. Our restaurant’s décor is inspired by traditional Turkish elements, with rich colors, intricate patterns, and soft lighting that make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Istanbul café. Whether you’re joining us for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, our friendly staff is always on hand to ensure your experience is enjoyable.
In addition to our main dining area, we offer outdoor seating for those who wish to enjoy their meal in the fresh air, and our private dining options are perfect for special occasions, from birthdays to corporate events.
The Health Benefits of Turkish Cuisine
Beyond the irresistible flavors, Turkish food is also known for being a healthy and balanced cuisine. Many dishes are centered around fresh vegetables, lean meats, and legumes, with an emphasis on grilling rather than frying, which reduces the fat content of many dishes. The use of olive oil, a staple in Turkish cooking, provides heart-healthy fats, and ingredients like garlic, yogurt, and fresh herbs contribute to a diet that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
Diners at our Turkish restaurant can indulge in delicious meals without compromising their health goals, making Sofra an excellent choice for both a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.
Join Us at Sofra
If you’re craving a taste of Turkey, there’s no better place to be than Sofra. From succulent kebabs to a variety of vibrant mezes, our menu offers something for everyone, whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine or a long-time fan. Visit us today and allow us to take you on a culinary adventure through the heart of Turkey.