Amazing! Hidden secret in Tampa. Authentic Turkish food. The staff was friendly, menu had a large selection with vegetarian options. Turkish coffee, tea, desserts and a market to pick up unique items. Fresh hummus, gyros, kebabs etc. Aperal was super friendly, explained each menu item. He was passionate about the food and sharing his culture with me. He even carried my items to my car (since I bought so many things). I cant wait to visit again with family and friends.
How I can describe this visit! Amazingly awesome. Been to many other Middle Eastern Restaurants but this one has the 100👍Food was so delicious and fresh, we are from Miami, visit Tampa and found a jewel! Our waiter Alper was terrific, he explained every detail of the dish i wanted and when it came time for Dessert! Oh boy he was absolutely right! The Turkish Rice pudding! The taste of the milk is so reach that my mouth is watering at the moment, it was so delicious that we bought some to go! Highly recommended to come and eat at the Restaurant you wont regret it and the variety of goods they have for sell is a plus. We definitely will come back again next time will visit Tampa!
I stopped by for a late lunch on a Monday afternoon and was glad I did. The food and the service were both great. This place reminded me of the great Turkish food I have enjoyed in other countries. I also purchased some olives, loose leaf tea and bread. I am going to tell my friends to check this place out when they are in this part of Tampa.
If you’re looking for a true and genuine Turkish experience, this is the place to eat. None of that Americanized Turkish food other competitors try to sell. This is the real deal and I say this because I am Turkish and kebap in Turkey before. The meat and kebab truly taste like food at home!The market was also great too, they had a great selection of my favorite childhood snacks, it made me feel as if I was transported to Istanbul!Definitely go here for good food and an authentic Turkish atmosphere!
The customer service, the clean atmosphere, the food… it’s all amazing. After looking for 15 years for a donor kebab, I finally had one that is true and authentic. It was like I was back in Europe again. I can’t wait to go back and try new things. Thank you to all the amazing people who made this experience a one of a kind!
You have to come try this place out!!!! Their food was absolutely delicious, seasoned perfectly, and very fresh. Oh and you have to save room for dessert! Everyone was super nice and accomadating! The restaurant is inside a mini market. So after you eat, you get to shop all your favorite turkish products 🙌we definitely recommend and will be back. I wish we took food pictures. But we dug in right away 😋
Tampa is very lucky to have this awesome super authentic Turkish restaurant. This restaurant literally being Istanbul food to you. The Donor, the Shish kabab the Kibbeh the hummus oh my! They were all so so good, to top it off they have some amazing Turkish baklava and Kunafa. We just visited this place for the first time and we plan to visit again!Note: there is a great dine in area, plenty of parking and very nice people serving you. Highly recommended!
Tried 1 portion (5) cheese fried rolls they calls it cigars for $8 and hardly No cheese inside mostly dough. The lamb gyrp is $12 served in bread and no seasoning in the meat. Salt and pepper would suffice. Jeez!!!!Waste of my time and money. :(Small portions & high priced,Not going back to eat, sorry.
What a culinary experience our visit was!!!! The food was prepared perfectly. I have never had Turkish food before and what an experience it was with all the exciting flavors and food profiles I haven’t experienced before!Our server Riza, was excellent and a great guide to helping us order, his suggestions were spot on, and the service he provided our party, was exceptional….. if it was not enough, there is a deli and a grocery and everyone was very professional and courteous! Thanks to the staff of Istanbul Mediterranean Grill and Grocery for a wonderful experience!!!! I wish I had thought in advance and taken photos of our appetizers and entrees. I did remember to take some of the incredible desserts however…. Lol
Everything is fresh and presented nicely. Ample portions at very reasonable prices. Staff is very friendly and helpful to explain and recommend dishes. Fantastic market in the back! Dont forget to check out the desert counter and take something delicious home with you. Looking forward to many more meals at Istanbul.
The food is delicious. As I am from Germany, I have been missing turkish food for a very long time, and usually drive to St. Petersburg to eat foods from back home. This place satisfied all my taste-buds. The only reaso why I gave 4 stars is because of the service. Everyone working there were super nice, however, nobody came to check on us at all! We will be back. Be prepared that parking is very limited.
Tried the mix platter of appetizers. Its a lot of dips. I like Mediterranean food in general because its different. Their eggplant dip was delicious. Russian salad good; flavor wise its like potato salad. The hummus was good just had more tahini than Im used to. Grape leaves were much better than Ive tried (from the can). The walnut dip was weird/ different, first time trying it. Creamy and bitter.Also tried the mix meat platter. Kabobs were delicious (lamb and chicken). Moist chicken made with thigh meat (My boyfriends favorite). My favorite was the kofte; moist and flavorful.They gave me shavings of chicken; those were a bit dry but flavorful. Same with the strips of gyro meat, a bit dry but flavorful.Also had the warm cheese dessert with the complimentary English tea. Enjoyed it. Perfect amount of sweetness. Not overly sweet witch I was expecting it to be.Price wise; mediocre on the entrees. But they are a lot of food. We ate maybe 25% of that from the appetizer and entree combined. Plus dessert. 2 people.Homemade pita bread was different as well. Thick, warm, soft, bread texture. Considering Im used to the thinner pieces you use for gyros.
