On a bustling market day in Cirencester, often dubbed the ‘capital of the Cotswolds’, it was unsurprising to find many eateries fully booked. Without the foresight to reserve a table during our gentle stroll around the town centre, we initially considered the tempting array of takeaway treats offered by the market stalls. However, hoping to enjoy a peaceful sit-down meal and perhaps a glass of wine while our toddler napped in her pram, we sought out a restaurant.
The challenge was real, as our daughter’s aversion to sleep meant we were racing against the clock. After being turned away from three fully packed cafés, we stumbled upon a discreet sign on Castle Street directing us down an alleyway to a restaurant boasting a courtyard garden.
With a mix of hesitation and hope, we followed the alley past scaffolding, bins, and ventilation systems. To our surprise, the alley opened into a charming restaurant setting, where a welcoming member of staff greeted us and offered a choice of indoor or outdoor seating.
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Choosing the outdoor spot under the pleasant weather, we noticed one other occupied table where a large family praised their meals. Despite the quiet surroundings and some less appealing plastic floral décor, we decided to stay. The menu, featuring Turkish cuisine, quickly piqued my appetite.
A brief online search (momentarily breaking our spontaneous vibe) revealed Mezze Garden had been open since March and had already received outstanding reviews from more than 100 diners, alongside a five-star hygiene rating. Formerly an Italian restaurant with decades of history, the venue now uniquely serves as Cirencester’s only Turkish restaurant.
While disappointed by the absence of draught beer, the chilled bottles of Efes beer were excellent-a refreshing reminder of holidays along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. The menu offered a variety of choices, from cold and hot mezze to seafood, chef specials, steaks, and chargrilled mains.
We chose to share a cold mixed mezze platter (£17) and a personal favourite, kuzu sarma beyti (£23), a dish I often enjoyed at a Turkish restaurant we frequented. Observing the attentive, politely poised staff dressed smartly in black, we appreciated the traditional and professional service.
Our meals were served simultaneously as requested, looking as inviting as described. The mezze platter included some of the best tzatziki I’ve tasted, alongside a sweet and tangy beetroot dish, delicious hummus, cooling baba ganoush, and a garlicky spinach yoghurt dip known as ispanak tarator.
The main course featured charcoal-grilled lamb koftes wrapped in flatbread with cheese, melted butter, and tomato sauce, accompanied by yoghurt and a choice of chips or bulgar wheat. The bulgar was a standout with its nutty flavour and perfect seasoning.
By the time our toddler woke from her nap, we had nearly finished our meal, with leftover pitta providing a convenient snack. The staff warmly welcomed our daughter to the table, adding to the friendly atmosphere.
We opted not to linger for dessert, intending to sample sweets from the market, but in hindsight, I now wish we had stayed to enjoy the baklava on offer.
As we left, more diners arrived, suggesting that the word is spreading about this delightful spot. Mezze Garden may not boast the sophistication of some nearby establishments, but its rich flavours and warm hospitality make it a true hidden gem nestled off Castle Street in Cirencester.
Contact: Mezze Garden, off Castle Street, Cirencester. Tel: 01285 842303