The mixed meat plate was absolutely delicious! The beef döner was tender and full of flavor, and the chicken was perfectly seasoned and juicy. The rice, fresh salad, and creamy hummus completed the meal perfectly. Everything tasted fresh and authentic. Definitely one of the best Turkish meals we've had recently -- highly recommended! read more

Istanbul Kitchen - COMBO SHAWARMA PLATE - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

I tried this place for the first time. I ordered a special dish, and they brought out a work of art.The taste was amazing. The staff were very polite and professional. This is now my favorite spot in the Bay Area. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

Awesome food, amazing service. Restaurant was peaceful and well kept. I cannot recommend this place enough!

Istanbul Kitchen opened 5 months ago in Sultan's Grill spot. Interior, paint, flatscreen, seating essentially the same. Ordered at counter, pd. Food made to order. Came in 20 minutes. Cashier & cook same person. Great service. Offerings (Turkish, Mediterranean): burgers, veggie, kebabs, shawarmas, sides, salads, desserts. Sips: Turkish tea (comped) -light, refreshing Bites: lamb shish kebab (19.99) -fresh salad of tomatos, beets?, mixed greens, onions, light dressing. Very fresh, crunchy, generous portion. -hummus tasted the usual, no surprises. Yum! -fresh warmed pita bread, tasty. Saved for later. -lotsa rice underneath 2 skewers. Soaked up juices. -2 medium well cooked skewers of slightly tender big chucks of lamb pieces. Nasty not too juicy. *had small containers of tahnini and chili sauce. **too much for lunch, ate 1/2 later for snack. 5 stars: Great service! Quality: freshly cooked, fresh ingredients. Quantity: plentiful-had leftovers read more

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I used to come here when it was the previous Turkish restaurant, so I was disappointed when they closed down. But I'm glad it's still a Turkish spot because there aren't too many around. I ordered the lamb plate to go, which came with rice, salad, hummus, and pita. The portion size was great and they gave a good amount of meat. Overall the food was pretty good. The only downside for me was the salad. It was a little too oily and the flavor wasn't my favorite. The bigger issue though was the customer service. When I walked in, the guy working saw me but didn't acknowledge me at all even though they were busy. When he took my order, he also wasn't very friendly. It honestly made me miss the previous restaurant because the owner there was always welcoming and nice to everyone. Overall I'd still come back for the food, but the service definitely needs improvement. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Lamb shawarma plate - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

Tried for first time today through DoorDash and thought it was pretty good but room for improvement. First of all our food was delayed not sure if it was DD or the restaurant but that was a bummer. We ordered chicken shawarma plate, lentil soup, beef kebab and a combo shawarma bowl. The food overall was pretty good with good flavor but pretty oily. I was hoping it would be a bit on the healthier side. Also the hummus that came with the plate was really off. Like as if it was missing an essential ingredient. Salt and not sure what else. It was not edible unfortunately. However, I would give them another shot and see if they improve. read more

I wanted to start out this was for take out food. The restaurant is very clean and well organized. We ordered online and then drove, to pay and pick up our food. We tried the Turkish tea which was great. A mild black tea with a mild flavor and good color. For those that need Dessert Frirst, the display window will show they desserts and Turkish Delights with signage so you know what is what. There was a large variety and there are items pre packed if you are so inclined to purchase. First off, the food was season perfectly and not salty. Like I said earlier, this was take out, and we drove home in ten minutes to eat. The Lamb Shish Kebab was cooked medium well to well, and yet everything was still moist and tender. The lamb juices went straight into the rice which made for excellent eating. Included in the package was a salad of lettuce and tomatos, and slightly picked purple cabbage, dill sauce and seasoned chick peas. We also ordered some sides of dolmas and falafels. The dolmas was perfect and rice just right, and the falafels had a tiny bit of heat it it, but still was very mild. There was two sauces included, one was a orange/pink sauce which looked like the color of Thousand Island dressing, which worked well with the falafels, and a red hot sauce, which I would rate at four out of ten in Heat, with a 5 minute after burn on your tounge. I used this hot sauce on my kebabs and it was perfect. The second entree we purchased was the Chicken Schwarma bowl. This too included a salad with the pickled purple cabbage, a side of hummus and rice. After eating all the lamb kebab and the sides we save part of the chicken for the next day. After this expereinece I would like to explore the menu further both in restaurant and take out, and try ALL the sweets. read more

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Excellent food and dessert and customer service excellent and I would recommend I ended up ordering two orders of the variety package for the Turkish delight and a chicken shawarma bowl as well to go. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Kofte kebab - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