I went there with few of my friends and the experience was simply amazing. This is a hidden gem for all the Mediterranean food lovers. The host, server and the owner are very welcoming and helpful. I went there twice and food was simply great. First time I tried chicken and it was tender and extremely tasty however, the goat kebabs were little dry but still tasty. Also the spicy hummus and bread is amazing. This is a must try restaurants if you are visiting Tampa.
Food and service was amazing! Everything was flavorful and freshly prepared. Alper was a wonderful server who went above and beyond to help and answer any questions. I can tell that this establishment puts love and care into everything they do. They had all of my favorite Turkish treats in stock except for the ice cream. No wonder! its so delicious so I understand why it is sold out. I am looking forward to coming again (and buying as much ice cream as i can!)
Fresh bread, delicious tea, amazing food and you can top off your meal with an exceptional dessert. After my meal I felt like I was going to burst but I made room for a little rice pudding. I have no regrets! I will be going back to try more of their menu.
What a hidden gem.I walked in and the place was immaculately clean. I washed my hands in the restroom and even that was spotless with no touch soap and a dryer.Everyone spoke when I walked in and the smell of fresh bread is so nice.There are so many Turkish options from Soda and spices to nuts and cold items.On top if that there is a restaurant inside. Fresh lamb and chicken is ready for your meal. My cheese cigars were fried fresh. Ohhh the bread...I bought 10, lol.This is it. Try something new and support local!
One of the best food in entire Tampa bay! So taste, price is good and fair. I was served by Alper, such a humble guy. Wonderful recommendations by him. Would come here everyday if I can make time.
Great, flavorful and authentic food! Great service! Will definitely be back
Amazing customer service with equally amazing food! I highly recommend eating here, my family loves this restaurant. The employees are always so friendly and their service is fast! Come here to get all your Mediterranean food needs!
Our second trip to Istanbul was just as amazing as the first! This time we came with two friends (it was their first time). We started with cheese cigars and a mixed cold appetizer. For entrees, we had chicken, beef and lamb kebabs and beyti. We finished with coffee, tea and kunefe (soooo good!!!). Everything was delicious. Our server Alper had great recommendations and jokes, and helped make it a wonderful evening out. Can’t wait to come back!
Authentic Turkish food. Best in the Tampa area and well worth the drive. Come here hungry!! Also, there is a market for staple necessities. Highly recommend their baklava.
Great food and excellent service. Alper was great and helped us with everything we needed as well as any questions we had.Would highly recommend food and service is 10/10
Food and service was great! Everything was perfect and large portions. All prices are fair. Alper was a kind server and has a very smiling face always . He helped with everything. We look forward to coming again soon!
Terrific little Mediterranean restaurant- Alper treated us so well and the food is super !!
Excellent service Mr. Alper very dependent on the service he attended us with a professional and educated
Food was amazing, fresh, and so tasty. My complaint is the size of dining capacity...it is small, like 10 tables, there is not enough overhead shade to even sit comfortably outside in Florida weather, and they reserve so many tables hours in advance that is not worth walking in especially on the weekend. The poor girl at the front is clearly young and overwhelmed by the number of people, or at least was on the day my friend and I were there.
This restaurant is excellent. Fresh, authentic Turkish food. Tastes just like what I had in Istanbul! The staff is friendly and helpful. If you dont know what to order just ask. They wont steer you wrong. I tried 3 dishes I have never had even though I have been to the Middle East several times. It was all so very good and they have a little shop where I purchased apple tea which I love.
Turks are known to be the most hospitable in all the land and a visit to this local establishment will not disappoint! The entire staff is generous and gracious and is ready to make your experience a GOLD STAR moment! Smiling faces are evident even behind a mask.The food is authentic, fresh and will meet all your senses needs.
Great tasting food, very nice people working there.
The food, atmosphere, and service was amazing! Cant wait to try everything on their menu. And I will definitely be getting a few of the lamps, they are gorgeous!
Amazing place! The quality of food is really good. They serve a variety of fresh meat (kabobs, shawarma), best baklava in Tampa Bay and a selection of appetizers with eggplant (I love them!). It’s a pleasure to take a sit by the window and enjoy this special Mediterranean spirit around! I also found red lentils in their store, which I didn’t see anywhere else.The owner and team are very friendly and hospitable.
Alper treated us like family and the kitchen dished out delicious authentic food. We were a group of 13 and everyone loved everything from the appetizers to the desserts. Glad we found this place, we will surely return often!
Amazing food! Very clean and great staff! By far the most authentic Turkish food I’ve had in the States. The tea was fantastic. Market was great and we got some little desserts and a yoghurt drink.
Great place great food. Tachakur.
This quaint restaurant is conveniently located off State Road 54 in front of the Oak Grove subdivision. We thoroughly enjoyed their food, the price was terrific, and the service on point! We will definitely be back to try other items on the menu!
