LOCATIONUpstairs Sydney Road location close to the corner or Stewart Street.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIARumeli's has a strong personality that comes from the belly dancers, snake charmers and live bands that animate the restaurant. The large parties of people are also drawn by the weekend banquets that feature mountains of grilled meats, Turkish bread, dips and traditional specialities. Run by a father and sons team who not only work the floor but perform the majority of entertainment, Rumeli’s fosters a family oriented party atmosphere which sees them catering to christenings, engagements, birthday and work functions. Friday and Saturday nights offer a selection of banquet options from the modest yet filling ‘Basic Banquet’ through to the ‘Presidential Feast’ which includes half a slow baked lamb.
Grilled meat dishes such as
shish kebab or
kofta (meatballs), as well as other traditional fare of
pilav rice, karni yarik (eggplant stuffed with flavoursome lamb mince), cabbage rolls, and stuffed capsicum can be found in true Turkish style. Specialties include the
sac kavurma, which is a selection of chicken or lamb with mixed vegetables served sizzling in the pan. During the week the restaurant is quieter and operates on a limited menu, and vegetarians would be advised to call in advance as the menu is very meat oriented. A Turkish feast must finish with the Turkish delight which is of course a specialty of Rumelis; the soft pink sweet sticks delectably to fingers enticing one to lick off the remants. Turkish spirits and wines match the banquet and the restaurant kindly offers free corkage for BYO. The well known Turkish tipple Kaki of anise is also available and is traditionally enjoyed with meze, fish or kebabs. Rumeli’s is characterised with quirky kitsch that features in the aquarium bar and the neon lights, but its unique personality is loved by families who can come together in loud and joyful celebrations.
Angela Costanzo