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Istanbul Mediterranean Grill
Master Critic Review
Istanbul Mediterranean Grill
7.8
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Quick Bites Champions
Istanbul Mediterranean Grill just off Fulton Street focuses on Turkish kebabs, gyros and house-baked breads in a small, friendly dining room. Portions are generous, and reviewers consistently call out the Adana kebab, Iskender and kunefe dessert as standouts for casual Downtown Brooklyn dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adana Kebab Platter, Iskender Kebab, Kunefe Dessert
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Turkish staples like Adana and Iskender kebabs served with warmth in Downtown Brooklyn.
Who should go: Downtown workers and residents craving hearty kebab or gyro dinners.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or early weekends before the room fills.
What to order: Adana or Iskender kebab with salads, then kunefe for dessert.
Insider tip: Ask if the chef can build you a mixed grill to sample multiple kebabs on one platter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots nearby during the day, difficult after 6pm. Several paid garages within a 2–3 block walk.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and workday attire all fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate — steady background chatter but still easy to hold a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak hours without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel, vegetable kebabs, salads, mezzes, and rice-based plates
Vegan options: Limited — falafel, hummus, salads, and some vegetable sides
Gluten-free options: Partial — grilled meats and rice plates are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure first date than a romantic one — it’s relaxed, affordable, and easy, but not especially intimate or atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, most of the time — it’s primarily walk-in friendly, especially on weeknights and during lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — straightforward grilled meats, rice, and pita make it easy for kids, and the casual setup works well for families.
Best For
Better for: Hearty Turkish comfort food at an affordable price, fast service, and reliable kebabs without the Downtown Brooklyn price premium.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale Mediterranean dining, a romantic vibe, or advanced meze-driven menus — this is more about quick, filling classics than finesse.