Welcome to Mangal II, London’s most-loved Turkish grill, where indulgence meets freedom. With a rich history dating back to the early 1990s, Mangal II has been a pioneer in introducing authentic Turkish cuisine to the UK. Under the expert guidance of owner Ali Dirik, this iconic restaurant has become synonymous with the art of charcoal ocakbasi cooking and traditional Turkish flavors. Renowned for its succulent lamb chops, generous borek, and delectable hellim cheese, Mangal II has been a favorite among value-seeking diners and group gatherings. Engaging with customers through social media, Mangal II has embraced the spirit of freedom, offering a refined and indulgent dining experience that combines traditional elements with Nordic influences. With impeccable desserts, a familiar atmosphere, and a touch of history, Mangal II invites you to indulge in the best of Turkish cuisine in the heart of London.

Key Takeaways

• Mangal II introduced charcoal ocakbasi cooking from Istanbul to the UK and has evolved into London’s most-loved Turkish grill.
• The restaurant offers a refined and indulgent menu with a mix of traditional and Nordic influences, including dishes like sourdough pide with kaymak butter and chopped beef ezme with fried bulgar.
• The desserts at Mangal II are a must-try, with options like tahini and apple tart and pear sorbet with grilled grape and anise hyssop coulis.
• While prices have increased, the atmosphere at Mangal II remains familiar and the dining experience is considered high-end, with the added appeal of the restaurant’s history and unique drink choices.

Evolution of Mangal II

The evolution of Mangal II can be traced back to its introduction of charcoal ocakbasi cooking from Istanbul to the UK in the early 1990s. This innovative cooking method brought a new dimension to the local cuisine and had a significant impact on Turkish cuisine in the UK. Customers were intrigued by the unique flavors and succulent meats that were achieved through this traditional cooking technique. The restaurant quickly gained a loyal following and became known as London’s most-loved Turkish grill. Encouraged by the positive reception, Mangal II embarked on expansion plans, opening a larger establishment a few years later. The customer reactions were overwhelmingly positive, and the restaurant continued to thrive. This evolutionary change not only transformed the dining scene in London but also helped to popularize Turkish cuisine and its traditional cooking methods in the UK.

Introduction of Charcoal Ocakbasi Cooking

With the introduction of charcoal ocakbasi cooking from Istanbul to the UK in the early 1990s, Mangal II revolutionized the local cuisine scene and sparked a newfound appreciation for Turkish cooking methods. Charcoal ocakbasi cooking holds significant cultural importance in Turkish cuisine, as it represents a traditional and authentic way of grilling meats and vegetables. Unlike other grilling methods that use gas or electric heat sources, ocakbasi cooking involves using charcoal to create a distinct smoky flavor and a unique charred texture. This method allows for precise control of heat and adds depth to the dishes. The use of charcoal also imparts a certain nostalgia and connection to the past, as it harkens back to the ancient cooking techniques of Anatolian nomads. Overall, charcoal ocakbasi cooking is a cherished aspect of Turkish culinary heritage and continues to captivate diners with its rich flavors and cultural significance.

Popular Dishes at Mangal II

Revolutionizing the local cuisine scene with their introduction of charcoal ocakbasi cooking, Mangal II has become renowned for their popular dishes that showcase the authentic flavors and techniques of Turkish grilling. Here are three of the best dishes to try at Mangal II:

• Juicy Lamb Chops: Succulent and tender, these grilled lamb chops are a delight for meat lovers. The smoky flavor from the charcoal grill enhances the natural richness of the meat, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

• Bountiful Borek: A classic Turkish pastry, Mangal II’s borek is filled with a variety of delicious ingredients such as spinach, feta cheese, and minced meat. The crispy golden crust paired with the savory filling creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

• Squeaky Hellim Cheese: Made from sheep’s milk, hellim cheese is grilled to perfection at Mangal II, resulting in a slightly charred exterior and a soft, squeaky texture. It’s a must-try for cheese enthusiasts looking for a unique and satisfying experience.

Indulge in these popular dishes at Mangal II and experience the true essence of Turkish cuisine in London.

Engaging Social Media Presence

Mangal II’s strong social media presence has significantly contributed to its reputation as London’s most-loved Turkish grill. With clever engagement strategies and witty social media banter, the restaurant has managed to capture the attention of a freedom-seeking audience. In 2012, when Ferhat Dirik took over the Twitter account, he infused it with sass and humor, engaging in banter not only with customers but also with celebrities like Mumford and Sons. The restaurant even developed a playful vendetta against neighboring Nandos. This bold and entertaining approach to social media has not only attracted a loyal following but has also helped to create a vibrant and interactive online community. By utilizing social media as a platform for engagement, Mangal II has successfully created a buzz and maintained its position as a beloved Turkish grill in London.