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I have been wanting to try this restaurant for a very long time since they open and finally tried today. I ordered my food to go and selected the chicken shawarma plate, seafood kebab plate, side order of fries, & mix lokum delight. I was offered tea while waiting for my food which was delicious, cozy, and perfect for the afternoon time. The gentleman assisting me was very kind, calm, & professional yet hospitable. They brought out my food shortly after. The food was freshly prepared, the rice was sooo good, went very well with the shrimp & salmon kebabs along with the salad, hummus, & pita bread. My husband had the chicken shawarma plate and also complimented the rice & the rest of his meal too. The fries were plenty, crispy, and large enough portion to share. we cannot wait to share the lokum delight with our friends, they had a beautiful display of mix lokum delight with some packaged ready to go. it reminded me of one of my favorite travels to turkey when I brought boxes back home for my family and friends to try. The inside had seating, very well kept and clean. This is the perfect spot to stop by after a workout from the local gym if you want to get healthy quality food with fresh protein veggie options. I was satisfied and full from my food, but still full of energy. I'm so glad I stopped by to try it out because I will definitely be coming back to enjoy more and definitely will order for delivery too. If you're looking for some delicious Mediterranean lunch or dinner options, (including pescatarian friendly) this east bay restaurant is one you must checkout. read more

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My coworker and I wanted to get some lunch together and were craving some shawarma and falafel. We're so lucky we have yummy Turkish food at Istanbul Kitchen here in San Leandro. There's plenty of parking in this shopping plaza. Istanbul Kitchen is pretty easy to find, good signage, and good storefront. The restaurant itself is pretty chill with lots of indoor seating. None outdoors. We visited during Ramadan, but were surprised to see a few other diners enjoying their lunch. The owner or person taking our order was so friendly, he even brought us complimentary turkish tea while we were waiting for our lunch to be made. We both got the chicken shawarma bowl which was so delicious and flavorful. It did take a solid 15mins so if you're in a rush, place your order ahead of time. The rice was SO AMAZING. There's just something in the blood of the countries hugging the Mediterranean Sea. The rice is unbeatable. The display case of gorgeous turkish delight is so hard to resist. They all have nuts in them though. Would 100% enjoy another meal at Istanbul Kitchen. Quality Turkish food by quality people. Sağlığnıza! read more

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Ordered the Adana Kebab here and it was delicious. It came with some pita bread which I used to wrap around the kebab. I also got some ayran as a drink and one baklava. Service was friendly and they even brought some complimentary tea to the table which was a nice touch. The Turkish music in the background made for an enjoyable ambiance. Plenty of parking out front as well. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

I was pleasantly surprised at this new Turkish place near Target. I ordered the chicken kebabs to go. When I got there, I was immediately greeted by the nice man at the counter and he even gave me a piece of one of their Turkish delight delicacies. I didn't ask for it, but he also gave me a cup of tea. All this for a to go order. I sat a while, drank my tea, chatted a bit with him, enjoying the breeze that came through the door. I thanked him and left. When I got to work, I was shocked that there were four skewers in my order! The portion was definitely larger than other places I've tried. The marinade was excellent, too, and the chicken wasn't dry. The hummus was also very delicious and wasn't overly sour. It's a clean and welcoming place and I was really impressed with the kindness that I received. They're a new place in the complex and I wish them success. I don't doubt they'll do well! read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Chicken kebab plate. Four skewers. - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

We had a great experience here today! The Turkish food was fresh and full of flavor. The chicken shawarma was absolutely delicious--perfectly seasoned, juicy, and served with fresh ingredients. The staff was friendly, and the restaurant was clean and welcoming. We will definitely be coming back. Highly recommended. read more

It's very delicious and the service is very good I recommend, the best Turkish food. مطعم رائعه جدا والاكل جدا لذيذ والخدمة فوق الممتازه وصاحب المطعم جدا محترم read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

Service here is warm and friendly. The tea is provided on the house, and it is excellent. Had the med salad, which was good, but the warm fluffy pita bread is outstanding, and the falafel is tender on the inside, and crisp on the outside. Their baba ganoush is smoky and delicious and the best I've ever had. Can't wait to come back to try their shawarma. read more

Had dinner there on Friday with the family! It's a no frills place where you order at the counter and they bring the food out to you piping hot! Their service prices are reasonable and the food was delicious! Their shawarmas, kabob plates and wraps are generous and absolutely tasty! The service was great and friendly. There's ample parking in the lot and easy to get to! It's very casual! We'd definitely come back! read more

Came here for a late dinner one Sunday night, just after 9 pm. Wanted something light and healthy, so I ordered a lentil soup. Was served a delicious hot tea, and tasty fresh pita bread to go with the lentil soup. The lentil soup was tasty, light, and fresh with a lemon wedge. Great service, and ambiance is nice with soft Turkish music in the background. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

Dined in today and it was such a pleasant experience!! We ordered a chicken shawarma plate, and a combo plate w chicken & lamb. The food is tasty and fresh, flavor is on point and the over all vibe is great. Most of all, the owner is such a kind soul! 11/10 experience, i'll probably visit here on the regular now. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - CHICKEN SHAWARMA plate - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

Authentic and tasty food. Best Turkish restaurant in this area. Food was fresh and tasty. Restaurant is clean and people are nice. They take care their customers! Will come again. read more

The food was exceptional and the service was on point. Definitely would recommend. Will be back soon.

