Nemrut Restaurant (Southsea)

If you ever find yourself strolling down Albert Road in Southsea and catch the rich, smoky aroma of grilled meat wafting through the air, chances are it’s coming from Nemrut Restaurant (Southsea) - a gem that’s been turning heads and tempting appetites in Portsmouth. Nestled at 94 Albert Rd, this place has carved a reputation for offering authentic Turkish cuisine with a warm, welcoming vibe that’s hard to beat.

Let’s talk food. The Mixed Grill here isn’t just a dish; it’s a feast. Imagine a generous platter loaded with lamb shish, chicken shish, adana kebab, and juicy Turkish sausage (yes, the beloved sucuk). It’s flame-grilled perfection - smoky, tender, and served piping hot. What makes it stand out is the balance between charred edges and succulent interiors, a mark of proper Turkish grilling. If you're more into lamb, the Classic Lamb Shish is equally compelling - marinated just right, with every bite bursting with Middle Eastern spices.

And then there’s the Iskender Kebab, a crowd favorite that layers doner meat over chunks of pita bread, all smothered in tomato sauce and rich melted butter, served with a side of yogurt. It’s one of those dishes that make you close your eyes just to savor it better. For something a little more rustic and comforting, the Lamb Shank doesn’t disappoint. Slow-cooked until falling off the bone, it’s the kind of dish that warms your soul - hearty, fragrant, and full of flavor.

Vegetarian? No worries. Dishes like Imam Bayildi (stuffed aubergine with onions, garlic, and tomato) and Humus Kavurma offer rich, satisfying flavors without the meat. The latter adds a twist by topping creamy hummus with sizzling sautéed lamb - a combo that’s creamy, crunchy, and savory all at once.

Now let’s not skip dessert - not when Baklava is this good. Sticky, sweet, and nutty with a delicate crunch, it pairs beautifully with a cup of Turkish Coffee, which they brew strong and aromatic in traditional style. More into something cold? Their Strawberry Ice Cream is a simple, refreshing finish after a hearty meal.

But what truly elevates Nemrut is its ability to strike the right balance between authentic tradition and customer convenience. You’ve got a full spectrum of service options - dine-in for a cozy dinner, takeaway for those chill nights at home, and even no-contact delivery if you're staying in. Plus, it’s one of the few places around that serve halal food alongside beer, wine, spirits, and of course, Turkish coffee, making it suitable for diverse palates and preferences.

The atmosphere? Think casual, intimate, and very much like dining in someone’s home - if that someone were a Turkish culinary wizard. The staff are genuinely friendly, often taking time to explain dishes, offer pairing suggestions, or simply check in with a warm smile. Whether you’re coming for a weekday lunch or a long, chatty dinner, you’ll find the wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating make the experience inclusive and comfortable for everyone.

One detail that often surprises first-timers is how versatile the menu is. You could easily bring a group where some are after grilled meats, others looking for light vegetarian bites, and a few wanting to snack on Greek sausages or nibble small plates with a cold Efes beer in hand - and everyone would walk away happy. The menu even branches out occasionally with dishes like Lomo Saltado, hinting at the chef’s curiosity beyond the Mediterranean.

In a city full of cookie-cutter eateries, Nemrut Restaurant (Southsea) doesn’t just serve food; it brings people together around the shared joy of authentic flavors, good service, and relaxed dining. The fact that it manages to cater to both tradition and modern expectations - whether that’s dine-in or kerbside pickup, hearty grills or delicate vegetarian options - speaks volumes about why this spot continues to earn loyal fans across Southsea and beyond.