Turkish restaurant Anatolia Restaurant will hold its grand opening at 5931 N. Oracle Rd. on Friday, Oct. 30. The space formerly housed Chef Alisah’s Restaurant, which closed permanently after 17 years in business.
Engin Saglam co-owns the new restaurant. He already co-owns Turkish Kebab House near the University of Arizona with his cousin, Abdi Iric. Together, the pair is bringing that same Turkish hospitality to the northwest side.
To celebrate, Anatolia will take 15% off all menu items during its first three days, Oct. 30-Nov. 1.
A name rooted in Turkish history
The restaurant takes its name from Anatolia, the ancient region that makes up much of modern-day Turkey. Saglam compared the name’s weight to that of Rome.
Construction on the space began at the start of August. The restaurant spans about 1,800 square feet and seats more than 50 guests.
Turkish flavors, with a wood-fired oven planned
Anatolia will cook with a gas oven at launch. However, Saglam said the team eventually plans to add a wood-fired oven. The concept draws comparisons to Brindis Mediterranean Cuisine, the Green Valley spot that serves wood-fired Turkish pides.
The menu centers on pide, lahmacun, kebab, and mezze. Staff prepare every dish from scratch and serve the mezzes with freshly baked bread. Vegan and gluten-free options also appear on the menu. Prices by category include:
Soups: $7.99
Salads: $11.99
Cold mezze: $7.99-$19.99
Hot appetizers: $6.99-$12.99
Grill dishes: $18.99-$26.99, served with rice, a side salad, and cacik
Lahmacun and pide: $15.99-$20.99
Seafood: $21.99-$24.99, served with rice, a side salad, and cacik for most dishes
Vegan specialties: $13.99
Kids’ menu: $8.99-$9.99
Desserts: $7.99-$8.99, including baklava, sutlac, and helva with ice cream
Hours and what to expect
Anatolia Restaurant plans to open 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. daily.
