Cafe Mediterranean
A handwritten sign greets guests outside Café Mediterranean: “The closest way to be in Turkey without being in Turkey.” After enjoying dinner there, I’m a believer. The atmosphere, staff and cuisine all feel genuinely Turkish — right down to the music.
My wife, who has traveled to Turkey several times, told owner and host Fahri Ozdil, “The only thing you need are belly dancers.” Fahri smiled and replied that he used to have them, but found they distracted from the dining experience. “I want customers to come in for the great food,” he said. Belly dancers or not, we had a wonderful meal.
Cold Appetizer Sampler
Nestled among a row of shops and eateries in Hyde Park, Café Mediterranean presents a welcoming, casual façade that invites you in. Inside, the setting is both elegant and relaxed — perfect for a slow, enjoyable weekend dinner.
The menu offers a well-rounded array of small plates to start. We ordered the Cold Appetizer Sampler, featuring hummus, tabouli, labneh, eggplant marinara, stuffed grape leaves and babaganoush. Without exaggeration, it was one of the best appetizer collections I’ve had in years — beautifully presented, fresh and vividly seasoned. Each dish was satisfying and distinctive. The platter was generous for two but ideal for a larger group, and a great way to sample the range of Turkish flavors.
Turkish Bread
As a devoted hummus enthusiast, I can say Café Mediterranean’s version ranks among the best I’ve tasted, with that unmistakable freshness of something made in-house by skilled hands. My wife felt the same about the tabouli — bright, light and delicious. And, as in any good Turkish restaurant, the house bread arrives warm, soft and served with eye-catching presentation.
Doner Gyros Kebabs
To complement our meal, we began with a crisp, refreshing Turkish white wine, Kavaklidere Cankaya, a delightful discovery that paired beautifully with the appetizers. For our main course, at Fahri’s suggestion, we shared the Doner Gyros Kebabs — marinated lamb shaved and grilled, served with cacik sauce, rice and roasted bell peppers. Balanced, tender and flavorful, the dish was elevated by a red Spanish wine, Volver Tempranillo, which matched perfectly.
After dinner, Fahri stopped by our table for a chat. It’s clear he takes personal pride in everything he serves — he’s there for every meal. When he suggested we try dessert, we happily agreed.
Kazandibi
We ended our evening with Kazandibi, a Turkish custard drizzled with caramel and dusted with cinnamon — simple and sublime. What I enjoyed most, though, was the Turkish tea served alongside it. It’s rare these days to be offered tea after dinner, and it reminded me how much I enjoy the ritual. Though I’m a lifelong coffee lover, there’s something wonderfully soothing about a cup of well-brewed tea paired with a sweet treat.
If you haven’t visited Café Mediterranean — or haven’t been lately — I strongly recommend you do. It offers something distinct and delightful among the many dining choices in our area. And like all truly memorable meals, the last taste lingers long after it’s gone.