Change in Ownership and Rebranding

Following the evolution of Mangal II’s engaging social media presence, a change in ownership and rebranding has brought new developments to London’s most-loved Turkish grill. The impact on customer experience has been significant, with the restaurant aiming to maintain the essence of Mangal II under new ownership. Here are three key aspects of the change:

• Fresh vision: The new owners have injected a fresh vision into Mangal II, bringing in innovative ideas while honoring the restaurant’s rich history.
• Enhanced ambiance: The rebranding has resulted in an enhanced ambiance, creating a more inviting and stylish atmosphere for diners to enjoy their meals.
• Expanded menu: With the change in ownership, the menu has been expanded to offer a wider range of delectable Turkish dishes, catering to different dietary preferences and ensuring there is something for everyone.

The change in ownership and rebranding has breathed new life into Mangal II, ensuring that customers continue to enjoy the authentic Turkish flavors and exceptional dining experience they have come to love.

Refined and Indulgent Food Options

The menu at London’s most-loved Turkish grill offers an array of refined and indulgent culinary options. With innovative flavor combinations and vegetarian options with a twist, diners can indulge in a truly unique dining experience. The fabulously oily, palm-sized sourdough pide with cultured kaymak butter is a must-try, showcasing the perfect balance of indulgence and satisfaction. For meat lovers, the cull yaw kofte provides a meaty nod to the grill’s traditional menu, while incorporating a Nordic influence with a sweet splodge of grilled apple. Vegetarian options like fermented red pepper sarma and mushroom manti offer a delightful twist on classic Turkish flavors. The menu also features chopped beef ezme with fried bulgar and smoked pastirma, adding an extra layer of complexity to the dining experience. Whether you’re a vegetarian seeking innovative flavors or a meat lover looking for indulgent options, London’s most-loved Turkish grill has something for everyone.

Delicious Dessert Delights

1. The dessert menu at London’s most-loved Turkish grill offers a selection of delightful treats that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Indulge in the exquisite Turkish pastries, crafted with flaky layers and filled with luscious nuts, sweetened cheese, or aromatic spices. These pastries are a true delight, taking your taste buds on a journey to the vibrant streets of Istanbul.

2. For those craving something cold and creamy, the grill serves decadent ice cream creations. From classic flavors like rich chocolate and velvety vanilla to unique combinations like pistachio and rosewater, each scoop is a burst of pure indulgence. Topped with crunchy nuts, sweet syrups, or delicate fruit compotes, these ice cream creations are a celebration of freedom and pleasure.

3. And if you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of both worlds, try the baklava sundae. Layers of flaky pastry, honey, and crushed pistachios are stacked high, topped with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream and drizzled with a sticky-sweet syrup. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Pricing and Atmosphere

With its higher prices and inclusion of gratuity, the pricing at London’s most-loved Turkish grill has elevated the dining experience to a new level of high-end indulgence. This atmospheric pricing reflects the restaurant’s commitment to providing a high-end dining experience in a familiar setting. The room itself holds a history that adds to the overall charm and ambiance, having been previously visited during a comedown in 2014. But it’s not just the pricing and history that contribute to the atmosphere; the unique drink choices, such as the popular Picklerak, a cloudy and ice-cold raki chased with fermented turnip juice, add to the sense of indulgence. Despite the higher prices, the experience remains accessible and inviting, making it a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Turkish cuisine in a refined and atmospheric setting.

Overall Review of Mangal II

Having explored the evolution, refined food offerings, and pricing and atmosphere of Mangal II, it is now time to provide an overall review of London’s most-loved Turkish grill.

• Mangal II’s impact on Turkish cuisine in London: Mangal II has made a significant impact on Turkish cuisine in London by introducing the authentic charcoal ocakbasi cooking from Istanbul in the early 1990s. It has become a go-to destination for those seeking the true flavors and experience of Turkish cuisine.

• The role of social media in Mangal II’s success: Social media has played a crucial role in Mangal II’s success. With their sassy and engaging Twitter account, they have created a strong online presence and engaged with customers in a unique way. Their banter with Mumford and Sons and local hipsters has garnered attention and increased their popularity.

• Freedom to indulge: Mangal II offers a dining experience that allows patrons the freedom to indulge in flavorful and indulgent Turkish dishes. From juicy lamb chops to bountiful borek and squeaky hellim cheese, the menu offers a range of options for everyone to enjoy.

Mangal II’s impact on Turkish cuisine in London, the role of social media in their success, and the freedom to indulge in their delicious offerings make it a must-visit for food lovers seeking an authentic Turkish dining experience.

Unique Drink Choices and Restaurant History

Mangal II’s unique drink choices and rich restaurant history contribute to its allure as London’s most-loved Turkish grill. The restaurant offers unique drink pairings that perfectly complement their flavorful dishes. One popular choice is the Picklerak, a cloudy and ice-cold raki chased with fermented turnip juice. This refreshing combination adds a delightful twist to the dining experience. Additionally, Mangal II’s location holds historical significance, further enhancing its appeal. The restaurant was one of the first to introduce charcoal ocakbasi cooking from Istanbul to the UK in the early 1990s. Over the years, it has become a staple in the London food scene, attracting locals and tourists alike. The restaurant’s longevity and commitment to quality have solidified its reputation as a beloved institution.