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Rice pudding and lentil soup

A bowl of lentil soup followed by rice pudding is a classic, nourishing combination.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Turkish restaurant

Mom and pop Turkish restaurant with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and a small dining room. The place offers authentic flavors like lahmacun and doner that reflect traditional tastes. Each table features a bottle of Turkish cologne serving as hand sanitizer, adding a cultural touch.

Creamy texture stands out in the rice pudding here, known locally as suktash. Staff often recommend it as a popular dessert choice.

Simple yet exquisite red lentil soup stands out with a comforting, homemade feel. It pairs well with sigara borek and complements other dishes like Chicken Adana and salads.

People are saying

"I experienced phenomenal, fresh, and authentic Turkish food."

"I found the lentil soup to be very tasty and well-balanced."

"The rice pudding here is so creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Large groups need to make reservations.

2

Be careful when going to the toilet, the floor slips from oil.

3

One plate is enough for two people.

02
Heights Falafel image 1
Falafel restaurant

Small, hole-in-the-wall falafel spot with cozy interior and outdoor seating near a promenade offering Manhattan views. Atmosphere feels easy-going and unassuming, marked by warm hospitality and quick service. Regulars return for what many consider some of the best falafel and baklava around.

Rice pudding comes as a complementary bowl and pairs well with the falafel sandwich. It tastes light and refreshing and matches the quality of familiar rice puddings.

Offers tasty lentil soup that pairs well with falafel. Serves a 16oz container for $4, making it a good value option.

People are saying

"This falafel is amazing, honestly one of the best I've ever had."

"I found the rice pudding delicious and refreshing."

"I thought the lentil soup was really tasty and delicious."

Good to know

1

The chicken shawarma plate costs $10, while the falafel sandwich is $5.

2

Expect a line down the block during peak hours.

3

Limited seating is available, so plan accordingly.

03
Falafel Bites image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy Mediterranean spot offers a warm atmosphere with a fun board game theme. Enjoy creamy rice pudding that's perfectly sweet and homemade lentil soup served warm and flavorful. The place blends Middle Eastern hospitality with a modern, minimalist style.

Rice pudding features a creamy texture with perfectly cooked rice and is not too sweet. It stands out as incredible and often ordered multiple times a week.

Subtle and full of flavor, the lentil soup is homemade and not from a supplier. It comes very warm and is flavorful but not overwhelming, often served as a free sample that many enjoy thoroughly.

People are saying

"I found the falafel here to be the best I've had in NYC."

"The lentil soup here is rich, creamy, and amazing."

"I found the rice pudding heavenly and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours as food is made fresh.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

04
Antalia NYC Restaurant/Caterer image 1

Spacious dining areas blend Turkish-inspired decor with warm lighting and verdant outdoor seating. Chill Turkish music sets a relaxing atmosphere that suits both casual meals and private gatherings. Seating arrangements accommodate families with high chairs, and occasional soccer games add a lively touch.

Cold rice pudding serves as a delicious dessert here. It pairs well with other sweets like cheesecake and offers a great way to end a meal.

The lentil soup stands out as a delicious and reliable starter. The mercimek corbasฤฑ, or red lentil soup, consistently delivers strong flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully seasoned."

"I thought the lentil soup was delicious and flavorful."

"I enjoyed the cold rice pudding as a great way to end our meal."

Good to know

1

Come before 6pm if you prefer a certain table, as groups of 4 to 8 stream in after 6pm.

2

An 18% tip is added to the bill without asking if you want it.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

05
Sahara's Turkish Cuisine image 1
Turkish restaurant

Space combines traditional Turkish dรฉcor with contemporary design, creating a cozy and warm atmosphere that feels authentic and inviting. Soft live music and a friendly environment enhance the relaxed vibe. A bar serving Turkish Raki and Efes beer adds a distinctive cultural touch.

Rice pudding comes with a gentle sweetness and a smooth texture. It often arrives with Turkish tea or a candle for special occasions.

Red lentil soup stands out with its rich flavor and a bright touch of lemon. It ranks as a favorite Turkish dish for many, often noted as better than versions found in Turkey.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and fresh."

"It's so cozy and warm in here, I could linger for hours."

"Their rice pudding is delicious and not overly sweet."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special.

2

The restaurant does not allow eating items that are not on the menu.

3

Beware the portion sizes are huge.

06
Istanbul Bay Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Outdoor patio with heated garden and fireplace offers a cozy, tropical vibe. Lentil soup is smooth with a lemony twist, paired with balloon bread. Rice pudding is creamy and often served as a kind gesture, adding a sweet finish.

