NEF Istanbul Restaurant
Raja House, 212 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UQ, GB
Rating: 4.6 ★ (831 ratings)
Details
Vibrant murals depicting Turkish landscapes adorn the walls at NEF Istanbul on Cowley Road, setting the scene for a culinary journey through Turkey, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean. This family-owned establishment, founded in 2017, has made a name for itself by showcasing unique regional flavours to the Oxford community. The smartly laid out tables and warmly lit, delicately ornamented ambiance create a welcoming and surprisingly lovely setting, perfect for a relaxed meal or a special occasion. Whether you choose to dine indoors amidst the colourful decor or opt for the outdoor seating, the friendly and attentive staff are known for making guests feel like valued members of an intimate dining experience.
The menu at NEF Istanbul offers a wide array of choices, from an assortment of mezze dishes, perfect for sharing, to succulent kebabs and flavourful mains. Standout dishes frequently praised by diners include the mixed grill, tender lamb shish, chicken shish, and lahmajun. Freshly baked bread often arrives complimentary, accompanied by olives, garlic yoghurt, and a spicy tomato paste, setting the stage for the delights to come. The restaurant caters well to various dietary needs, offering vegan and vegetarian options alongside their popular meat and seafood dishes. With generous portions and reasonable prices, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for authentic Turkish cuisine and a memorable meal.
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.