I'll get it out: This food was right on par with my expectations! I meant to try a new dish while there, but my eyes kept meandering back to the Shepherds Casserole. I couldn't escape the powaaaaa. Everything, from the bread and crushed red pepper oil for dipping, to the rich lamb and veggies, were luscious. The spices and seasoning CI uses are beyond "great". I am quite surprised at the size of this Cafe Istanbul. A fraction of their mothership at Easton. Don't get me wrong, I love quaintness, but I think this intimate size would start to drag me down. The front patio area is large - know wonder I was told this place is happenin come the summer months. Also, the different decor. The Easton location has art and bright hand-made pottery and plates throughout the space. This Bexley location is a lot of wood and darker tones. Completely a personal preference, however. To each their own. read more

Cafe Istanbul - Turkish Near Me - Bexley, Ohio

See all

The food is delicious at cafe Istanbul. The scenery is great too. The only drawback is that the owner/manager, Sitchel, can be unfriendly towards customers. read more

A dinner at Cafe Istanbul is always a good one. A dinner on their patio- even better. There are lots of meat dishes on the menu, which I do not eat, but speaking for the seafood and vegetables, I give them a thumbs-up! Best dish on the menu is easy to overlook because it doesn't sound like much. The vegetable turlu, a stew, has some certain spice or flavor to it that is so delicious and satisfying. You just have to try it to understand. I always think I have built it up in my mind, then I order it and it is still as good as I remember. But backing up... Each table gets a basket of fluffy, chewy, tasty bread to dip in what tastes like a roasted red pepper olive oil dip. My tip- amp it up with a side of hummus as well. While we are taking apps, I enjoy their calamari. So does my toddler, who starts smiling and asking "camari please" as soon as we get there. The service is always friendly, prompt, and attentive. The patio is a great place to relax and eat, with 2 water features, pretty stone under foot, big bright umbrellas, and fairly low noise level since Main St is only 25 mph. I have not been during lunch hours, but I have seen advertised that they have a lunch special with an appetizer, entree, and dessert for $9.95. The items on the list sound good, and include that turlu I raved about. I plan to go this summer and check it out. read more

I ordered the cheese pil- I can't remember. The bread to go, no sauce provided. Lovely surprise. The yogurt drink that I didn't receive in my delivery order, and the rice. The rice was pretty good. read more

I came here with my best friend and her 8-month old for a weekday late lunch at a weird hour, so we were only one of two parties in the restaurant. The service at this time was really great though, the server seemed happy to have some customers and got all our items out quickly. The inside is clean, well-lit, and cozy. I'd like to come back to their lovely patio out front one day too. The lunch special is a good deal for the amount of food (we each brought home a box with leftovers). The special comes with an appetizer and an entree. We ordered tabouli and baba ghanoush for our apps and they were great. The baba was smoky and the tabouli had lots of parsley and they went really well together. Each came out with piping hot little rolls too. Our entrees were tasty, but they need more vegetarian entree options at lunch time. There are two and we each ordered one - hearty vegetable stews in tomato sauces. While delicious, they were very similar. I'd come back again, but I'd come back more often if there was a falafel on there. To be fair, the dinner menu has more menu options (including falafel!). read more

Tried this place for my wife's birthday dinner as it was close to our destination. So very glad we did, our party of five all had various items on the menu and no one had any complaints at all. All the food was excellently prepared and brought out in a very timely fashion. Unlike some places that bring your main course shortly after the appetizers arrived, the timing was very good. We tried a new wine that was also very good, Yakut Kavaklodere, a very good dry red. The wait staff were all attentive and not overbearing. All in all I would highly recommend this place if you like Mediterranean food. We will definitely be back to work our way through the menu. read more

We ordered multiple appetizers and entrees and they all were served hot and fresh. The lahmacun was especially good and something I recommend as someone who has been to Turkey. Our server, Burak, was friendly and accommodating of our dining needs. They also have lovely outdoor seating in the front. read more

