Little Istanbul

Little Istanbul brings the vibrant, authentic flavours of Turkey to the heart of Greenway, Australian Capital Territory. This family-owned and operated Turkish restaurant has been a beloved fixture in the Canberra food scene since opening its doors in 2007. Located within the bustling South.Point Tuggeranong shopping centre at 9b/210 Anketell Street, Little Istanbul offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where every guest is treated like family. With a steadfast commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes, the restaurant has earned a loyal following, reflected in its impressive 4.3-star rating on Google Maps from over 700 reviews. Whether you're stopping in for a quick lunch, enjoying a leisurely dinner, or ordering takeaway, Little Istanbul delivers a memorable culinary journey through Turkey's diverse regional cuisine.

The menu at Little Istanbul is a celebration of classic Turkish gastronomy, curated to offer something for every palate. From sizzling grilled kebabs and hearty meat dishes to fresh, vibrant salads and rich vegetarian options, each plate is prepared with care. Google Maps reviewers frequently highlight the restaurant's signature dishes, including the famous Iskender, the trios of dips, and the perfectly charred Sis Tavuk and Lamb Sis Kebabs. One reviewer declared the Iskender their "favourite dish so far in Canberra," while another proclaimed it the "best PIDE IN WHOLE CANBERRA," praising the friendly and efficient staff. The restaurant's extensive menu, detailed across lunch, dinner, and takeaway offerings, is designed to accommodate everything from solo diners to large group banquets.

Menu Highlights and Signature Dishes

The culinary heart of Little Istanbul lies in its diverse menus, which are thoughtfully divided into lunch, dinner, and takeaway options. This structure ensures that whether you have 30 minutes or a full evening, you can experience Turkish cuisine at its finest. The restaurant's owners, led by Kadir, have focused on accessibility and quality since the beginning, ensuring that high-quality Turkish food is available at a reasonable price point. The menu features a wide array of traditional dishes that have been perfected over nearly two decades of service.

The Famous Iskender and Grilled Kebabs

A standout dish that receives consistent acclaim is the Iskender. This classic Turkish creation features thinly sliced grilled lamb or chicken served over pieces of pide bread, generously topped with hot tomato sauce and a dollop of creamy yogurt. The dish is finished with sizzling butter poured at the table, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond just taste. Google Maps reviews are filled with praise for the Iskender, with one recent diner simply stating, "Finally, an iskender. You must try it here." The Adana and Sis kebabs, available with chicken or lamb, are also cornerstones of the menu. Reviewers frequently note the meat's succulence and the perfect char from the grill, with one local guide commenting, "The meat was juicy, fresh, and perfectly cooked, the bread was soft and just the right amount of crispy."

Pides and Dips: A Taste of Tradition

Little Istanbul has earned a reputation, highlighted by Google Maps reviewers, for serving some of the best Pide in Canberra. Pide, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is a boat-shaped flatbread baked with a variety of toppings such as minced meat, cheese, spinach, and eggs. The restaurant's version is praised for its perfectly chewy yet crispy dough and generous, flavourful toppings. An essential start to any meal is the Trio of Dips, a popular entrée that allows guests to sample a selection of house-made hummus, baba ghanoush, and other vibrant mezes, served with warm, freshly baked bread.

The Dining Experience at Little Istanbul

More than just a meal, a visit to Little Istanbul is an experience defined by its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. The restaurant describes its ambiance as "always warm and inviting," a sentiment echoed across hundreds of Google Maps reviews. Customers consistently mention the friendliness of the staff, using words like "great," "warm," and "genuinely welcoming." One detailed review from Jen Thompson captioned a "wonderful experience," noting that "The service was equally impressive. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, making the entire experience enjoyable from start to finish." This level of hospitality, combined with the rich, comforting aromas of grilled meat and spices, creates an environment where both regulars and first-time visitors feel immediately at home.

Dine-In, Takeaway, and Contactless Delivery

Understanding the diverse needs of its patrons, Little Istanbul offers multiple service options. As a full-service dine-in restaurant, it provides a comfortable setting for everything from intimate dinners to family celebrations. The popular Grand Banquet is often chosen for group gatherings, with one reviewer mentioning it was "really good" for a birthday celebration. For those who prefer to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine at home, efficient takeaway and contactless delivery services are available. The restaurant is also listed on leading delivery platforms like Uber Eats, Menulog, and DoorDash, making it easy to order favourites from a dedicated takeaway menu. Online ordering is directly available through their website.

Customer Reviews & Ratings on Google Maps

Little Istanbul holds a solid 4.3-star rating on Google Maps, based on 712 reviews, indicating a high level of consistent customer satisfaction. A deep dive into reviewer feedback reveals several recurring themes that define the restaurant's reputation. The most frequently praised aspects are the authentic taste of the food, the generous portion sizes, and the exceptional customer service.

