Istanbul Meze Bar

Given its low profile & nondescript location, it’s pretty remarkable that the Istanbul Meze Bar has stayed afloat in these troubled times. But it thrives because the rustic Turkish surrounds conjure up sunshine trips out east, & service is beguilingly accommodating. The cooking also strikes a familiar note, with all the usual Cypriot-influenced dishes present: here you will find assorted mezze (from deep-fried squid in batter to stuffed vine leaves), plus an array of mains taking in popular skewers of spiced minced lamb, mixed grills & imam bayildi – a messy but delicious vegetarian dish of stuffed aubergine. For those in party mood, there’s a downstairs wine bar with frequent live music nights, while warm weather means plenty of competition for the pavement tables.