"I have so much pride": Family run Turkish restaurant crowned the best in Hampshire
Authentic Turkish cuisine and a wholesome atmosphere go hand in hand at one of Hampshire’s best restaurants.
Mehmet Kitchen, in Copnor Road, has been recognised at Hampshire’s best Turkish restaurant in the Turkish Restaurants & Takeaway Awards (TURTA) at a ceremony in London earlier this week.
From traditional ocakbasi grills to innovative modern dining, the awards celebrate the best Turkish food venues in the industry.
The Portsmouth restaurant, which opened at the start of 2021, is run by the Ulucan family, who have worked round the clock to secure loyal customers and provide high quality dishes.
Yusuf Ulucan, manager of Mehmet, said: “With this particular organisation, this is the third award we have won with them so the fact we keep getting it is a massive achievement that shows we are consistent with what we do.
“I have so much pride. We are here six days a week, making sure we get the best good out for customers and my dad is always working to make sure everything is perfect.”
He added: “It is one of the best feelings and it is nice to see my dad happy because throughout my childhood, my dad has been in the food business and I have seen how hard he works so it’s amazing to see that recognised.”
A TURTA Awards spokesperson said: “Portsmouth’s Turkish restaurants are serving some of the best food in Britain.
From hot and cold meze to kebabs, burgers, sharing platters and wraps, there is something for everyone to tuck into at Mehmet Kitchen, which is open seven days a week from 3pm.