Stopped here on the way home from work and placed a to go order. The food came decently quick but I will say that I was expecting a bit more food. I've eaten at the Dublin location in person multiple times and have always gotten a ton of food. I got a combination entree to split and it was totally not enough food. I'd love to come here and eat on the patio because it looked so welcoming and inviting. The food we got was great, the doner meat was the star of the show for sure. I'd try this spot again and just make sure I eat there! read more

See all

Over priced And not even close to Turkish food The only good thing is their home made bread read more

I love the food here. I avoid spicy hot foods. I have discovered that Turkish cuisine is not hot like Thai or Tex-Mex. The dishes are subtly flavorful and delicious. It is more similar to French cuisine, I think, with creamy complex sauces and lovely plating. I'd skip the humus falafel and baba ganoush (which I'm told aren't that popular in Turkey). I'd suggest trying any of the lamb dishes. The lamb shanks, which are only available on weekends, are awesome. The appetizers, especially sigara borek, soups and salads are perfect. (I've been here several times now.) I noticed that some reviewers complain about the ambiance. They clearly have never been to Manhattan. If magically transported there, it would be large and inviting. They even have outdoor seating. The competition in NYC is fierce. Café Istanbul at Bexley would thrive there. read more

Good food. Bad service. No plates cleared (at one point had six plates piled up on a two seater table). I had to find the waitress and walk up to her to ask for something to dip into my hummus (getting a plate full of hummus with no veggie or bread makes zero sense). I wouldn't have had to do this if she ever checked in during the meal. read more

Good meal. Normal price. Real turkish meal. Have good turkish coffe. I recomended here.

This is an excellent restaurant on every level. Service, decor and food quality are all top rate. The food is simply delicious and I particularly like their cold eggplant onion and pepper appetizer and their goat cheese stuffed deep-fried phyllo dough. For entrees I've had almost everything except any of the kebabs, the baba ganoush or the falafel but all of the Lamb dishes are outstanding including the braised lamb shanks which you can only get on the weekend. The Turkish bread served with sun-dried tomato infused olive oil is really excellent also. And for dessert the Turkish baklava is outstanding it's primarily pistachios and very little honey, and drizzled with a grape sauce,so for my palette so much better than the Greek version of this dish. I only moved to Bexley about 3 weeks ago and I've been here probably 15 times since then, I would love to try other places in Bexley but the food is so good here it's very hard for me to do so because it's so delicious . read more

Have been coming to Cafe Istanbul for many years now at both the Easton and Bexley locations. Tonight was a terrible customer service experience which completely ruined our Restaurant Week adventure. The waitress was solo as the only wait staff in the entire building which was I'm sure a major contributor, however the way we were treated was unacceptable. She was rude and seemed put off by my husband asking for a recommendation between two menu items. Also we were not served anything to drink until I asked (which was after our food arrived) and her response was extremely defensive and not in the least apologetic. We were not checked on a single time and no plates were cleared despite it being a three course meal. Finally, all our food arrived at the exact same time so my entree was cold by the time I finished my salad. We felt very rushed and for $50 plus tip, felt cheated. read more

Cafe Istanbul is my favorite Bexley restaurant! I love it for takeout, a date night, or even a quick business lunch. I almost always get the same thing: some type of kabob (chicken or steak), rice, and steamed veggies. I know it sounds simple -- that's because it is! This isn't groundbreaking creativity; it's simple food prepared perfectly. The chicken pieces are juicy and flavorful, and the ribeye is melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness. I know this is going to sound insane, but the rice on the side is SO GOOD. I swear they put magic in there. I cannot explain what they do, but it's great. And then the steamed veggies are still bright and just crisp enough. I've also tried a bunch of different dips here, and each one is made from scratch and tasty AF. I can't eat the housemade bread, but if you can -- DO IT. I swear every time I eat here I have to hold someone's bread and smell it deeply. I look just as insane as the mental image you have in your head. The staff here is really kind and helpful with navigating food allergies. They're also really quick and efficient -- never leaving me wanting anything at all. The interior is dark and romantic for date nights, but the big windows make the space bright for daytime lunches. I recently had their $10 lunch special, and it's gotta be the best deal around! You get a starter, a main dish, and a dessert for only $10! If you're near Bexley, don't skip out on this awesome spot! read more