I stumbled across this place yesterday, and happy I did ! The food was pretty fire ! Definitely coming back to try the other Turkish dishes. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - LAMB SHAWARMA BOWL - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

I ordered the beet salad, baba ganoush, a side of pita, and lokum delight. All the food was delicious and the service was fantastic! I came in to pick up my order and the person working there was very friendly, offered me to try one of the dessert fillings, and gave me a home-brewed tea, which was also tasty (I like earthy, herbal teas)! The other costumers' meals looked really good as well. I will be coming back to try an entre soon. The place was also clean! I recommend this place to anyone who likes this style of cuisine. read more

Istanbul Kitchen - BEET SALAD, BABAGANHUOUS, LOKUM DELIGHT - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

Great service, amazing food! Truly experience! Will certainly come back! The complementary tea and baklava were a great way to finish an awesome, well served meal! read more

Great place to eat. The food and service is great. I enjoy it, they take good care of you ( Great customer service and food).I love it.

I stopped here yesterday night a little before closing, and my chicken souvlaki plate was absolutely phenomenal. The quality of the food could only be matched by the quality of the service :) Friendly staff provided a complimentary hot tea with the baklava I ordered afterwards. I felt absolutely taken care of, definitely stopping here again. read more

I go here all the time, and every single time they are alway so nice and the food is amazing!! Definitely one of my most favorite spots in San Leandro!! read more

This place offers fresh food great service a lot of a lot of desserts. We will be back and great location. Have really good tea. read more

Good quality ingredients. Fresh. Generous portions. Tasty, but could have been more seasoned for my taste. Meat was a tad dry. Pleasing presentation. Note: Our food was not very hot (saw steaming food plates at later table). Baklava, crispy, not overly syrupy. Nougat, nicely nutty and tender. Service was excellent: efficient, friendly. Casual setting, bench was actually comfortable ( we stayed a long time). read more

We just had dinner from here and it was so delish! The restaurant has new owners and previously was called Sultan's but in the same place and still serving Turkish food! Our chicken shawarma plate had good portions of juicy meat, salad with picked red onions that provided nice acidity, hummus and plain rice. The falafels we ordered separately to try and they were huge! They had a nice crisp and really moist inside. I got a free cup of Turkish tea too which was a nice treat and I look forward to trying next time with some sweets because there were many options other than the standard baklava! Overall, the service was quick and easy and price worth it as well! See you next time, Istanbul Kitchen! read more

Istanbul Kitchen - Chicken shawarma plate - Mediterranean Near Me - San Leandro, California

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Fantastic #1 plate with kebab, rice, house made hummus, green salad! Friendly service. Clean. Would go there again!

The food was absolutely delicious and tasted just like authentic Turkish cuisine. The staff were very friendly and attentive. Great portions great flavors and a wonderful dining experience overall. I will definitely come back again! read more

Amazing food and service! Place is always very clean and the staff is always very friendly.

Went in with my family because we were craving shawarma. The food was good but we found the wraps to be a bit dry. I recommend asking for tatziki or hot sauce. However the meat was very flavorful. The service was very nice. The gentleman at the counter was quick and polite. It's located right next to target, which is convenient. read more

I went in to get my grubhub pick up order and was greeted warmly. My order was not ready and so i sat down, and was welcomed with a nice complimentary hot cup of tea and complimentary turkish delight slices. They definitely did not have to do this but this gesture was really appreciated by me! Nice music was playing as well, clean interior, & beautiful display of turkish delights! They were delightful ! Food is amazing too! Such a good food spot nearby. read more

This restaurant (close to Target) is fairly new so Im hoping you'll try it. I absolutely LOVE this place!!! The food is outstanding and reminds me of such fond memories of the Middle East. I especially appreciate their lentil soups - so good and healthy too. I think I have now met the entire staff. So kind and generous - they always offer and bring me a free cup of tea at the end of my meal. read more

Food and service were delicious. Best Turkish food I've had. The lamb was tender, fresh and succulent. Wanted more but I was so full with the portion! read more

Looking to try something different and found this new Turkish place. Got the chicken kebab which was delicious. Marinated chicken breast (my preference, 4 big skewers!) which was surprising since many places use thigh and it was savory. The plate came with salad which was slightly tart which I like. The hummus was tasty and pita bread had a tiny hint of sweet. Price was reasonable and place was clean. There were a few tables if u want to eat in. They had a beautiful huge array of desserts to browse. I was given a piece to try and it was good. Will be back soon. Want to try the shawarma. read more

Always great food and good customer service! The Greek salad and hamburger are my favorites.

We ordered food for an office birthday lunch. The food was good but we never received our desserts. When I called to complain I was first told that it did not show up on his print-out. I explained that it was on our receipt and we were charged for it. He then said that we could come back which was obviously not going to work for us. He then said I had to call the people who ran the web-site. Since we had received an email for a survey we quickly completed it and sent it off and guess what - it bounced back. So we are just going to have to eat this $13 charge which means we won't be going back. read more