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Whenever assembling a ranking of London’s top dining spots, one might expect well-known award-winning establishments. But, nestled prominently among these gastronomic titans is a unpretentious salonu situated in a outlying part of northern London.

A Shocking Recognition

The little Turkish eatery, focusing in the specialties of Mersin, a city on Turkey’s southern coast, has been named the 4th finest restaurant in the metropolis by a prominent food magazine. This honour has left the proprietors completely surprised.

“I am totally astonished,” says the family member, alluding to his family’s dedication that resulted in their humble place securing such a lofty spot on a prestigious 99-strong list.

A Charm of Modesty

The little venue, which started as a basic cafe before its change into a popular spot, has maintained much of its original character. It fits just more than 20 people and, except for the impressive live cooking show, the setup remains largely unchanged. “It is a compact and cozy space,” comments the owner.

The Star Dish: Tantuni

However, it’s focused on the food, and this eatery definitely excels. The eatery’s namesake dish, tantuni, is a straightforward delight. The meat—lamb or lamb or chicken—is steamed to keep a succulent consistency.

It is then thrown into a massive pan with flavours and oil, which are added in gradually. When the savoury mixture bubbles up, handmade lavaş—a soft bread—is placed on top to take in all the flavours. Thinly sliced onions and a sprinkling of parsley are added before the savoury meat is rolled tightly inside.

The wrap is usually enjoyed with a drizzle of lemon or some pickles. The final product is a powerful burst of taste, with soft hints of sumac, punchy onions and spicy, paprika-laced oil tying it all in harmony.

Other Than the Classic Tantuni

Patrons can also try yoğurtlu tantuni, where the savoury lavaş is chopped and finished with yogurt, tomato sauce and aromatic brown butter. The prominent food critic described this dish “a part of London’s few flawless, impeccable dishes”.

When it comes to sweets, the eatery’s künefe is a delight. It is doused in less syrup than usual, resulting in it a more intense, more aromatic and not overly sweet profile.

Rising Above the Giants

Remarkably, this unassuming spot has ranked above several illustrious three-Michelin-starred restaurants. It finds itself close to the peak of the list, trailing other esteemed dining destinations.

Whereas two people could easily leave the restaurant full for less than £25, comparable experiences at top-tier establishments can start at many times that amount.

A Creed of Hospitality

It is also part of several Turkish restaurants featured and is situated well outside the city’s most expensive zones. “It is not focused on luxury. London is an expensive city. It is expectation that in an high-cost place you’re going to have the best service and best food but I don’t believe in that,” says the owner.

“I believe what is crucial is warmth, friendliness and a place you can be yourself and feel calm.”

This view is shared by the list’s compiler, who remarked that if he was in a role of authority, he would “insist to have every chef in London visit this restaurant as a masterclass, to show them the pitfalls of overthinking, and to demonstrate what is possible if you do a few – or three – things to their utmost best”.

The Story of Perseverance

Unlike many chefs heading kitchens in the list’s top ten, the driving force behind the food did not train at fancy restaurants. “I am really happy of our restaurant and our mum,” adds her son.

Many restaurants need years to become successful, but this eatery first started seven years ago. Its success is owing to tireless, seven-day weeks of dedication.

“Our mum used to be very tired. She would buy ingredients in the morning and create the food in the afternoon. Everything is prepared manually; she would manage all of this. She is a single mother and she managed a personal life but her friends would come here to support her. She had children and a house to look after as well. All of these duties forged her into what she is now: a exceptional person,” he reflects.

A Accomplishment for the Community

This restaurant’s accolade is likely to resonate beyond its own premises. “I think a lot of people would be pleased, as I am, because the Turkish community is a significant part of London,” concludes the owner, pointing out the broader importance of this culinary achievement.