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Whenever compiling a roll of London’s finest dining spots, one might anticipate familiar award-winning establishments. But, tucked high among these food titans is a modest salonu situated in a distant part of northern London.

An Shocking Accolade

This little Turkish restaurant, focusing in the culinary delights of Mersin, a metropolis on Turkey’s south coast, has been crowned the 4th finest restaurant in the city by a respected food magazine. The recognition has left the family completely astonished.

“I am completely astonished,” states a family member, pointing to his family’s dedication that resulted in their small restaurant achieving such a lofty spot on a prestigious 99-strong list.

A Character of Simplicity

This little venue, which was a basic cafe before its change into a buzzing destination, has kept much of its earlier feel. It fits just over 20 people and, aside from the vibrant live cooking display, the layout remains essentially unchanged. “It’s a small and stocky spot,” comments the owner.

The Signature Dish: Tantuni

In the end, it’s focused on the fare, and this eatery definitely delivers. The restaurant’s signature dish, tantuni, is a straightforward pleasure. Choice of meat—lamb or lamb or chicken—is steamed to keep a moist, juicy consistency.

The meat is then thrown into a massive pan with seasonings and oil, which are added in slowly. As the meaty mixture bubbles up, freshly made lavaş—a thin, flexible bread—is laid on top to soak in all the juices. Thinly sliced onions and a sprinkling of parsley are added before the tasty meat is folded tightly inside.

It is often consumed with a squeeze of lemon or some tangy accompaniments. The end result is a strong burst of flavour, with gentle hints of sumac, sharp onions and red, paprika-infused oil bringing it all together.

Other Than the Classic Tantuni

Another option is yoğurtlu tantuni, where the savoury lavaş is sliced and crowned with yogurt, tomato sauce and aromatic brown butter. A respected food critic described this dish “among London’s few ideal, faultless dishes”.

When it comes to a sweet finish, the eatery’s künefe is a delight. It is doused in less syrup than is typical, imparting it a richer, nuttier and less sickly flavour.

Rising Above the Stars

Remarkably, this unassuming spot has been placed higher than several illustrious three-Michelin-starred establishments. It finds itself near the summit of the list, following other esteemed dining destinations.

Whereas two people could readily leave the restaurant stuffed for less than £25, equivalent meals at high-end establishments can cost significantly more than that amount.

A Ethos of Hospitality

The restaurant is also among several Turkish restaurants featured and is found well beyond the city’s prime zones. “It is not concerning luxury. London is an pricey city. It is belief that in an high-cost place you’re going to have the best service and top food but I don’t subscribe to that,” explains the owner.

“In my view what is paramount is friendliness, a welcoming atmosphere and somewhere you can be yourself and feel calm.”

The philosophy is supported by the list’s curator, who stated that if he were in a position of power, he would “require to make every chef in London come to this restaurant as a final lesson, to show them the pitfalls of overcomplication, and to show what is achievable if you do a few – or three – things to their utmost best”.

The Journey of Dedication

In contrast to many chefs running kitchens in the list’s highest ranks, the mastermind behind the food did not train at elite restaurants. “I feel truly pleased of our restaurant and our mum,” concludes her son.

A lot of restaurants take years to establish themselves, but this one first opened its doors seven years ago. Its acclaim is owing to tireless, seven-day weeks of dedication.

“My mum used to be extremely tired. She would go shopping in the morning and prepare the food in the afternoon. Each item is prepared manually; she would handle all of this. She is a single mum and she managed a social life but her friends would visit to support her. She had children and a house to look after as well. All of these roles forged her into what she is now: a brilliant person,” he shares.

A Accomplishment for the Community

This restaurant’s accolade is set to echo outside its own walls. “In my opinion many people would be proud, as I am, because the Turkish community is a significant part of London,” concludes the owner, emphasising the greater meaning of this gastronomic achievement.