I had an awesome meal from Cafe Istanbul last week. I'd heard great things leading up to it, and since I was going to be off work this week, I figured I'd get myself a Christmas lunch before my vacation. It's definitely not a cheap place for lunch, with everything being at least $15, but the food was phenomenal. My only gripe is that the lunch and dinner menus are the same, but I don't really see how they could make the lunch menu any cheaper or make the dinner menu any pricier. I ordered the ribeye steak kebab to go, and it came with veggies, rice, and a roll. The ribeye was cooked a perfect medium rare, and the house sauce that it was in was so tasty. Everything was cooked perfectly, and it was just the right amount of food. I'm definitely coming back to dine in at this location in particular. It's a very small place for a perfect date night setting. They have a great patio, which I imagine would be an amazing spot during the summer time right in the heart of Bexley. The parking is a little iffy. I parked on the street, and I didn't really see anywhere else to park, but other than that, there's really not a lot of downside to this restaurant that I've seen. Everyone working seemed incredibly friendly, and I can't wait to get back to try the other kebabs. If you're looking for Turkish cuisine, or really just a great meal period, and haven't been here yet, you have to check it out. read more

Wow! Just returned from my first visit to Cafe Istanbul and it was one of the best food experiences I've ever had! We got there late, so the place was about empty, but the waitstaff was kind and patient. I had the lentil soup, a creamy puree of the beans and what must have been sun dried tomatoes, garlic and herbs. It was a revelation! So delicious! I'd read about the bread and oil, and was impressed with the chewy delicious bread and tangy dipping oil. I then had the Chicken Saute which was just what the doctor ordered! Filled with tomato and peppers and chunks of chicken and served with pilaf. My husband had the Shepherd's stew and he remarked that he didn't know what was in it, but it must be crack because it was addicting! Our dinner partner had the Moussaka and it looked like classic Turkish goodness. She took 1/2 of it home for later! We had a coupon and so it was really a reasonable dinner for the three of us. We will definitely be back! I want some more of that Lentil Soup! read more

I went to the Cafe Instanbul for the first and last time today. Upon arriving I noticed there were 4 parking spots and they were all taken. When I entered the restaurant it was empty and the server told me the employees use all of the parking spaces. The prices were outrageously high and seating were mostly uncomfortable wooden benchs. I ordered the chicken soup which had chicken chunks that tasted like card board. After I explained this to the waitress she grabbed my half eaten bowl so I couldn't even finish the broth which was fine. Of course she still charged me for the soup. I also ordered a piece of tilapia which had no flavor and had bones in it. For dessert which we did not order, a piece of baklava was 6.95 and the other items were about the same price. For mediterranean food I suggest the Mad Greek or even Aladdin's across the street. I wanted to like the restaurant but was given a rude awakening. I give this restaurant no chance of making it. read more

Great food but disappointing they only provide one pita for a $19 appetizer platter when you pickup to go.

Cafe istanbul best place forever apt sampler fruit plate all the kabab s all special food read more

See all

My wife and I enjoy Cafe Istanbul in Bexley so much that when our anniversary came up, we didn't even have to debate where we'd go out for a delicious meal. The shish kabob is so good. Tender grilled pieces of lamb and so well seasoned. A great wine selection, and delightful Turkish wine as well. They also have legit gyro meat, grilled on the spit and all, which we generally enjoy on a pide. Great service, good for "just the two of us" meals as well as meals with friends and young children. Love this restaurant! Eat well! read more

