Istanbul'lu

Temporarily closed

Turkish Restaurant $$ 4.2 (423)


Istanbul'lu offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with largely authentic Turkish cuisine that delights many diners. Dishes such as kebabs and baklava receive high praise for their flavors, while the cozy setting enhances the dining experience. However, some reviews mention inconsistencies in service and portion sizes, which could detract from an otherwise enjoyable meal.

Overall:

4.5

(350 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

4.1

Service:

4.2


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (617) 440-7387

Address: 237 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144, USA


Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available
  • Reservable

Offerings

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Dessert
  • Coffee
  • Vegetarian Options Available

Amenities

  • Restroom Available

Good for

  • Good for Children

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" I visited Istanbul'lu on a busy Friday evening, and despite the crowd, the service was fantastic. The ambiance is cozy yet vibrant, with traditional Turkish music playing softly in the background. I ordered various appetizers and the Adana kebab, which was bursting with flavor. The homemade bread came out warm and was the perfect accompaniment. However, I was slightly disappointed that some items I'd loved on previous visits were no longer on the menu. Overall, a great place for an authentic Turkish food experience. " (*Curated Review*)

" This restaurant is perfect if you want authentic Turkish food! The eggplant dishes are a personal favorite of mine, and they do a fantastic job with the danish type of pastries called börek. It's a family-friendly place which also manages to maintain a lovely quiet atmosphere ideal for a casual meal. The staff is super friendly and the prices are very reasonable for the quality of the food. Can't wait to go back and taste more! " (*Curated Review*)

" Such an amazing experience! My partner and I dine here often, and every time we try a different dish. The lentil soup is exquisite, and the main courses don’t disappoint either. The atmosphere is beautiful, adorned with Turkish decor, which enhances the overall experience. The only complaint I have is sometimes the wait for food can be a bit lengthy when it’s busy, but the quality and taste make it worthwhile. Love this place! " (*Curated Review*)

" I had high expectations based on previous reviews but was a bit let down. While the food was tasty, the quantity felt smaller than I anticipated, especially for the price. I ordered the lamb kabob, and although it was flavorful, it didn't quite taste as authentic as I'd hoped. The service was friendly, but we waited longer than expected for our meal to arrive. Overall, it was a decent experience, but I'm not sure if I'd rush back. " (*Curated Review*)

" Istanbul'lu has been our go-to place for Turkish food for years! The kebab platters are delightful and intricately flavored. We also love their desserts, especially the kunefe, which is a great way to end your meal. The service can sometimes be a bit slow, but the quality of food definitely makes up for it. The cozy décor makes this restaurant feel like you’re visiting someone's home, which is lovely. We can’t recommend them enough! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (340)

" I’ve tried many Turkish restaurants, and I must say, Istanbul'lu serves some of the best food I have tasted. The flavors are intense, and the service is quick. I particularly enjoyed the vegetarian options and felt they catered well to diverse diets. The atmosphere is quaint and charming, which just adds to the overall experience. I will certainly return for more! " (*Curated Review*)

" Istanbul'lu is the best Turkish spot in the area! I had the chance to try both the Iskender and the Adana kebab, and both were excellent. The flavors reminded me of my travels in Turkey. The portions were generous, and the atmosphere felt genuine. Service was quick and friendly, making it a fantastic experience overall. Definitely a place to visit if you’re in the area! " (*Curated Review*)

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