The Istanbul Turkish Restaurant on Essex Street, Fremantle has been around for 17 years - 12 years with the present owner. The longevity of this establishment is testament to its winning formula of great tasting food at a good price, with just a little bit extra.
Welcoming entrance to Istanbul
Situated off South Terrace and the main strip of Fremantle, Istanbul is a great way to start your evening. The restaurant is BYO and corkage is a reasonable $3.50. The mixed dips start at around $6 for a small serving. Add some delicious Turkish bread for $5 and you've got a fantastic share starter. I can recommend the refreshing cucumber, mint, yoghurt and garlic dip, but they are all flavoursome. For something a little bit different, try a trio combination of the cucumber, beetroot and eggplant or if you are feeling like playing it safe, there is also hummus. The pides are also very yummy and the kid's aren't forgotten - there is a kid's menu, consisting of four dishes which are all around the $12 mark. No fish and chips or toasties, but if your kids have a more sophisticated palate, they will love the spicy aromatic offerings.
The restaurant itself
Meals range from around $11 to $25, and again there is a large selection to choose from as the restaurant caters for vegetarians as well. Plus there are sweets, including the traditional Turkish fair - baklava and of course Turkish delight. Apart from the well priced meals (and here is the part you have been waiting for) that little bit extra includes belly dancing on a Friday and Saturday night!
I have been to Istanbul several times, and enjoyed the food and entertainment. There is an alcove (at the furtherest end of the restaurant) where you can sit on cushions on the floor. This is a great way to really get into the spirit of the Istanbul experience.
I love the cheap and cheerful aspect of the Istanbul Turkish Restaurant. You can take the kids or leave them at home for the night and go bar hopping, starting out with a well priced meal to get your evening rolling. For those on a budget it's a very affordable dining experience and for those who just love the flavours of Turkish food, this restaurant is a must.
The Istanbul has a take-away menu and also does catering. They do not have a website, but they are pretty easy to find - right in the heart of Fremantle.
Give it a go you won't be disappointed.
