If you’re craving the warm flavours of Turkish cuisine, South Africa has a rich selection of restaurants that promise an authentic experience. Whether you’re heading out for a family dinner, a friendly meet-up, or a romantic dinner date, we have listed some of the best Turkish spots to explore and you’re in for a treat.
These Turkish restaurants are fantastic dining options, whether you’re in the mood for succulent kebabs, savoury mezes, or crispy börek, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
1. Saray Restaurant
Located in the heart of Cape Town, Saray Restaurant offers a cosy atmosphere that’s perfect for family gatherings. The menu boasts a variety of traditional Turkish dishes, from succulent kebabs to mouthwatering baklava, making it a delightful experience for all ages.
Address: Shop G01 Clocktower Building, S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001
Hours: Monday – Thursday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Contact: 066 430 3391
2. Ala Turkish
Ala Turkish Restaurant invites diners to experience the best of Turkish cuisine in the Mother City. The kitchen is led by three master Turkish chefs, each of whom has dedicated significant time and effort to perfecting their craft, ensuring that every dish reflects the true essence of Turkish cuisine.
Kebabs are grilled to perfection on skewers over a searing charcoal fire, while Turkish bread and pide are baked in a traditional village clay oven. The tea and coffee, imported directly from Turkey, are prepared using traditional methods, offering a genuine taste of Turkish culture.
Address: Shop 110, The Rockwell, Napier St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Contact: 021 419 0162
3. Damascus Restaurant
For a relaxed meet-up with friends, Damascus Restaurant is a top choice. With its welcoming ambience and diverse menu, you can enjoy everything from mezzes to shawarma while catching up with loved ones in a laid-back setting.
Address: Mount Curtis, 307 Main Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8005
Hours: Monday – Thursday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Friday: 1:30 PM – 11:30 PM | Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Contact: 081 757 3148
4. Mesopotamia Kurdish Restaurant
Mesopotamia Kurdish Restaurant offers an authentic taste of traditional Kurdish cuisine in the lively Green Market Square of Cape Town. Embracing the rich and diverse flavours of Kurdish and Middle Eastern cuisines, the restaurant is committed to using only the finest ingredients. This dedication to quality food not only delights the palate but also brings people together, creating unforgettable dining experiences.
Ideal for a dinner date, the restaurant’s intimate setting, combined with rich, aromatic dishes, creates the perfect romantic atmosphere.
Address: 36 Burg St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Contact: 021 424 4664
5. Zeetan Turkish Restaurant
Zeetan Turkish Restaurant is a vibrant spot, perfect for those looking to enjoy a mix of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. The friendly service and delicious dishes make it a great place for a casual meet-up or a family meal.
The restaurant has recently updated its menu by adding some exciting new dishes, but also kept the classics that their loyal customers know and love.
Address: 233 Main Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8005
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM
Contact: 078 647 1110
6. The Turkish Grill
For those eager to explore something different and delicious, The Turkish Grill is a must-visit. The restaurant’s Istanbul Mix platters are a highlight, featuring an array of char-grilled meats accompanied by six different sides, including salads, rice, chips, and more.
Whether dining solo or with a group, the platters are customizable to suit any taste and preference, ensuring a satisfying and flavourful experience.
Address: 52 Central Rd, Fordsburg, Johannesburg, 2033
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Contact: 011 056 5749
7. Lokkum Turkish Restaurant
Perfect for a friendly meet-up, Lokkum Turkish Restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Turkish cuisine. The restaurant brings a fresh perspective to the Turkish dining scene with its meat-focused menu.
The restaurant’s grill-based dishes are rooted in authentic Turkish recipes, but they are reimagined with contemporary cooking techniques and innovative ingredients, offering a unique and modern twist on traditional flavours.
Address: 119 William Rd (Cnr, Grant Ave, Norwood) Johannesburg, 2192
Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Contact: 081 890 2006
8. Yalla!
Yalla Restaurant invites diners on a culinary journey that transports them straight to the Middle East. With a commitment to serving good food promptly, the restaurant offers an authentic, delectable, and flavourful menu crafted from the finest ingredients.
Yalla takes pride in its quality dishes, friendly staff, and dedication to staying true to its name and roots, ensuring a delightful and speedy dining experience.
Address: Enterprise Rd, Fairland, Randburg, 2030
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Contact: 011 478 7182
9. Ottoman Palace Turkish Restaurant
Ottoman Palace is an upscale Turkish restaurant located within a stunning Turkish mosque in Midrand.
Diners can explore the beautiful building and admire its unique architecture while enjoying a menu that offers a wide selection of authentic Turkish dishes.
Address: Nizamiye Masjid, Le Roux Ave, Pretoria Main Rd, &, Midrand, 1685
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Contact: 074 337 3490
10. Sofra Istanbul Florida
Sofra Istanbul offers an authentic Turkish dining experience with a diverse menu that includes traditional grills, desserts, and an array of vegetarian options.
The restaurant is fully Halaal, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their meals with confidence. In addition to their extensive menu, Sofra Istanbul also features daily chef specials, adding an element of surprise and variety to every visit. Guests are encouraged to inquire about these specials for a taste of something truly unique.
Address: 245 Florida Rd, Berea, Durban, 4001
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Contact: 031 303 2285
11. Turkish Döner Haus – Bo Kaap
Located in the vibrant Bo Kaap neighbourhood, Turkish Döner Haus is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Turkish street food. The ultimate destination for a perfect Döner, but what’s a Döner, you ask? Imagine this: thinly sliced, golden-hazel meat, spit-roasted to perfection, drenched in four ultra-secret signature sauces, and packed with your choice of fillings. All of this is wrapped snugly in freshly baked, in-house Turkish bread, creating a delicious Döner like no other.
To complete your meal, choose from their unique range of Turkish teas, frappes, or milkshakes for a truly memorable taste experience
Address: Shop 2, 102 Wale St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, 8001
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Contact: 073 600 3648
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Feature image: Unsplash
