Boston’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors from around the world, and Turkish cuisine holds a special place in this vibrant mosaic.
Known for its rich history and diverse influences, Turkish food offers a delightful blend of savory spices, fresh ingredients, and time-honored cooking techniques.
Whether you’re craving succulent kebabs, flavorful mezes, or sweet baklava, Boston has no shortage of top-notch Turkish restaurants to satisfy your palate.
From cozy, family-run eateries to upscale dining experiences, these seven Turkish restaurants stand out for their authentic dishes and welcoming atmospheres.
Each spot brings a unique taste of Turkey to the heart of Boston, ensuring a memorable dining experience for both newcomers and seasoned food lovers.
Ready to embark on a culinary journey through the best Turkish spots in the city? Let’s dive in.
Top 7 Best Turkish Restaurants in Boston
Boston offers a diverse range of dining options, and Turkish cuisine is no exception.
Here are the top 7 Turkish restaurants in Boston where you can enjoy authentic and delicious Turkish dishes:
1. Turkish Lazuri Cafe
Turkish Lazuri Cafe, located at 487 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02134, is a top-rated Turkish restaurant with a remarkable 4.6-star rating based on 715 reviews.
Known for its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu, this cafe offers both dine-in and takeout options, making it an ideal choice for both casual meals and special occasions.
Patrons rave about their authentic dishes, including succulent kebabs, flavorful mezes, and sweet baklava. The cafe’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods sets it apart.
Open from 10 AM, Turkish Lazuri Cafe ensures every meal is crafted to perfection. For reservations or online orders, visit lazuricafe.com or call (617) 208-8575.
2. Boston Doner
Boston Doner, located at 55 Causeway St, Boston, MA 02114, is a must-visit Turkish restaurant. With a 4.4-star rating from 623 reviews, this eatery is known for its authentic flavors and inviting atmosphere. It’s a great spot for those seeking a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine.
Boston Doner’s menu features a variety of dishes including kebabs, mezes, and baklava, offering an expansive selection for both dine-in and takeaway orders.
They also provide convenient options such as curbside pickup and no-contact delivery, ensuring a safe and seamless experience for all customers.
The restaurant opens at 10:30 AM, making it ideal for early lunch diners. For more details, visit bostondoner.com or call (617) 523-3000.
3. Istanbul Diner Cafe
Istanbul Diner Cafe, located at 120 Veterans Of Foreign Wars Pkwy, Revere, MA 02151, boasts a stellar 4.8-star rating from 2,167 reviews.
This intimate counter-serve eatery specializes in Turkish favorites like kebabs and shawarma. Patrons can choose from dine-in, curbside pickup, or no-contact delivery options, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Opening at 11 AM, the restaurant ensures accessibility for both lunch and dinner. Popular for its authentic Turkish dishes, Istanbul Diner Cafe has a user-friendly online menu at orderonlinemenu.com. For more details, visit their website istanbuldinercafe.com or call (781) 289-4249.
4. Anatolia Kebab House
Anatolia Kebab House, located at 305 Washington St, Brookline, MA 02445, offers hearty Turkish and Mediterranean dishes and boasts a 4.2-star rating from 843 reviews.
The restaurant provides dine-in, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery, with specialties including kebabs. It opens daily at 10 AM.
For reservations or online orders, visit anatoliaofficial.com or call (617) 277-4466. Additionally, their menu features delicious options like lamb shish kebabs, freshly baked pita, and authentic baklava, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Not far from Anatolia Kebab House, you’ll find Saray Restaurant at 1098 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, another top-rated gem.
Known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, it boasts a 4.5-star rating and is particularly famous for its delicious manti and mouth-watering kunefe.
Saray offers a cozy atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating options, as well as takeout and delivery services.
Don’t miss out on their extensive menu which includes a variety of vegetarian options to cater to all dietary preferences.
5. Pasha Turkish Cuisine
Pasha Turkish Cuisine, found at 669A Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, MA 02476, is a delightful spot for Turkish and Mediterranean specialties.
With a commendable 4.2-star rating from 503 reviews, this restaurant offers a low-key, inviting atmosphere enhanced by traditional decor.
Patrons can enjoy dine-in, curbside pickup, and delivery options. Opening daily at 12 PM, Pasha provides a flexible dining experience.
Their menu boasts a variety of dishes, ranging from classic kebabs to rich mezzes. Guests can explore their offerings and place orders online at pashaturkish.com or call (781) 648-5888.
For those seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience, Pasha presents a perfect blend of comfort and cuisine.
6. Istanbul Doner Burrito
Nestled in the heart of Boston at 350 Longwood Ave, Istanbul Doner Burrito stands out with a stellar 4.9-star rating from 271 reviews.
This Halal restaurant offers a unique fusion of Turkish and Mexican cuisines, specializing in doner kebabs wrapped burrito-style.
Their menu includes options for dine-in, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery, ensuring convenience for all customers.
The establishment identifies as Black-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly, women-owned, and Latino-owned. Patrons appreciate the inclusive atmosphere and exceptional service.
Located on the first floor of Longwood Galleria, it opens daily at 11 AM. Customers can explore the diverse menu and place orders online via order.toasttab.com.
7. Istanbul’lu
Istanbul’lu, located at 237 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144, offers authentic Turkish cuisine in a cozy and informal setting.
Rated 4.2 stars by 424 reviewers, this charming eatery is temporarily closed but known for its Turkish specialties and all-day breakfasts, which draw in both locals and visitors.
The intimate atmosphere and informal decor make it a popular spot for relaxed dining. The menu features rich Turkish delicacies, with standout all-day breakfasts.
