Name: Saray Restaurant review : a Turkish delight
Item: Saray Restaurant
Author: Feroz Shaik

Located in the Clock Tower building at the V&A Waterfront, Saray brings authentic Turkish food to Cape Town. This fully Halaal restaurant is known for its excellent food and vibrant atmosphere, transporting diners on a journey to the heart of Istanbul.

SABEELA HENDRICKS and SAAQUIB MODACK visited Turkish restaurant Saray and share their dining experience:

Upon arriving at the restaurant, one can expect to be immersed in a world of colour and culture. The ambiance at Saray was inviting and cosy, evoking the charm of a traditional Turkish taverna. The dimly lit space created a warm and welcoming atmosphere, setting the stage for an experience of relaxation and conversation over food. The décor, with its ornate lanterns, mosaic tiles, and other handicrafts added a sense of authenticity to the restaurant, allowing diners to experience the rich history and traditions of Turkish craftsmanship.

This artisanship is extended to the culinary sphere, as Saray’s dishes are testament to the aromatic nature of Turkish cuisine. The restaurant’s menu is extensive, allowing diners to indulge in a meal that meets their dietary requirements and desires. As a starter meal for a table of three, we ordered two Pide’s (Turkish pizzas). The boat-shaped flatbreads were topped with our choice of protein (beef and chicken), sautéed mushrooms and a thick layer of melted cheese. The pizza’s crusts were perfectly baked, producing a crisp exterior that complemented the soft, doughy centre. The Pide’s also paired well with the complimentary garlic, chilli and mayo condiments.

As one of our main meals, we ordered the Tavuk Sis – a dish consisting of grilled chicken pieces served with a side of rice, chips and colourful shreds of vinaigrette salad. If you are a less adventurous foodie, and you find comfort in simple flavours, we recommend this meal. However, if you are open to indulging in more distinct and traditional dishes, the Et Cokertme Kebab and Karides Guvec are two perfect choices.

The Tavuk Sis consists of grilled chicken pieces served with a side of rice, chips and colourful shreds of vinaigrette salad. (Photo SAAQUIB MODACK)

The Et Cokertme Kebab included the traditional Turkic element of yoghurt as its base, followed by layers of shredded potato, beef fillet strips, and three slices of fresh garlic bread while the Karides Guvec was a spicy shrimp dish cooked in a rich tomato sauce containing mushrooms and peppers. The dish was topped with cheese and served in a flaming clay pot with a side of freshly baked bread. The robust flavours and colourful presentations of these two traditional meals are worth noting! Every detail, from the choice of garnish to the arrangement of the food, was executed with precision, enhancing our overall dining experience.

The service at Saray was impeccable, reflecting the warm hospitality for which Turkey is renowned. Despite the restaurant being at full capacity during our visit, our food arrived within reasonable time after we placed our order. The waiters were friendly and helpful, always approaching our table with a smile. The restaurant’s diverse menu and lively atmosphere makes it a perfect space to enjoy time with both friends and family.

With a dining experience fit for royalty, Saray’s prices are slightly higher than your average restaurant. However, when one considers the restaurant’s location, portion sizes and their quality of food, every dish offers excellent value for money. What sets Saray apart is certainly their unwavering commitment to consistency. Whether dining on a quieter weekday or a bustling weekend, we have never been disappointed in the restaurant’s food or service.

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Saray takes diners on a delectable journey through the history and flavour of Turkish cuisine, offering a rich tapestry of dishes that reflect the country’s diverse heritage and unique culinary traditions. For anyone seeking an authentic taste of Istanbul in the heart of Cape Town, Saray is a must-visit destination that earns an overall rating of 9/10.

Our reviews are written independently and all meals are paid for. The establishments reviewed are all halaal certified, unless stated otherwise.

The Review