July 2nd 2024.
The Counter, a trendy Turkish grill, has recently become the talk of the town. Rumors of mouth-watering dishes such as white chocolate babaganoush and almond-flaked lamb chops have been circulating, causing quite a stir in the foodie community. And now, renowned Turkish chef Kemal Demirasal has opened a second location in the heart of Soho, adding even more excitement to the mix. But the question on everyone's mind is, does this new restaurant live up to its highly acclaimed Notting Hill counterpart?
After visiting the new Soho establishment, I can confidently say that it certainly does. With a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu filled with legendary dishes, The Counter is a must-visit for any food lover. Not to mention, it also boasts a secret speakeasy bar that I would love to keep to myself. The vibe of the restaurant fits perfectly in Soho, with its exposed brick walls, floor-length black drapes, and dimly lit spotlights creating a sexy and intimate ambiance. And on the bustling Thursday night that I visited, the chic restaurant was overflowing onto its Kingly Street terrace, adding to the vibrant energy of the area.
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The food at The Counter is inspired by the traditional Turkish method of open fire grill cooking, known as ocabkasi. With a heavy use of ingredients like olive oil, sumac, and pistachio, the menu is a true reflection of Turkish cuisine. However, the new Soho location has a more Aegean influence, offering dishes like succulent red prawns and perfectly grilled sea bass. But let's not forget about the small plates, which are equally as delicious and can easily steal the show. From the halloumi saganaki drizzled with truffle honey and mango chutney, to the smoky and spicy sivri peppers, and the juicy tomato salad, each dish is bursting with flavor. And of course, no meal at The Counter is complete without trying the heavenly babaganoush.
While the main dishes are a highlight, the desserts left something to be desired. We opted for the baklava cheesecake, which was a bit too heavy and dense to finish after indulging in the already generous portion sizes.
But the real hidden gem of The Counter is their speakeasy bar, Under The Counter. Tucked away downstairs, this atmospheric "listening" bar is a must-visit. The impressive hi-fi system adds to the ambiance as you sip on expertly crafted cocktails and listen to the sounds from the open kitchen. And according to Chef Kemal, this bar has a story to tell. Sitting face-to-face with the bartenders as they mix your drinks, you may just pick up some mixology tips along the way. While there is an excellent selection of wine on the menu, the house cocktails are a must-try. My personal favorites were the refreshing Istanbul and the smoky and caramel-heavy Kazandibi.
Now, let's talk about the prices. As someone who tends to shy away from "sharing plates" restaurants, I was pleasantly surprised by the affordability of The Counter. The portion sizes are generous, making the concept of sharing dishes more manageable. And with small plates starting at a reasonable price and larger mains ranging from £22, it's not too hard on the wallet. Even the more expensive items, such as the £55 tuna wagyu, are designed for sharing between two or more people.
The service at The Counter is top-notch, with a polite and efficient team that seems well-versed despite the restaurant's recent opening. Our waiter, Alejandro, was not only friendly and personable but also knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations for both food and drinks. Trust me when I say, if Alejandro suggests a cocktail, you'll want to try it.
For those looking to visit The Counter Soho, here's some helpful information. The restaurant is located at 15 Kingly Street, just a five-minute walk from Oxford Circus tube station. It is open Monday from 5 PM to 11 PM, Tuesday to Wednesday from 12 PM to 12 AM, Thursday to Saturday from 12 PM to 11 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 8 PM. Reservations can be made on their website, thecounterlondon.com/soho.
In conclusion, The Counter in Soho is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience delicious Turkish cuisine in a trendy and intimate setting. With its mouth-watering dishes, secret speakeasy bar, and affordable prices, it's no wonder it has gained a mythical status in the foodie community. So next time you're in the area, don't hesitate to stop by and see for yourself why The Counter is the talk of the town.
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