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When compiling a ranking of London’s finest eateries, one might anticipate renowned Michelin-starred establishments. However, situated high among these gastronomic titans is a unpretentious salonu located in a outlying part of northern London.

A Unexpected Accolade

The little Turkish eatery, focusing in the specialties of Mersin, a port city on Turkey’s south coast, has been crowned the fourth finest restaurant in the capital by a prominent gastronomic guide. This accolade has made the family utterly astonished.

“I am utterly shocked,” says a family member, referring to his parents’ dedication that resulted in their small place achieving such a lofty spot on a prestigious 99-strong list.

The Appeal of Simplicity

This small shop, which started as a basic cafe before its change into a buzzing destination, has retained much of its former feel. It accommodates just over 20 people and, aside from the vibrant live cooking show, the interior remains mostly unchanged. “It is a small and stocky place,” notes the owner.

The Namesake Creation: Tantuni

Ultimately, it’s all about the cuisine, and this eatery certainly succeeds. The eatery’s eponymous dish, tantuni, is a uncomplicated delight. Choice of meat—lamb or lamb or chicken—is steamed to maintain a moist, juicy texture.

The meat is then added into a large pan with flavours and oil, which are mixed in slowly. Once the meaty mixture heats through, handmade lavaş—a pliable bread—is laid on top to absorb all the flavours. Thinly sliced onions and a sprinkling of parsley are added before the flavourful meat is folded tightly inside.

It is often consumed with a drop of lemon or some pickles. The final product is a powerful slap of flavour, with subtle hints of sumac, punchy onions and spicy, paprika-laced oil pulling it all in harmony.

Other Than the Classic Tantuni

Patrons can also try yoğurtlu tantuni, where the savoury lavaş is chopped and crowned with yogurt, tomato sauce and aromatic brown butter. The prominent food critic described this dish “among London’s few ideal, faultless dishes”.

When it comes to dessert, the restaurant’s künefe proves a delight. It is doused in less syrup than is typical, giving it a richer, nuttier and less sickly flavour.

Outranking the Titans

Notably, this unassuming restaurant has ranked above several renowned three-Michelin-starred venues. It finds itself near the peak of the list, just after other high-profile dining destinations.

While two people could easily leave the restaurant stuffed for below £25, comparable meals at luxury establishments can cost many times that amount.

A Ethos of Hospitality

It is also one of several Turkish restaurants featured and is situated well beyond the city’s most expensive zones. “It’s not about luxury. London is an costly city. There is an belief that in an expensive place you’re going to have the finest service and best food but I do not subscribe to that,” says the owner.

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

This philosophy is shared by the list’s compiler, who remarked that if he was in a role of power, he would “make it mandatory to make every chef in London visit this spot as a finishing school, to show them the pitfalls of overthinking, and to demonstrate what is possible if you do a few – or three – things to their absolute best”.

A Journey of Dedication

In contrast to many chefs heading kitchens in the list’s top ten, the head chef behind the food did not train at elite restaurants. “I feel really proud of our restaurant and our mum,” adds her son.

A lot of restaurants need years to become successful, but this eatery first launched seven years ago. Its popularity is due to relentless, seven-day weeks of effort.

“Our mum was really tired. She would source produce in the morning and create the food in the afternoon. Everything is made by hand; she would manage all of this. She is a solo parent and she managed a life outside work but her friends would support her to help her. She had children and a house to manage as well. All of these duties shaped her into what she is now: a exceptional person,” he shares.

A Accomplishment for the People

The restaurant’s accolade is set to echo beyond its own premises. “In my opinion numerous people would be proud, as I am, because the Turkish community is a significant part of London,” notes the owner, highlighting the greater meaning of this gastronomic achievement.