Stepping into Istanbul Kebab in Melrose Arch felt like being transported to another world—a world where sophistication meets vibrant Turkish culture.
The restaurant is massive, and my first impression was simply “wow.” From the moment I walked in, I was in awe of the stunning décor.
Everywhere I looked, there was greenery—lush plants hanging from the roof and delicate touches of flowers that gave the space a fresh and inviting feel.
Indoors, I was captivated by the black marble walls, dark green couches, and touches of yellow LED lighting that added a warm glow to the atmosphere. The pink and white cherry blossoms scattered throughout were the cherry on top, making the whole space feel whimsical yet elegant.
As I had requested, we were seated outside, and I couldn’t have been happier with the choice. The outdoor area was just as gorgeous, with ample seating, cozy couches, and a beautiful dark green marble table where we could soak in the day’s warmth. The umbrellas and hanging greenery created a cozy, natural vibe, making it the perfect spot to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
The energy of the restaurant matched the aesthetic. When we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. Even though it was early—just after the restaurant opened at 11 am—the staff was fully prepared, making us feel welcomed and cared for from the start.
Turkish music played softly in the background, setting the mood and adding an authentic touch. As the day went on, more people arrived, bringing the space to life. Families, friends, and couples filled the tables, each creating their own little moments of joy within this stunning space.
Our server, Kudzy, truly elevated the experience. She was friendly, attentive, and so knowledgeable about the menu. Not only did she make great recommendations, but she also took the time to explain the tapas and dishes in detail, which was super helpful.
She kept our table spotless and made sure everything arrived warm and perfectly timed. Service like that makes all the difference, and I couldn’t have asked for better.
Now let’s talk about the real highlight of the day—the food. We kicked things off with drinks that were as beautiful as they were refreshing. I went for a virgin Strawberry Daiquiri, while my friend chose a virgin Mojito. Both drinks were presented beautifully and tasted amazing, the perfect start to what was shaping up to be an unforgettable meal.
For mains, my friend ordered the Istanbul Mix Plate for one, which was a true feast. It came with a mix of chargrilled meats, including chicken chops, lamb chops, beef kofta, and beef döner.
Each bite was tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. To complement the plate, it came with an array of vibrant tapas—eggplant, tzatziki, chili, hummus, and bean salad. The combination of flavors and textures was incredible. My friend couldn’t stop raving about how perfectly everything was cooked.
For my meal, I decided to try the Mixed Pide, which is essentially a long Turkish pizza. The best part? I got to choose three flavors! I went with Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese, and it was everything I hoped for.
The crust was soft yet crispy, the cheese was deliciously stretchy, and the flavors were so well balanced. Every bite felt like comfort food at its finest. It was filling, flavorful, and exactly what I needed to make the day even better.
But of course, no meal is complete without dessert, and we couldn’t leave without trying the signature Istanbul Kebab Baklava. This was something so many people had recommended, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. We decided to share two variations—the Cold Baklava and the Harput Baklava. The Cold Baklava was soft, rich, and packed with flavor, while the Harput Baklava was served with fresh vanilla ice cream sandwiched between crispy layers of pastry. The combination of warm, crispy pastry and cold, creamy ice cream was divine. My friend paired his dessert with warm apple tea, which he said tasted exactly like biting into a fresh apple. The perfect way to end such a satisfying meal.
As I sat there, taking in the gorgeous surroundings and indulging in the delicious food, I couldn’t help but feel impressed by how much attention to detail went into everything at Istanbul Kebab. The décor was sophisticated yet inviting, with the perfect blend of greenery, marble, and warm lighting to create an ambiance that was both elegant and comfortable. Even though we didn’t try it, I noticed some of the other diners enjoying hookah, which added another layer of cultural authenticity to the experience.
Istanbul Kebab is the kind of place that caters to everyone. Whether you’re looking for a spot for a casual lunch, a romantic date night, or a group celebration, this restaurant has you covered. The spacious layout and cozy seating make it ideal for hosting any occasion, and the staff’s friendly attitude ensures that you’ll feel welcome no matter what.
Would I return? Absolutely. In fact, I’m already planning my next visit. There’s so much more I want to try, like the Chicken Fillet Kebab and the Falafel Wrap, and of course, I’ll be ordering more Baklava because one round just isn’t enough.
If you’re in Joburg and looking for a place that combines incredible food, stunning décor, and a warm, inviting vibe, Istanbul Kebab in Melrose Arch is a must-visit. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.
Have you been to Istanbul Kebab? Let me know what your favorite dish was—I’m always looking for recommendations for my next visit!
Chanzel xx
