Günaydin comes from humble beginnings - this group now has restaurants all over the world (including two restaurants in Dubai), but back in 1965 it was just a simple butchery in Istanbul’s historic ‘Bostanci’ neighbourhood. Though the restaurants are rather larger and more glamorous than that first shop, the group retains a dedication to quality produce and generous hospitality.
This flagship Dubai location is set in the stunning Souk Al Bahar - the restaurant sits right on the waterfront promenade, so guests can look out over the twinkling still waters of the Burj Khalifa Lake, as well as the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa as they enjoy a Turkish feast. The interiors are equally impressive, with wood-panelled walls contrasting a marble service counter, and forest green chairs bringing a touch of sophistication to the space. There are also outdoor tables available, perfect for Dubai’s balmier evenings.
Gunaydin specialises in meat, with a huge, roaring charcoal grill dominating the kitchen. The menu is long, and features a huge range of authentic Turkish dishes. Among the warm and cold mezze alone there are some 25 separate choices, and that’s before you get to starters and salads, oven-baked lahmacun, and stone-baked pides with various fillings.
Then comes the main event - kebabs, doners, burgers and more from the charcoal grill. Almost everything you can imagine is on the menu, but Günaydin special kebabs are worth a mention - check out the Alinazik Kebap (ground lamb kebab on aubergine and garlic yoghurt). Alternatively you can’t go wrong with classics like grilled chicken, lamb chops or something from the restaurant’s dry-aged section, which includes big sharing cuts like porterhouse, tomahawk and T-bone.
There are lots of seafood and vegan options too for those with certain dietary requirements, and don’t miss the desserts which include traditional sweets like sutlac, kunefe and kafayif pastry with ground pistachio.