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Whenever curating a ranking of London’s finest dining spots, one might anticipate familiar award-winning establishments. However, nestled near the top among these culinary titans is a unpretentious salonu located in a outlying part of north London.

A Unexpected Recognition

The little Turkish spot, focusing in the specialties of Mersin, a metropolis on Turkey’s southern coast, has been declared the fourth finest restaurant in the metropolis by a influential gastronomic guide. The honour has left the proprietors completely surprised.

“I’m utterly surprised,” states the proprietor, pointing to his parents’ relentless work that resulted in their small restaurant achieving such a prominent spot on a prestigious 99-strong list.

A Character of Modesty

The compact space, which started as a basic cafe before its conversion into a sought-after destination, has maintained much of its original charm. It accommodates just more than 20 people and, aside from the vibrant live cooking performance, the interior remains largely unchanged. “It’s a small and stocky space,” comments the owner.

The Star Creation: Tantuni

In the end, it’s focused on the fare, and this eatery certainly excels. The restaurant’s signature dish, tantuni, is a simple joy. The meat—whether lamb or chicken—is steamed to maintain a succulent texture.

The meat is then added into a sizeable pan with spices and oil, which are incorporated in gradually. When the savoury mixture heats through, freshly made lavaş—a pliable bread—is laid on top to soak in all the aromas. Finely sliced onions and a handful of parsley are added before the tasty meat is folded neatly inside.

The wrap is typically eaten with a drizzle of lemon or some pickles. The final product is a mighty burst of flavour, with gentle hints of sumac, punchy onions and red, paprika-infused oil pulling it all in harmony.

Other Than the Classic Tantuni

There is also yoğurtlu tantuni, where the savoury lavaş is sliced and finished with yogurt, tomato sauce and aromatic brown butter. The respected food critic labelled this dish “among London’s few perfect, no-notes dishes”.

When it comes to a sweet finish, the eatery’s künefe proves a delight. It is doused in less syrup than is typical, imparting it a richer, nuttier and not overly sweet profile.

Outranking the Titans

Notably, this unassuming restaurant has ranked above several illustrious three-Michelin-starred venues. It finds itself near the peak of the list, trailing other notable dining destinations.

Whereas two people could easily leave the restaurant stuffed for under £25, similar tasting menus at top-tier establishments can start at many times that amount.

The Creed of Heart

It is also one of several Turkish restaurants listed and is located well beyond the city’s prime zones. “It’s not concerning luxury. London is an expensive city. It is expectation that in an expensive place you’re going to have the finest service and best food but I don’t agree with that,” explains the owner.

“I believe what is crucial is friendliness, a welcoming atmosphere and a place you can be yourself and feel calm.”

This philosophy is supported by the list’s compiler, who remarked that if he was in a position of authority, he would “make it mandatory to have every chef in London visit this spot as a masterclass, to teach them the traps of overthinking, and to show what is achievable if you do only a handful of – or three – things to their very best”.

A Journey of Perseverance

Unlike most chefs managing kitchens in the list’s highest ranks, the head chef behind the food did not train at fancy restaurants. “I feel really pleased of our restaurant and our mum,” says her son.

Numerous restaurants need years to establish themselves, but this one first launched seven years ago. Its popularity is due to tireless, seven-day weeks of dedication.

“My mum was really tired. She would source produce in the morning and make the food in the afternoon. All of it is handmade; she would manage all of this. She is a single mum and she balanced a personal life but her friends would visit to support her. She had children and a house to manage as well. Each of these roles shaped her into what she is now: a remarkable person,” he says.

A Accomplishment for the Culture

The restaurant’s success is likely to echo beyond its own premises. “I believe many people would be proud, as I am, because the Turkish community is a significant part of London,” notes the owner, highlighting the greater importance of this culinary honour.