Topkapi Palace was established in Deansgate in 1979 and over the decades has become known as one of Manchester's most successful restaurants. As a family run business, the restaurant has had deacdes of experience in serving traditional Turkish food and drinks. At the helm is renowned chef Seref Dursun and he directs a menu full of locally-sourced ingredients that the restaurants promises are prepared with care and love.
Inside the restaurant, diners will find dark wood interiors, plenty of pale browns and natural colours, as well as some traditional Turkish decor that adds a hint of colour and a cosy, homely ambience. This ambience is only helped by Topkapi's open kitchen that gives guests the opportunity to see the chef's live in action and ask any questions about the preparation of ingredients.
All the starters on the menu are served with a pitta bread and the menu is split into hot and cold options. Cold plates include humus, cacik and ispanak tarator - all perfect for dipping fresh pitta into - and if you're looking to share, you can choose the lux meze (either hot or cold) which includes a selection of the different dishes for a real taste of Turkish cuisine.
The main courses are split into the meat that takes centre stage, with kebabs, koftes and doner meat all served with rice and salad. Lamb, chicken, seafood and vegetarian meals are all available and are coated in Turkish spices or served with special homemade sauces. If you're finding it hard to pick a main, guests can opt for one of the mixed charcoal grills for a range of meats and cooking techniques.
Traditional desserts are listed alongside some more common options like cheesecake and chocolate fudge cake. However, if you're too full for pudding diners can enjoy an after-dinner cocktail from their signature cocktail menu.