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Whenever assembling a roll of London’s best eateries, one might anticipate renowned award-winning names. But, situated prominently among these culinary giants is a modest salonu found in a outlying part of north London.

A Surprise Accolade

The little Turkish spot, specialising in the culinary delights of Mersin, a metropolis on Turkey’s southern coast, has been declared the 4th finest restaurant in the metropolis by a prominent gastronomic guide. The accolade has left the family utterly surprised.

“I am completely astonished,” states a owner’s son, alluding to his parents’ hard graft that culminated in their modest restaurant achieving such a high spot on a notable 99-strong list.

The Character of Simplicity

This compact space, which used to be a basic cafe before its conversion into a popular destination, has maintained much of its original character. It seats just over 20 people and, aside from the dazzling live cooking show, the layout remains largely unchanged. “It is a compact and cozy place,” says the owner.

The Signature Creation: Tantuni

However, it’s all down to the fare, and this eatery definitely delivers. The eatery’s namesake dish, tantuni, is a straightforward pleasure. The meat—either lamb or chicken—is prepared via steaming to preserve a moist, juicy consistency.

It is then thrown into a massive pan with spices and oil, which are incorporated in slowly. Once the meaty mixture heats through, homemade lavaş—a thin, flexible bread—is placed on top to absorb all the juices. Thinly sliced onions and a handful of parsley go inside before the flavourful meat is rolled tightly inside.

The wrap is typically enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon or some tangy accompaniments. The final product is a mighty punch of flavour, with gentle hints of sumac, punchy onions and red, paprika-infused oil bringing it all in harmony.

Other Than the Basic Tantuni

There is also yoğurtlu tantuni, where the savoury lavaş is chopped and crowned with yogurt, tomato sauce and aromatic brown butter. The prominent food critic called this dish “a part of London’s few flawless, impeccable dishes”.

For dessert, the restaurant’s künefe is a delight. It is coated in lighter syrup than usual, giving it a deeper, toastier and not overly sweet taste.

Surpassing the Stars

Remarkably, this modest spot has been placed higher than several illustrious three-Michelin-starred venues. It finds itself near the top of the list, just after other esteemed dining destinations.

Whereas two people could easily leave this place satisfied for under £25, equivalent tasting menus at top-tier establishments can start at many times that figure.

The Creed of Heart

The restaurant is also among several Turkish restaurants included and is found well outside the city’s prime zones. “It is not focused on luxury. London is an expensive city. It is expectation that in an expensive place you’re going to have the best service and best food but I don’t agree with that,” says the owner.

“In my view what is crucial is hospitality, kindness and somewhere you can be yourself and feel calm.”

The view is supported by the list’s curator, who remarked that if he were in a position of authority, he would “make it mandatory to make every chef in London come to this restaurant as a masterclass, to show them the dangers of overthinking, and to reveal what is attainable if you do a few – or three – things to their utmost best”.

The Path of Dedication

Unlike most chefs running kitchens in the list’s top ten, the mastermind behind the food didn’t work at fancy restaurants. “I am really pleased of our restaurant and our mum,” concludes her son.

Many restaurants need years to establish themselves, but this eatery first started seven years ago. Its popularity is due to tireless, seven-day weeks of dedication.

“My mum would be extremely tired. She would go shopping in the morning and make the food in the afternoon. Each item is prepared manually; she would manage all of this. She is a solo parent and she managed a social life but her friends would come here to help her. She was raising children and a house to care for as well. Each of these responsibilities forged her into what she is now: a remarkable person,” he reflects.

A Accomplishment for the Community

This restaurant’s accolade is bound to resonate beyond its own doors. “I think many people would be pleased, as I am, because the Turkish community is a significant part of London,” concludes the owner, highlighting the wider significance of this culinary triumph.