SFReview
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
A La Turca
A La Turca is spacious, welcoming, and reasonably priced—all words you want to hear if you’re looking for a quick bite, or a casual dinner that will allow you to be in bed by 10pm and won’t completely empty your wallet. This spot in the Tenderloin also turns out some of the best Turkish food in the city.
The space is straightforward yet mildly eclectic with faux rock walls, a giant city mural, and a TV that’ll probably be playing jazz piano tunes. The long menu is a mix of cold and hot mezzes, sandwiches, soups (the lentil is a standout), kebaps plates, and a great selection of housemade pides. The only problem you’ll have is determining how much to order, because everything is great. Here’s what we’d do: Go for a few starters like the spicy ezme, the crispy lahmacun with ground meat, and several big dishes like the lamb, beef, and chicken combo plate with rice and side salad. Of course, one of the pides must be on the table every time—they’re fluffy and perfect.
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Food Rundown
Ezme
This version of the red pepper, tomato, and walnut dip is actually on the spicier side. It’s also a bit thinner than we’re used to, but we have no complaints. Definitely a winner.
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
Lentil Soup
The lentil soup is also thinner than what you’d expect. It’s light and very herby, and you should definitely add the squeeze of lime. Housemade bread comes on the side.
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
Lahmacun
The perfectly balanced ground meat-topped flatbread is crispy but not overly crispy—it won’t shatter when you layer on sliced pickled onions, tomatoes, and lettuce, which you should do before you roll up the whole thing and take a bite.
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
Spinach & Cheese Pide
The housemade bread is not over done, holds its shape when you pick it up, and comes topped with gooey mozzarella and feta. Get this.
Combo Plate
A plate that subscribes to the ethos of abundance. This one is overflowing with tender lamb, beef, and chicken, and has a ton of orzo-filled rice and refreshing greens on the side.