Being a fan of the original Istanbul Cafe near the Crosswoods then the revamp location at Easton, I'm a fan of this location. The Bexley location is closer. Very small store with no lot parking. The interior is covered in expensive wood. MY GOD, THE WOOD! It's like a fancy ski lodge. Prices are a little higher, but still average under $20 per entree. Good quality food. The fresh bread and dip is one of my favorite things ever. I like this location, I get to dine with Russians & Jews, something I don't get to do in Carroll Ohio. Update! I am bumping this to 5 stars! See you there tonight! read more

I have eaten at Cafe Istanbul many times and have never been disappointed. The staff has always been very helpful. They have a great selection of wines and mixed drinks. The food is always very flavorful and cooked to perfection. Last time I was there I had the chicken kebab and shish kebab and I was very happy with my dining experience. They also have borek which is one of my favorite appetizers. In addition to the great food and service, they have a fantastic patio for summertime dining! read more

Service is good. Food has away been good. The interior is small & modern. Actually more seating on the patio than inside. read more

Cafe Istanbul - Turkish Near Me - Bexley, Ohio

Lunch specials pick 3 for $10 from 11-3. Park on the street. Full bar. Seating indoors for about 45. Beautiful patio. Decent vegetarian selections. Didn't get the falafel, but will next time. Had spinache pide which is like a calzone almost. International soccer on in the bar. read more

Huge fan of Mediterranean food and was excited to try Cafe Istanbul in my old neighborhood. The restaurant looks great. Huge outdoor patio/dining area and modern decor, smaller, upscale dining room indoors on an open kitchen. Menu was pretty standard for other similar restaurants like Aladdins, Anna's, Big Fat Greek, Olive Tree, etc and food was on par. Instead of bread or pita, you get the flavored oil with these awesome little bread things. Kind of a cross between a pita and a biscuit. Hot out of the oven. I thought the food was a little pricey, especially on the dinner menu. This is supposed to be Mediterranean peasant food and they are charging as if you are buying a porterhouse steak!! The food was OK for others in my party, but I "misordered", I guess. I got the Doner Kabob, which is basically gyro meat without the gyro. I've had it in other places and not been too impressed and the same was true here. I think they just shave gyro meat and fry it on the grill. It was really greasy and overcooked and dry - done to the point of burnt in some pieces. I should have stuck to the hummus and baba, both really good. Give it a try, especially if your in Bexley, but there are as good or better Med Food joints all over town. read more

I'm really surprised by the negative reviews Istanbul Cafe has been getting. I've been there several times and have had nothing but good experiences. We've always been seated promptly and service was fine. As for the food, as someone that has actually been to Istanbul twice, I can attest that everything here is authentic. The portions are good size and priced reasonably. I've had both the Mixed grill and the Iskander kebabs and enjoyed them. The restaurant interior is small, but the patio is really nice. I've been to the one at Easton and have to say that I prefer the Bexley location. My one complaint would be that the Turkish tea is not as strong as I am used to, but it is still delicious. Give this place a try if you are interested in Turkish cuisine. read more

What a horrible experience!!! At first I was really excited to eat here. We came up and there was a nice jazz band playing on the patio and I liked the decor. Well, it stopped there. The service was mediocre. The waitress did not pay much attention to us and it took her a long time to take our order, check on us and bring our checks. I got the small sampler. It makes my stomach hurt to think about it. Nothing on it was super tasty. The only thing I liked were the grape leaves and when I asked for extra bread to be served with it. We also got the kofta. It was probably the worst kofta I've gotten at a restaurant. We had leftovers and at first I was going to take it, but then it made me sick thinking about eating it again. So I left it behind. A few others seemed to like what they got. I wish I had their luck. I will not be a return customer. read more

Allergic yelpers, beware! I went here with the husband today and let them know I had a nut allergy. I had a reaction to SOMETHING requiring tons of benadryl and steroid shot... not a happy day. My guess is there probably some kind of cross contamination. That being said, the kebabs we ordered were quite good, and the bread the bring out is piping hot and yummy. Rice and side vegetables were blah... I'm not sure this place is worth the price tag. read more

