LOCATIONSouthbank.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAWith its pillowy, traditionally Middle-Eastern interior the tone and decor of Ahmet’s creates a Turkish circus of colours that brims with character and atmosphere. It’s bold and vibrant to say the least, and matched with a consistently tasty menu and friendly service, this restaurant has won a crowd of grateful diners over the years. The true Turkish cuisine, which displays a spicy showcase of flavours, greets dinner and lunch guests daily at its popular South Bank location. Starters that make an impression include scrumptious vegetarian fritters served with garlic-infused yogurt, or the
sigara borek – lightly shallow-fried pastry stuffed with fetta and a concoction of fresh herbs.
The slow roast clay pot casserole – eggplant, zucchini, potato, capsicum, a little garlic and a bit more of this and that is added to your choice of lamb, chicken or “vegetarian” option. There’s also a decent char-grilled selection; try the kofte served with sauteed Turkish bread, topped with garlic yoghurt and the in-house special tomato salsa. Or go for the simple yet moreish chicken oregano and garlic skewers. Ahmet’s also does a lip smacking moussakka the age old way; with eggplant and minced meat in a cradle of Turkish-style rice. The extensive dessert menu certainly deserves a look; vanilla ice-cream comes padded with almonds and walnuts and complemented with a strawberry syrup. The ideal (and delightful) way to wrap up your feast is with pieces of rose-flavoured Turkish delight elegantly dusted with icing sugar.
Katharine Chapman, January 2010