10/07/07

Blah food, small servings, high prices

by willigor

Cafe Istanbul was a huge let down. The atmosphere is relaxing and the restaurant is clean. The staff was very friendly. Based on the appearance, I was looking forward to a delicious meal. I started with Ayran yogurt drink which frankly tasted like a glass of plain yogurt (my first disappointment). After a 30 minute wait for my food, I was shocked to see a plate with two TINY strips of lamb meat. I almost thought it was a joke, but that was my meal along with rice and veggies. I wouldn't recommend this place to anybody. You can find better Mediterranean food at little hole-in-the-wall markets and cafes at half the price and with larger portions. Save your money and time and look else where for a good meal. If you want to pay for overpriced, blah tasting food just to eat in a nice restaurant, then Cafe Istanbul is for you, but I will never eat there again.

• Pros: Nice atmosphere
• Cons: Below average food at high prices

02/08/06

User review by wnzdazchld

by wnzdazchld

My boyfriend & I went there for the first time on our anniversary in 2005. The decor was wonderful and the service was great. I'm a vegetarian, so there was plenty of appetizers and such to choose from. Unfortunately, my entree of grilled veggies was bland and overgrilled (black, crispy, and tasting of ash) and with a side of plain white rice. I expected a marinade or sauce of some sort, but the only condiment that was provided was plain yogurt (ewww). My bf loved his dish (some kind of beef kabob), but hated his appetizer (can't recall what it was). He was also disappointed that he was served green beans as a side dish. He daid they were overcooked. But they have the BEST rice pudding ever!!! The pudding was worth braving the tasteless entree. All in all, we will go back and try different things on the menu!

• Pros: atmosphere, service, desert
• Cons: bland veggie entrees, overcooked sides, a little pricey

12/22/05

Amzing Salted Crusted Fish!

by osugirl25

I have been to Cafe Istanbul at Easton not long ago and I ordered a salted crusted fish which was the best red snapper that I have ever had. The presentation was wonderful, our server was superior. I think everyone should try the salt crusted fish at Cafe Istanbul. There is one think you need to know, you should order the fish at least 2 days in advance. Also, they debone the fish perfectly for you. Thanks to our sever and the manager.We had a wonderful time.