If you are looking for somewhere near the Thames to have a stroll and some authentic, delicious Turkish food – look no further than Tas Pide near Southbank.
Although this restaurant is part of a chain, it does not feel like it. Hidden in the street next to Shakespeare’s Globe, with cute tables outside and beautifully blooming jasmine that gives the air outside the mystical smell of a warm holiday, you would be forgiven if you thought you had stepped into Turkey as you are welcomed through the doors by friendly staff.
Another lovely thing if you are there before mid September – you can see one of the more beautiful book-benches in the ‘Books About Town‘ exhibit outside the Globe theatre before you wander in for dinner!
The menu is extensive and surprisingly full of many vegetarian friendly options. My dining partner for the evening, The Accountant, pointed this out as she had just returned from a trip to Turkey and felt that there were not enough choices for her when she was out there, and she was overjoyed that this place offered so many.
Some of our delicious and filling dishes:
MERCİMEK KÖFTE
Lentil and fine bulgar wheat patties, flavoured with spring onions, tomato puree, herbs and olive oil, drizzled with pomegranate sauce
KARİDES GÜVEÇ
Prawn casserole with tomatoes, mushrooms, double cream and garlic
HUMUS
Pureed chickpeas with tahini, garlic and lemon, garnished with tender lamb pieces
KUŞBAŞILI PIDE
Diced lamb with onions, pepper puree, green peppers, parsley, pine kernels, oregano
Later as we enjoyed our meal, some beautiful music was played for us
A nice digestive tea
And we still couldnt finish everything off, so it went home with us in a doggie bag!
Definitely going back again 🙂