Discover the authentic flavors of Turkey right in the heart of Manhattan at Sahara's Turkish Cuisine, located at 513 2nd Avenue, New York, NY. This casual yet inviting restaurant offers a delicious adventure into traditional Turkish dishes, served in a quiet, earth-toned setting that invites you to relax and savor every bite. Whether you're a local foodie, a digital nomad craving a taste of home, or a traveler seeking genuine Mediterranean cuisine, Sahara's delivers an unforgettable experience with every meal.
At Sahara's Turkish Cuisine, every dish tells a story. From the soul-warming Red Lentil Soup, praised as better than some found in Turkey itself, to the richly spiced Lamb Adana Kebab and melt-in-your-mouth Lamb Shank, the menu is a celebration of Turkish culinary heritage. The generous portions come with a side of attentive service and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or casual meals with friends. Vegetarians will find delightful options here as well, ensuring a meal for every palate.
High praise for authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Customers rave about the friendly, smiling staff and the cozy cultural ambiance that makes dining here a joy. Many note that the lamb dishes and cold appetizers are standouts, while the desserts like Baklava provide a sweet finish to an already perfect meal. Sahara's is known for bringing happiness and satisfaction to its guests, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
- What are the operating hours of Sahara's Turkish Cuisine? Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
- Does Sahara's Turkish Cuisine offer catering services? Yes, they offer various catering options, including Signature Turkish Buffet, Turkish Buffet Royale, Light Turkish/Mediterranean Buffet, and Vegetarian Buffet, suitable for gatherings of 7 or more people.
- Is Sahara's Turkish Cuisine wheelchair accessible? Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
- Does Sahara's Turkish Cuisine accept reservations? Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
- Is Sahara's Turkish Cuisine pet-friendly? Yes, pets are allowed in the restaurant.
Sahara's Turkish Cuisine stands out in New York City's vibrant food scene because it offers more than just a meal—it offers an authentic cultural experience. With flexibility for dine-in, takeout, delivery, and even catering, plus kid-friendly and pet-friendly policies, it’s a spot that welcomes everyone. The seamless payment options, friendly staff, and the delicious cocktails and wines served alongside traditional dishes make it a top choice for a memorable dining experience in Manhattan.
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 513 2nd Avenue, Sahara's Turkish Cuisine stands as a vibrant testament to the rich culinary heritage of Eastern Turkey. Founded in 2000 by four passionate siblings, this restaurant was born out of a shared dream to bring authentic Turkish flavors to the bustling streets of New York City. From the very beginning, Sahara's has been dedicated to offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere where both locals and visitors can savor genuine dishes that are steeped in tradition.
The year 2000 marked the beginning of Sahara's Turkish Cuisine, when the four siblings from Eastern Turkey united their culinary expertise and cultural roots to establish a restaurant that would offer an authentic taste of their homeland. Their vision was to create a welcoming space where guests could experience the rich, hearty flavors of Turkish cuisine crafted with care and tradition. Over the years, their dedication to authenticity and quality quickly earned Sahara's a loyal following.
In 2023, Sahara's Turkish Cuisine received a significant boost in visibility when it was featured by renowned Turkish content creators Tuna Tavus and Deli Mi Ne. These influencers praised Sahara's as their number one choice for authentic Turkish food in New York City, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to tradition and its exceptional menu offerings. This acclaim not only validated the years of hard work by the founding siblings but also introduced Sahara's to a wider audience of food enthusiasts and travelers seeking genuine Turkish dining experiences.
Today, Sahara's Turkish Cuisine is celebrated not only for its flavorful dishes but also for its warm and cozy atmosphere that invites diners to relax and enjoy a true taste of Turkey amidst the vibrant cityscape of Manhattan. Its menu features hearty traditional specialties, making it a top choice among locals and visitors craving authentic Turkish food. The restaurant remains family-run, carrying forward the founders' legacy of passionate hospitality and culinary excellence.
- 2000: Sahara's Turkish Cuisine was founded by four siblings from Eastern Turkey.
