The first Turkish settlers in the UK arrived in the 16th century, after Queen Elizabeth I built an allyship with the Ottoman Empire. Since then, London has embraced Turkish cuisine with open arms. From elegant restaurants and Michelin-recommended eateries to humbler grill spots, the essence of Türkiye’s culinary heritage thrives in the capital. Our favourites stand out thanks to their thoughtful sourcing of fresh ingredients, dedication to constructing dishes from scratch, and commitment to what sits at the very heart of Turkish culture: generous hospitality. The history of modern-day Türkiye is a captivating saga that has witnessed the rise and fall of many civilisations, including the Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Given the centuries of culinary exchange it witnessed, it’s no surprise that Turkish cuisine mirrors the nation’s diverse heritage. As a foodie who has spent half of her life in Türkiye and the other in London, here are the very best Turkish restaurants in the capital, ranging from Green Lanes heroes and Soho gems to east London powerhouses.

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Beril Naz Hassan is a British journalist with Turkish and Cypriot heritage. After living in Türkiye for over a decade, Beril returned to London, where she writes about food, travel and lifestyle.