Alper was so helpful and friendly and had excellent menu suggestions. The chef did a wonderful display of tasty mixed grill appetizers and mixed grill platter. We also had turkish ravioli which had a lovely aroma as well as delightful taste. Highly recommend everything including dessert and Turkish coffee. It brought back fond childhood memories. Best wishes.
Best place for Turkish food and grocery. We went their on vacation and dined there so delicious and the staff is outstanding. Recommend the place if you visit Tampa area its not far from Clearwater either.
We would have loved to eat here, but they sat us outside and never came back after 30 minutes, so we left. Food looks delicious, but couldnt order :/
Omg the best food ever I am driving every week 40 min just for there beautiful food and tea 🍵
We have been coming to this restaurant for about a year now and every time the service is great but especially today’s visit with Alper. He is passionate about Turkey and his service is amazing. The food is very tasty and well worth the drive .
I had a good experience with the food quality, taste and serving. Alpar served me well with his kind and great hospitality.
The restaurant is amazing it has delicous food and alper is wonderful person has awesome smile and funny plus excellent customer service I would like to recommend this restaurant for everybody
Authentic Mediterranean grill, wonderful menu, market grocery and cafe. Small but smart restaurant, commonly quite busy at peak times. Parking is tight. Have lunch or dinner or call ahead to go
Absolutely the best Turkish place in Tampa. So organized, clean and welcoming place. Food is fresh and outstanding!Our waiter Alper was super welcoming and friendly, made us feel like we keep knew them before.If you are tea drinker, complimentary tea perfect after good meal!Thank you Alper!!!
It was all right remind me of my time back in Iran I miss my turban headed friends
One of the best Mediterranean food joints in Tampa Bay. Great food, amazing hospitality. We really like the shop attached to it where you can buy turkish delights, and other foods and beverages. We enjoy the atmosphere every time.
The counter service from the gal working the register was great! Baklava was darn good, and their market is really neat. Their selection of Turkish Delight was impressive and the one I bought was almost as good as what I had in Kuşadası. Will be back!Only critique, it was awkward browsing the Turkish Delight with a seated diner eating a foot away from it.
Excellent food and excellent service. Alper was an excellent server. Will be back soon
How to describe it is wonderful a delicious food the wonderful attention of the workers I go every week I love it
House made pita, falafel, lamb/chicken gyro plate with pickled cabbage, tomato, onion and rice pilaf were all very fresh and tasty. Most if not all items prepared when ordered.Market side has a good selection of mid eastern foodproducts
Excellent service,little bit pricey!!
What a complete gem this place is! The food is amazing. Definitely spring for the homemade pita. Best falafal Ive ever had. The service is wonderful too!
First time having Turkish food. Wish I remembered the exact order but I ordered their beef w white rice and their side pink salad w garlic sauce. Stuffed all that in their bread like a side burrito DELICIOUS. Oh yea Riza is sooo adorable love his attentive customer service and smile REMEMEBER RISA MEANS SMILE IN SPANISH :)
Mr. Alper was serving us and we liked the restaurant and workers thank u so much.
The best Mediterranean food and market place in town, I have been coming here several times, you get flavor full delicious Turkish food with consistency and amazing service, and every time leave the place full and happy, make sure to try the complimentary tee at the end of your meal to experience the real miedelistarn hospitality, Riza and Maria are top among the best of amazing team.
I must say this is the first time here and I definitely coming back I love the food
Many options on the menu. from the moment you enter you can feel the exquisite aromas of the food (even with the mask on) the bread is fresh and delicious, the meat and chicken well seasoned and juicy. I will return very soon to try other of their dishes. Really delicious!
The food is excellent and service is top notch. Our server Alper was very attentive and knowledgeable. I will be back many times!
Great taste great staff I love this place 100% I’m coming back everyday
Very clean and spacious inside. Super welcoming to people wanting to try Turkish food for the first time. Ive been looking for a place that doesnt serve Turkish cuisine as an auxiliary food to other Mediterranean countries and u can say that this is the spot.
Hidden gem. My favorite Turkish place in town. Phenomenal food. Excellent service. Friendly staff. Get there early 😋
Really amazing spot for traditional food. Customer service is great, product selection is superb a few the food is excellent.
Food was great, and our server Alper was the best! Wonderful to have this authentic Turkish food place here.
This was my first time trying this place. Its a grill and market place with about 8-10 tables. The price range is between $10-$20. I ordered the Beyti and a Turkish tea. I knew of Beyti but had never tried it. It was delicious. Very nice portion and presentation for $15.99. The tea was freshly brewed and the place has a very welcoming atmosphere.
Very attentive service. Original and flavorful menu items made for you. Highly recommended.
I finally got around to trying Istanbul and it did not disappoint! Every member of the staff that we came in to contact was delightful. My boyfriend and I ordered a few items that we had never heard of. The Beyti and the Manti absolutely knocked it out of the park! incredibly delicious! Unfortunately we ordered an appetizer that never showed up, which I am pretty sure ended up on the table behind us. The only reason Im not leaving 5 stars is because the service needs a little work. The guy taking care of us was very nice but I felt bad because he was literally running through the restaurant. Besides that I was totally pleased. Not only am I excited to return, but I will be telling all of my friends how exceptional the food is. Thanks!