- 2023: Featured by popular Turkish content creators Tuna Tavus and Deli Mi Ne, recognized as the top authentic Turkish restaurant in NYC.
Located at 513 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10016, Sahara's Turkish Cuisine offers an inviting atmosphere that combines authentic Turkish flavors with a warm, welcoming environment. Known for its hearty dishes, this restaurant has garnered a reputation as one of the best Turkish dining spots in Manhattan.
With a focus on quality ingredients and traditional recipes, Sahara's Turkish Cuisine is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful culinary experience.
The restaurant's editorial summary describes it as a casual establishment serving hearty Turkish dishes in a quiet, earth-toned setting.
This inviting space is ideal for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
Sahara's Turkish Cuisine is a must-visit for those seeking authentic flavors and a memorable dining experience in New York City.
Pros
• Authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions
• Warm and welcoming atmosphere
• Friendly and attentive staff
• Vegetarian and gluten-free options available
• Catering and private dining services offered
Cons
• Some reviews mention issues with food quality and service
• Parking can be challenging in the area
Ideal for
Sahara's Turkish Cuisine is ideal for food lovers seeking authentic Turkish dishes, families looking for a friendly dining experience, and anyone celebrating special occasions.
Things to know before visiting
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours. The restaurant offers takeout and delivery options, making it convenient for those on the go.
Overall impression
Sahara's Turkish Cuisine stands out as a delightful destination for those craving authentic Turkish flavors in a cozy setting. With its attentive service and a menu that caters to diverse dietary needs, it promises a satisfying dining experience for all.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to stop by and enjoy a meal that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Turkey.
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 513 2nd Avenue, Sahara's Turkish Cuisine is a culinary gem offering an authentic taste of Turkey within New York City. This cozy restaurant is beloved for its warm atmosphere and friendly staff, making every visit a delightful escape to the Mediterranean.
Sahara's is renowned for its exceptional Turkish dishes that capture the rich culinary heritage of Turkey. From the legendary lentil soup praised as even better than those in Turkey, to signature dishes like lamb shank, lamb Adana kebab, and gyro, every plate is prepared with care and love. Vegetarians can also indulge in flavorful options such as falafel, hummus, and various cheese pastries.
For those looking to bring the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine to their events, Sahara's offers a variety of catering options featuring generous buffets of Turkish and Mediterranean favorites. Choose from:
- Signature Turkish Buffet (A): Hummus, lebni, falafel, Mediterranean salad, chicken kebab, gyro, baklava, white rice, hot, white and tahini sauces, bread, plates, and utensils.
- Turkish Buffet Royale (B): Hummus, babaganoush, falafel, Mediterranean salad, cheese pastries, chicken adana, grilled meatballs, baklava, white rice, hot, white and tahini sauces, bread, plates, and utensils.
- Light Turkish/Mediterranean Buffet (C): Hummus, falafel, Mediterranean salad, chicken kebab, pita bread, plates, and utensils.
- Turkish/Mediterranean Vegetarian Buffet (D): Hummus, lebni, falafel, cheese pastries, Mediterranean salad, baklava, pita bread, plates, and utensils.
Whether you are enjoying a dinner for two or a group gathering, Sahara's Turkish Cuisine provides a quiet, earth-toned setting perfect for savoring hearty Turkish meals. The restaurant welcomes children and even dogs, making it a comfortable choice for families and pet owners. You can dine in to relish each dish, order takeout, or have your meal delivered right to your doorstep.
- Dine-in and takeout available, with delivery service.
- Serves lunch, dinner, coffee, cocktails, beer, and wine.
- Friendly and attentive service that makes guests feel at home.
Visitors and locals alike praise Sahara's for its genuine Turkish flavors that stand out in New York City's diverse food scene. Guests highlight the cozy ambiance, warm hospitality, and standout dishes like the lamb Adana kebab and cold appetizers. For anyone craving an authentic Turkish meal prepared with love, this establishment is a must-visit destination.
