This review took place in March 2019 and is based on a visit to the restaurant without the restaurant's knowledge. For more on BK's review policy, click here.
You might have heard praise floating around for this hole-in-the-wall Turkish spot that has managed to become Thonglor’s go-to for hummus. The attentive, caring service, bolstered by smiling chefs who walk around chatting to the customers, says a lot about the value they put into the place they run.
Verification comes in the form of pillowy, soft fresh-baked pita breads, creamy hummus and crispy balls of falafel. Entering the small Turkish-inspired space, the atmosphere is cozy and casual, almost like you’re dining at home. The exotic tiled walls contrast with plain wooden floors and wood-heavy decor beneath dimmed lighting. From the open kitchen at the back come sounds of bread kneading and hummus blending, which compete with the old-school hip-hop coming from the TV and sound of tables chatting.
Hummus here is kept simple and just lightly seasoned, allowing the flavor of the various toppings to shine through—many of which offer unique Western plays on Middle Eastern classics. For a prime example, order the Lucid Dream (B280/B340 a set), an ultra-creamy combo of avocado, boiled eggs and spinach atop a smooth ring of hummus, topped with a crunchy sprinkle of toasted almond slices, or the Funky Champignons (B220/B280 a set), which sees hummus topped with sauteed spinach, caramelized onions, garlic confit and mushrooms for a surprisingly mellow taste.
An explosive bomb of flavor, the falafel Greek salad (B280) is made up of tangy Kalamata olives, fat cubes of feta cheese and crispy falafel balls on a pile of fresh leaves—though, if we have to pick holes, the dressing is a tad too salty for our liking.
A shot of Turkish coffee or a refreshing mint tea with a hint of cinnamon makes the perfect finisher, served in beautiful authentic Turkish coffee cups. Pair it with a bowl of malabi (a goat milk pudding sweetened with rose syrup, topped with coconut flakes and roasted almonds, B60).
Without being too effusive, this Turkish joint knows exactly what it’s doing and does it well. With the delicious food and welcoming service, it’s almost impossible to not become a regular customer. Just make sure you head there before noon to snatch the last plate of fried vegan mozzarella sticks—they’re so good that they often sell out by early afternoon!
