Ezme
With the sadness that came with the closure of
Oishii, there was in equal part a warm welcome to the arrival of Zara’s, a new Turkish place. Well, I say new, but it’s more just a case of the
Turkish Kitchen having moved from round the corner to newly refit premises.
The place is really smart and the welcome is just as friendly as at the previous place. I was seated in a window seat during a busy evening service.
Manti
The menu is extensive and it took me a good while to weave my way through it. I eventually hit upon two main courses that I wanted: manti (a stuffed pasta not a million miles away from ravioli); and iskender (doner meat served in tomato sauce with yoghurt and bread), so I asked if I could have a small portion of manti as a starter. They were more than happy to comply with this request.
First to arrive was traditional fresh bread served with ezme, a tomato and pepper paste. It was completely glorious, with beautifully fresh zing to the dip.
Iskender
The manti promptly followed and was rather tasty, too. I enjoyed the iskender too, with the meat packed with flavour. I was very happy with both courses.
So overall, Zara’s maintains the standard previously on offer at the Turkish Kitchen and delivers it in a revamped and refreshed setting. I’d be happy to recommend you pay it a visit next time you’re looking for a taste of Turkey.
Scores
Blythe scores Zara’s
4/5 for food
3.5/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for service
4/5 for setting
giving an overall 15/20
I ate: ezme and pide, manti, iskender
I drank: Efes, water, Turkish coffee
I wore: brown suit
Total bill: £26.50
