Amid the dynamic culinary landscape of Miami lies El Turco, an establishment renowned for its authentic Turkish cuisine.
Located in the vibrant Upper Buena Vista area, El Turco has been recognized by acclaimed culinary platforms such as the Michelin Guide. This eatery was awarded the Bib Gourmand title consecutively from 2022 to 2024, highlighting its quality offerings at moderate prices. In 2023, El Turco was also celebrated as the best Mediterranean restaurant by Miami New Times and ranked among the top seven by Bon Appetit magazine, underscoring its esteemed position in Miami’s dining scene.
The restaurant offers a family-style dining experience with a menu rich in traditional Turkish dishes. Favorites among patrons include handmade Manti and Izmir Kofte, with a selection of Mediterranean mezes such as Babaganush and hummus adding variety. Diners also enjoy classic Turkish breakfast items under the canopy of a 150-year-old banyan tree, which contributes to the venue’s serene and inviting atmosphere.
Moreover, El Turco’s adaptability was evident in 2024 when it accommodated numerous small events in its Tiki hut, offering visitors a cozy retreat protected from Miami’s unpredictable weather. This space, accommodating up to 35 guests, has become popular for intimate gatherings amidst the enchanting ambiance.
Despite its strengths, the dining experience at El Turco is not without critique. While the food quality consistently receives high praise, service has been noted as inconsistent according to verified diner reviews. Patrons frequently commend the “excellent ambiance” and “delicious food,” yet mention that service can range from outstanding to requiring improvement, particularly in attentiveness.
The culinary offerings include a diverse menu with standout dishes such as the succulent Kavurma and Lamb Casserole, both served with rice. The vegetarian options like the Vegetarian Bowl are also popular, featuring a mix of fresh ingredients served with baked bread. Desserts like the baklava further cement the restaurant’s reputation for delivering authentic flavors.
Guest reviews illustrate high satisfaction with the overall dining experience, awarding El Turco a 4.7-star rating on platforms such as OpenTable. However, specific feedback notes areas for enhancement, particularly in service speed and attentiveness during high-traffic periods. This call for improvement suggests opportunities for the restaurant to refine its customer experience.
Nevertheless, the consistency in food quality and ambiance keeps diners returning. Many describe El Turco as a “must-visit” for those passionate about Turkish cuisine, appreciative of its careful balance of tradition and innovation.
El Turco stands out as a beacon of authentic Turkish cuisine in Miami, beloved not only for its exquisite dishes but also for its enchanting environment. While service elements have room for refinement, the restaurant’s commitment to delivering a genuine and memorable dining journey remains its strongest asset.
Source: Opentable