Conveniently situated in Somerville, more information can be found on their website at istanbul-lu.com or by calling (617) 440-7387.
For an unforgettable dining experience, be sure to check their website for reopening dates. Next on the list is Sarma at 249 Pearl St, Somerville, MA 02145. This vibrant restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Turkish dishes, boasting a lively ambiance with a menu designed for sharing.
Highly praised for its innovative approach, Sarma has become a favorite among food enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful culinary adventures. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
Foods You Will Get in the Turkish Restaurants in Boston
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and unique culinary traditions. When dining at Turkish restaurants in Boston, you can expect to find a variety of delectable dishes that showcase the best of this vibrant cuisine.
Here’s a guide to some of the most popular foods you might encounter:
Mezes (Appetizers)
Hummus is a creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, typically served with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
Baba Ganoush, a smoky and flavorful dip, is made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, and is usually enjoyed with pita or as part of a meze platter.
Dolma features grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and spices, and sometimes includes ground meat for added savor.
Cacik is a refreshing yogurt-based dip mixed with cucumbers, garlic, and fresh dill or mint, providing a cooling contrast to spicier dishes.
Main Dishes
Kebabs in Turkish cuisine come in various forms, including shish kebabs, which are marinated meat grilled on skewers; döner kebabs, which are spiced meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie; and Adana kebabs, which are spicy minced meat skewers.
Pide, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is a flatbread topped with ingredients like minced meat, cheese, vegetables, and eggs, baked until crispy and served in a boat-shaped presentation.
Lahmacun is a thin, round flatbread topped with a mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and spices, served with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
Manti are Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, usually lamb or beef, and served with a garlic yogurt sauce and melted butter, garnished with sumac and paprika.
Köfte are Turkish meatballs made from ground meat mixed with spices, herbs, and sometimes bulgur, grilled or pan-fried, and served with rice, vegetables, or in a pita.
Side Dishes
Pilaf, a Turkish rice dish, is often cooked with spices and may include nuts, vegetables, or meat, providing a flavorful accompaniment to main dishes. Sautéed vegetables, such as green beans, artichokes, or eggplants cooked in olive oil with tomatoes and herbs, are featured in dishes like zeytinyağlı, which offer a fresh and tasty side option.
Breads
Pita is a type of flatbread ideal for scooping up dips and enjoying with various mezes. Lavas is a traditional Turkish flatbread, often served warm, used to wrap kebabs or accompany dips.
Desserts
Baklava is a sweet pastry made from layers of thin filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, offering a rich and indulgent treat.
Kunefe, made from shredded filo dough layered with cheese or cream, is baked until crispy and soaked in sweet syrup.
Sütlaç, a Turkish rice pudding, is made from rice, milk, sugar, and sometimes flavored with vanilla or rose water, providing a creamy and comforting dessert.
Beverages
Turkish tea, served in small tulip-shaped glasses, is strong and aromatic, often enjoyed with a cube of sugar.
Ayran, a cold yogurt-based drink mixed with water and a pinch of salt, offers a refreshing and tangy flavor that complements spicy dishes.
Turkish coffee, known for its strong and rich flavor, is brewed with finely ground coffee beans and typically served with a piece of Turkish delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pasha Turkish Cuisine located?
Pasha Turkish Cuisine is located in Arlington, MA. It’s known for offering traditional Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with various dining options.
What types of cuisines does Istanbul Doner Burrito offer?
Istanbul Doner Burrito in Boston offers a fusion of Turkish and Mexican cuisines, boasting a remarkable 4.9-star rating.
Is Istanbul’lu in Somerville currently open?
As of the latest update, Istanbul’lu in Somerville, MA, is temporarily closed. However, it is known for its authentic Turkish cuisine and charming atmosphere.
What can I expect from the brunch menu at Istanbul’lu?
When it reopens, Istanbul’lu will offer delightful brunch options that include a range of traditional Turkish breakfast items, providing a relaxed and welcoming dining experience.
What are some popular Turkish dishes available in Boston’s Turkish restaurants?
Boston’s Turkish restaurants offer a diverse range of traditional dishes including meze platters, kebabs, pide, lahmacun, baklava, kofte, and manti, each bringing a unique and flavorful taste of Turkish cuisine.
How do I find the best Turkish restaurants in Boston?
To find the best Turkish restaurants in Boston, consider their online ratings and reviews. High-star ratings from users can guide you to the most popular spots.
Are there any fusion Turkish food options in Boston?
Yes, Istanbul Doner Burrito is a standout option, offering a unique fusion of Turkish and Mexican cuisines, providing an exciting twist on traditional dishes.
Conclusion
For anyone in Boston craving authentic Turkish cuisine, there’s no shortage of incredible options. Each restaurant offers a distinct experience, from Pasha Turkish Cuisine’s traditional fare to Istanbul Doner Burrito’s unique fusion dishes.
Whether customers seek delightful mezes, savory kebabs, or delectable desserts like baklava, Boston’s Turkish restaurants have something to tantalize every palate.
So, explore these culinary gems and savor the rich, flavorful taste of Turkey right in the heart of Boston. Dive into these top picks for an unforgettable dining experience.
Enjoy the authentic ambiance of Saray Turkish Restaurant, or the modern twist offered by Simit + Smith. Each spot promises a memorable meal.
While Sofra Bakery & Café offers an array of pastries that transport you to the streets of Istanbul, Oleana’s innovative cuisine combines Turkish flavors with local ingredients. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit these culinary havens and indulge in a diverse range of tastes.
Timothy Russell Dewart