NEF Istanbul Restaurant
Raja House, 212 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UQ, GB
Rating: 4.6 ★ (1028 ratings)
Details
NEF Istanbul Restaurant offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere on Cowley Road in Oxford, featuring tastefully designed interiors with mural-decorated dining rooms. The restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating, with outdoor tables that include heaters for cooler weather, making it a comfortable choice regardless of the season. The establishment is often described as having a cosy ambiance, enhanced by warm lighting and delicate ornamentation, creating an inviting space that stands out.
The cuisine focuses on delicious Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavours, with an extensive menu offering generous portions at reasonable prices. Notable dishes include the mixed grill, succulent kebabs like chicken shish and Adana kofte, and various pides such as lahmacun and cheesy pide. Diners often praise the fresh, high-quality meat, crispy pide, and the must-try kunefe for dessert. A range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, are available, and complimentary Turkish tea often concludes the meal.
NEF Istanbul is well-suited for a variety of occasions, from family meals and casual outings with friends to celebrations like anniversaries and even weddings. The restaurant is particularly family-friendly, offering a kids' menu, highchairs, and buggy access, with staff known for being genuinely warm and attentive towards children. Whether seeking a quick, tasty bite or a more relaxed dining experience, this establishment provides excellent service and a memorable taste of authentic Turkish culinary heritage in Oxford.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Contact
+44 1865 250170
Comments
Table was tucked inside which was good as you can still feel the breezy cold coming from the open door . And unfortunately keep smelling cigarette from people standing by the door . Not nice . Booth ladies serving were nice but didn’t feel they have the confidence to explain things or advice . First arrived the bread with dips and olive which was nice .
Shared hot mezza was good .
Surprised the grilled main course arrived before we finish the starter! which made us feel rushed , my mix grill lake of meat flavour , mince kebab did not taste at all as minced kebab and very thin , lamb and chicken cubes comes as half skewers!!! And not much flavour in them .
Describing mix grill on the menus said comes with (lamb chops ) chops is plural not single one CHOP . And that what came on it one small chop!
My older son usually not fussy with good appetite, he ordered the wings with chips
He was eating it not enjoying it and when I questioned it he said dry, tasteless and doesn’t feel right . He hardly ate half of them and refused to eat the rest . I explained that to the lady who served us and she said she will check with the chef but she never back !!
Price was ok for the market but not for the quality of the food . Sorry to say that We will not be rushing back .
Food, Service and Atmosphere were really good.
If you had followed me, I am sure you noticed I been to many Turkish restaurants across the country and when I say, Food was good, I really do mean it.
Only criticism I may have is, Service charge. I was happy with the service and I was ready to give a generous tip. I was disappointed to see the added service charge. I treated that as a TIP.
Unfortunately, I didn't take any pictures of the food, hence, couldn't add them. However, I can ensure, the food was yummy.
All the staff were very kind, attentive and warm. Some very warming Turkish teas were brought for us at the end complimentary.
Great stop in Oxford right next to the O2 we were heading to.
We had an amazing experience at Nef Istanbul! We came as a group of 10 and Mert went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. He was incredibly welcoming, attentive, and accommodated our large table with ease, making sure everyone was looked after throughout the evening.
The service was exceptional from start to finish, and to top it all off, Mert kindly treated us to complimentary Turkish tea and delicious baklava, which was such a thoughtful touch and made the experience even more special.
The food was fantastic, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the outstanding hospitality from Mert is the reason we’ll definitely be coming back. Highly recommend asking for Mert if you visit – he truly made our evening memorable!