Turks KL is more than just a restaurant; it is a heartfelt tribute to the richness of Turkish culture, served up on a plate. For the owners, food is not just about flavour – it is a bridge to their heritage, and a passport to the past and present of Türkiye’s diverse regions.
From the moment you step into Turks KL, you are transported. The décor, with its warm tones, traditional motifs, and Turkish music playing softly in the background, creates a setting that feels like a café in one of the upmarket areas in Istanbul rather than a Kuala Lumpur eatery.
The restaurant does not just mimic a modern Turkish vibe; it breathes it. Located on an end lot in the upmarket Bukit Tunku enclave, which boasts so many good restaurants, Turks KL has used the natural light and outdoor spaces to create an experience for those looking to be taken away from the traffic and rush of life in Kuala Lumpur.
What sets Turks KL apart is their unwavering dedication to authenticity. The owners, who have travelled the world to showcase Turkish cuisine, bring with them not only culinary expertise but a deep-rooted passion for storytelling through food. Each dish has a history, a village, and a family recipe behind it. The chef has a sense of Ottoman history but is also not afraid to add his own flair.
One of the highlights of the experience is the homemade bread. At Turks KL, bread is more than a side; it is a symbol of regional identity. Each type of bread is inspired by a specific Turkish region and has a purpose within each dish, where preparation methods and ingredients vary according to local customs. Some are served with herbs, others with soft cheese or olive oil, depending on where in Turkey the recipe originates.
The hot air balloon chicken stands out not just for its taste, but its meaning. Inspired by the hot air balloons of Cappadocia, this dish symbolises the restaurant’s mission, which is to bring a piece of Turkey with them wherever they go. It is a fusion of flavour and story, wrapped in the nostalgia of home.
But perhaps the star of the show is their Turkish dumplings. Comparable to Italian ravioli, these tiny parcels are filled with minced beef or chicken, wrapped in delicate dough, and served with a garlicky yogurt sauce and a touch of chilli oil. For many diners, this is the standout dish that they come to enjoy. That is not to say that the restaurant does not have a strong selection of Turkish kebabs, which are now world famous, like their Iskender, Beyti or the Adana Kebab.
Their kunefe (or kunafa) is another must-try. Unlike overly sweet versions found elsewhere, Turks KL’s kunefe is made from a secret recipe that delivers a delicate balance of crispy pastry, melted cheese, and a subtly sweet syrup. It is a refined and perfect end to a meal.
Turks KL is not just serving food; they are sharing heritage. Every plate tells a story of tradition, journey, and family. Their goal is not just to feed, but to educate, to show Malaysians and international diners alike that Turkish cuisine is as diverse, refined, and soulful as any in the world. So, for those looking for halal dishes in Kuala Lumpur, this is a great option, and for vegetarians, Turks KL also have dishes for you on the menu.
In a city with no shortage of good food, Turks KL offers something rarer: a genuine cultural experience. Whether you are there for the flavour, the history, or simply to try something new, this is a place that delivers from the heart on all fronts. Now nominated for the NHA Top 10 Restaurant Award, Turks KL has established itself as a food destination. 