Not sure what to order at a Turkish restaurant? Don’t worry; it is easier than it looks. Turkish food is built around sharing, so you simply order a few plates for the table. First, you start with small dishes. Then you move on to grilled mains. Finally, you finish with something sweet. In this guide, we walk you through each step.
Start with mezze and dips
Every great meal begins with small plates. Order a spread of assorted starters to share. Scoop up creamy chickpea dip and smoky red pepper and walnut dip with warm bread. So the table fills with flavour from the start.

Pick a grilled main
Next, choose a dish from the grill. A smoky minced-lamb kebab is a great start. Meanwhile, boat-shaped stuffed flatbread is perfect for sharing. So there is a main for every taste.
Try a shared platter
Dining as a group? Then a big platter is the way to go. A mixed grill lets everyone taste a little of everything. Meanwhile, it pairs beautifully with rice and salad. So no one has to choose just one thing.
Save room for dessert
Finish on a sweet note. Order syrupy layered pastry or cheesy golden kunafa. Meanwhile, a rich Turkish coffee rounds off the meal. So the evening ends on a high note.

For a group, think big and shareable. Order several mezze to start, then a mixed grill or a whole roast chicken. Meanwhile, add rice, salad and plenty of bread. So everyone can dig in together and share.
What to order at a Turkish restaurant for a group
What to order at a Turkish restaurant for the first time
New to the cuisine? Then keep it simple and classic. Start with hummus and bread, then try a kebab. Finish with baklava and coffee. So you get a perfect first taste without any guesswork.
Where to try it in Kuala Lumpur
Ready to order? Then visit Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Our team is always happy to guide you. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
What should you order at a Turkish restaurant first?
Start with mezze — small sharing plates like hummus and dips with warm bread. They are the perfect way to begin a Turkish meal.
What is a good Turkish dish for beginners?
A kebab with rice and salad is a safe, delicious first choice. Hummus and baklava are also easy favourites.
What should a group order?
Share several mezze, a mixed grill or whole roast chicken, plus rice, salad and bread. It suits groups of any size.