Ambiance: Sat outside, despite the August heat. Overhead fans from the dark wood slatted overhang kept us relatively cool, but would probably sit inside next time. Outside patio sits along sidewalk in popular Shops at Legacy, great for people watching. Extra points: authentic Turkish music in the background. Major drawback: Located next to Twisted Root Burger Co., which announces whose order is ready by yelling the names of famous movie characters through a loud speaker. Creative but obnoxious after awhile!
Variety: Not many vegetarian options. The majority of the appetizers are vegetarian (think humus, babaganus, falafel), but only two dinner entrees qualified: Sebzeli pide (vegetarian pizza) and sebzeli guvec (vegetarian casserole).
Quality: I ordered the sebzeli guvec (pictured below) and it was AWESOME. The tomato broth was perfectly seasoned and simple, and the vegetables -- carrots, celery, green beans, potatoes -- were melt-in-your-mouth perfect. This is going to be a new comfort food for me.
I also had Kunefe for dessert (pictured below), which is described on the menu as an oven baked traditional Turkish dessert prepared with shredded wheat and Turkish sweet cheese, served on a hot plate and topped with ground walnuts. It is delicious (and of course vegetarian).
Bottom line: Poor variety but good quality. Go if you love the two vegetarian dishes or want to eat lots of appetizers.
www.cafe-istanbul.net
