Tastes of Turkey

For a grand feel of Turkish culture and cuisine, set against the backdrop of a traditional Ottoman decor with all the flavours, aromas and sounds to boot, head to Kiyi at the Fairmont Ajman. The moment you walk in you know it’s an insta-worthy restaurant what with earthy tones and mosaic patterns in vibrant sea shades and antique-like lanterns. Add to that the sharing-style menu with classics and live entertainment, and you’re sure to be transported to another place, another time. After a look around, we decided to make the most of the pleasant weather and headed to the outdoor dining area by the beach.

We started with some Pide – flat-bread with your choice of toppings. The cheese was such a guilty pleasure, we contemplated seconds many times. Now that’s Turkish comfort food if there ever was one. For mains, we opted for the mixed platter. There was char-grilled lamb chop, Adana kebab, shish tawook, a chunk of beef and Turkish sucuk, served with grilled vegetables and bulgur pilaf. Meaty, smokey, all of it was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavours.

The mains also come with your choice of two cold mezzes and one hot one. A huge serving tray arrived with about 15 little bowls holding everything from hummus, spiced sauces, mint yogurt, pickles, to finely chopped seasonal vegetables with walnut, fresh herbs and a pomegranate sauce. Vegetarian friendly, they were all just yummy. Shisha is on offer including a shisha sommelier on hand. We ended with some baklava and kunafa with Maras-style ice cream so dense it almost made you reach for a fork and knife – perfect to end a nice meal.

Kiyi is proof that you can taste Turkey without actually going there.