Take a trip with your taste buds to the Middle East while you are right here in the heart of the Mother City.
EatStanbul restaurant (we see what they have done here) is easy to spot on Kloof Street.
The doors open up to mosque-printed wallpaper which transports dining patrons all the way to the streets of Istanbul.
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The wallpaper begets the Turkish historical and religious temple – Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. The mosque comes to life through the walls of the cosy restaurant.

This massive print of the former Greek Orthodox church brings a flair to the Middle Eastern aesthetic. Cape Town has the Table Mountain, Turkey has the Hagia Sophia.
Combined, they will have you convinced thinking of reasons why the site has interchanged between a mosque and museum countless times while creating an authentic Middle East experience at the same time.
Eat your heart out
The starter options here are a lot, served hot or cold, the choice is yours. Try the lentil soup (Cobra V), or opt for the falafel or humus EatStanbul style.
The traditional bread selection here can get you carried away, be careful not to fill up on it and miss out on the real deal, the main course.
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Now for the main event, this sort of dining is serious business so best choose wisely for the ultimate taste of Turkey here. The traditional selections on offer are ingeniously named in both English and Turkish – granting you the opportunity to the language.
The pide (flat bread) options accommodate the carb-lovers and will not leave you disappointed.
Try the popular Adana kebab named after kebab central, of course. The dish comes with beef or chicken options so you can pick the best one for you.
Share a platter to enjoy sis kebabs and kofta, beef, chicken and lamb in one serving. As mentioned, the choices here are endless.

The Beyti Sarma is the not-so-conventional kebab wrap with cheese. It comes with yoghurt and fries on the side.
Experience lamb chisa nyama Turkey style by having a dig at the Pirzola that comes with a generous serving of four chops, chips and rice. That can take you closer to home as a reminder of the tastiness of our own Karoo lamb and the flavours of the East, what could possibly go wrong?
Search the menu for more delightful dishes; we are certain you will pick one that will delight you and transport you over the seas and back, visa-free.
- Location: 64 Kloof Sreet, Gardens
- Bookings: 021 422 1989
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Picture: EatStanbul / Instagram