Reviewers from the Google Maps platform repeatedly emphasize the quality and presentation of the dishes. Jen Thompson, a local guide, stated, "The food was absolutely delicious, fresh, flavourful, and beautifully presented. Every dish was full of authentic taste and generous portions." Another reviewer, M. AKYUZ, experienced similar delight, saying, "The kebabs were just delicious! The meat was juicy, fresh, and perfectly cooked... The portions were generous and the sauces completed it perfectly." The recurring mentions of fresh ingredients and generous helpings underscore the family-run philosophy of providing value and quality.

The service is another standout, with countless reviews mentioning the attentiveness and genuine warmth of the staff. One particularly moving review from Aditya Grama detailed the "best customer experience I've had my whole life" during a family birthday, where the staff offered complimentary baklava and were "super accommodating" despite a late arrival. Even a more mixed review from Shahnawaz Chundrigar, who found the taste "somewhat mixed," praised the "great" staff and ambiance, along with the "good selection of vegetarian dishes." A common tip from enthusiastic diners is to not miss out on the desserts, with the baklava receiving special mention.

Little Istanbul in the Greenway and Tuggeranong Area

Little Istanbul is conveniently situated at 9b/210 Anketell Street in Greenway, Australian Capital Territory, 2900. The restaurant is located within the South.Point Tuggeranong shopping centre, a prominent retail and entertainment hub in the Tuggeranong Valley. This central position makes it an ideal destination for locals and a convenient stop for shoppers and visitors exploring the area. Being inside a major shopping complex offers ample parking and easy access via public transport, enhancing the overall customer experience.

The Greenway area is a key activity centre, and Little Istanbul's location places it perfectly to serve the surrounding suburbs and the broader Canberra community. The restaurant has been a fixture in this location since 2007, building a loyal customer base within the Tuggeranong region. While a specific service area isn't defined on their website, the availability of delivery through partnerships with Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Menulog extends their reach significantly. Customers can enjoy Little Istanbul's menu from the comfort of their homes across a wide section of southern Canberra. The ground-floor location within South.Point ensures easy accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a family-friendly choice.

Hours, Reservations, and Contact Information

Little Istanbul operates with generous hours seven days a week, opening from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This consistent all-week schedule allows patrons to enjoy Turkish cuisine for breakfast-style coffee and pastries, a hearty lunch, or a relaxed dinner any day of the week.

Making a reservation is straightforward and recommended, especially during peak hours and for dinner service. The restaurant's official website features a direct online booking form for both lunch and dinner. For larger groups or special occasions, such as banquet bookings for birthdays or corporate events, contacting the restaurant directly is advisable to ensure arrangements are tailored to specific needs. Bookings can be made by calling (02) 6293 4383, sending an email to bookings@littleistanbul.com.au, or using the contact form on their website. For added convenience, direct online ordering is also available through the website for takeaway and delivery.

Events and Catering Services

Beyond its daily restaurant service, Little Istanbul extends its culinary expertise to off-site events and catering. The restaurant offers a tailored, bespoke catering menu suitable for a variety of functions, from corporate meetings and office parties to private celebrations such as birthdays and anniversaries. The catering team works with clients to create a custom menu that reflects the authentic Turkish flavours Little Istanbul is known for, ensuring the food becomes a standout feature of any event. According to the restaurant's website, they strive to provide a menu that will leave guests "raving about the delicious food." For inquiries about tailor-made menus, pricing, and availability, customers are encouraged to contact the restaurant directly via phone or email.

Common Questions

What are Little Istanbul's opening hours?

Little Istanbul is open Monday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Does Little Istanbul offer takeaway and delivery?

Yes, Little Istanbul provides both takeaway and contactless delivery. You can order takeaway directly through their website or find them on delivery platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Menulog.

Is it possible to make a reservation at Little Istanbul?

Yes, reservations can be made for lunch and dinner. You can book a table directly on the restaurant's website, by calling (02) 6293 4383, or by emailing bookings@littleistanbul.com.au.

Are there vegetarian options available on the menu?

Yes, the menu includes a good selection of vegetarian dishes. Google Maps reviewers have specifically noted and appreciated the vegetarian options, which include dishes like meze platters, dips, and salads.

Does Little Istanbul cater for large groups and events?

Yes, the restaurant can accommodate group bookings and offers a banquet menu for functions. They also provide tailored off-site catering for corporate and private events. Contact the restaurant directly to discuss your requirements.

Where exactly is Little Istanbul located?

Little Istanbul is located at 9b/210 Anketell Street in Greenway, Australian Capital Territory, 2900. It is situated inside the South.Point Tuggeranong shopping centre.

For those seeking an authentic Turkish dining experience backed by years of community trust and glowing reviews, Little Istanbul is a standout destination in Canberra's south. Browse more local favourites and compare verified customer feedback on Ilistify to find the perfect restaurant for your next meal out.