Excellent- huge portions. Got the house salad and really big enough for 2 or as entree with a protein. Fresh hot bread with a nicely spiced red pepper dipping sauce. Had Stuffed eggplant- again big portion but could have been spicier for my taste. Large outdoor space but raining so inside but warm wood decor. Because of in between time only table but waitress Turkish so good knowledge of food. read more

Cafe Istanbul - Main dishes - big portions of stuffed eggplant and cabbage - Turkish Near Me - Bexley, Ohio

The Shepherd salad with feta is the best! I've been coming here for about a year now and can't get enough! I'm vegetarian, so I was hesitant about trying it because I thought they would only have meat kebobs/meat dishes, but that is not the case. Like I said, the Shepherd Salad is one of my favorite dishes. It's similar to what some might know as an Israeli salad or a traditional Greek salad. They also have a yummy appetizer sampler which has about 6 of their cold appetizers on it and it comes with their fresh bread. Also, I have found the service to be really good. There's a nice Turkish woman there (who I think is the manager) and she always remembers that I like the Shepherd salad. It seems silly, but I find it to be a nice gesture. It's hard to find such personalized service these days! read more

Yum! Cafe Istanbul has some delicious flavors. The bread and oil dip that comes before your meal is the BEST ever. I probably dream of it. I love the chicken and my husband always gets the doner and both are fabulous. The rice is amazing. And the steamed veggies are so simple but so good. Of course you have to finish your meal with a Turkish coffee! Definitely don't want to pass on this restaurant if you're in the area. read more

Had a very fine experience eating on the remodeled patio; the covering and renewed landscaping add a great deal to the enjoyment of the restaurant. Suggestion: spread out the umbrellas more evenly to shade more people from late afternoon sun. Sembusek was excellent; chicken kebab needs many more vegetables. Our server Amari worked very hard and did an excellent job; the restaurant seemed to be short of staff, especially people to bus tables. We like this restaurant very much. read more

The food was authentic, and reminded us of what we ate when in Turkey. The service was quick and very friendly, and the dining room was clean and nicely appointed. The what3words location of Cafe Istanbul is: shadow.lanes.sober https://map.what3words.com/shadow.lanes.sober read more

What a disappointing dinner. We ordered doner kebabs and falafel. The meat was overcooked and chewy, the falafel was burned, dry, and crumbling, and the veggies were a soggy mess. The rice tasted like plain white rice in a dull broth. The only flavor in the whole thing was the falafel. On top of that food for one person came out to $17. For the blandest meal I've had in my recent short term memory. With the most mediocre portion sizes imaginable. I've heard good things about this place and I am utterly confused. Was our food shitty because we ordered take out? Or is all of it like this? I am definitely never going back. read more

This restaurant was good. Contrary to other reviews, we had good service and good food. My daughter ordered a kebab combo and the ribeye kebab was too rare. Other than that all was good. Ordered rice pudding and custard for dessert. They were excellent. read more

Wow!!!! Wow!!!! Amazing food!!! I am now hooked. Get the small sampler appetizer platter. Can't wait to go back and continue to make my way through the menu. Service was outstanding as well. read more

My wife and I both git the Steak Kebab. Delicious!!!!! Really like the small size and but big atmosphere when it's packed..

Is zero an option? Been here before. Never again! Ordered hummus carry out asked for a second piece of bread because you get more when you dine in and, well who can eat a whole tub of hummus with only one small piece of bread. THEY CHARGED ME EXTRA $ I asked why they charged me more $. He said bc hummis comes with 1 piece of bread. I told him that it comes with more when I dine in. He said, your right but that's how it is. So your still charging me? He said yes. Easton and dublin always give us more than enough bread when we order cart out dips. I'd rather drive there than give u my business. read more

You must try there steak and lamb shish kabobs. If you want fresh authentic food its a nice play to try. I am a fan!