Creamy texture and delicate flavor define the rice pudding here. It often comes as a kind gesture with orders, adding a sweet finish to meals.

Lentil soup comes as a puree with a lemony twist. It pairs well with balloon bread and offers a smooth, mild flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The rice pudding was delicate, creamy, and delicious."

"The lentil soup here is like a puree and amazing."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own bottle (BYOB) with no corking fee.

2

There is valet parking at Istanbul Bay.

3

The restaurant is only 5 minutes away from the Staten Island ferry terminal.

07
Akdeniz Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a warm and friendly atmosphere with authentic Turkish decor and a spacious layout that avoids typical city crowding. The environment is lively and often loud, making it unsuitable for quiet conversations. A well-stocked bar complements the setting with a variety of drinks.

Rice pudding stands out with its good flavor and absence of raisins. It pairs well with other desserts like baklava and is a highlight alongside falafels.

Red lentil soup offers layers of flavors with a hint of mint. It tastes very delicious and pairs well with grilled dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and fresh."

"I found the lentil soup to be amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the amazing rice pudding here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 22:00 with a buy one get one free offer.

2

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

A party of 6 has to pay a 20% gratuity automatically.

08
Lale Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Restaurant offers a mom-and-pop style with simple decor and spacious seating that avoids crowding. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, suitable for meals or casual tea and conversation. Small section sells Turkish packaged goods, adding to the authentic experience.

Creamy texture stands out in their rice pudding, known as sรผtlaรง. It pairs well with other dishes like manti and baklava.

Red lentil soup stands out with its rich flavor and smooth texture. It pairs well with kebabs and mixed grill dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and tasted fresh."

"I found the lentil soup to be especially delicious."

"You have to try the creamiest rice pudding here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers fresh, non-frozen food daily.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.

3

The portions are large enough for three adults to share.

09
ABA Turkish Restaurant image 1
Turkish restaurant

Turkish restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a warm and inviting atmosphere featuring modern yet cozy decor and a quiet, relaxed vibe away from hustle. The interior blends Turkish design elements with a clean, spartan style and nicely spaced tables. Guests enjoy Turkish beer and unique dishes like Manti and well-cooked lamb.

Rice pudding here varies from decent to great, often mentioned alongside baklava as a standout dessert.

Authentic flavor stands out in the lentil soup, capturing a true taste of Turkey. It pairs well with fresh sides like shepherd salad and offers a satisfying alternative to fast food.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the grilled meats, is fresh and delicious."

"I thought the rice pudding was the best I had."

"I've never had lentil soup this tasty before."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurant.

2

An 18% gratuity is added on top of the bill regardless of service quality.

3

There is no cork charge for bringing your own bottle.

10
Chicken Gyro Galaxy image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant with a casual, pizza-place style and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Space feels clean and cute, evoking a sense of being in Greece. Known for fresh ingredients and authentic Mediterranean flavors.

Rice pudding comes as a generous dessert often served on the house. It tastes very tasty and is a common sweet finish after meals.

Lentil soup offers a comforting, warm flavor. Staff sometimes serve it on the house, adding a friendly touch.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and excellent."

"I especially loved their lentil soup."

"I thought the rice pudding was very tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers daily lunch specials that provide great value.

2

Expect large portion sizes for all menu items.

3

Both takeout and dine-in options are available.

11
Kabuli Grill image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a modern elegant design with a cozy ambiance and friendly atmosphere. Spacious seating and a large party hall accommodate gatherings and private events. Features include a prayer room and an open backyard area for hookah.

Finishing the meal with rice pudding or firnee is common. The rice pudding tastes very good and is a popular choice.

Fresh, lemony, and lightly spiced flavors define the lentil soup here. It offers a comforting, full-bodied taste that pairs well with dishes like braised lamb shank and mantu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reminds me of homemade Afghan food."

"The mango lassi here is perfectly sweet and refreshing."

"The lentil soup is fresh, lemony, and lightly spiced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The average cost per person is around $20-$30 for a meal.

12
TRUVA Cafe & Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers cozy indoor seating and a heated back patio with outdoor dining options. Atmosphere blends loud Turkish taverna music with a warm, inviting vibe suitable for relaxed meals. Open kitchen and party room add to the spacious, casual setting.

Thick clotted cream and balanced sweetness make the rice pudding dangerously good. It consistently impresses with rich texture and great taste.

Hearty and seasoned perfectly, the lentil soup has a rich flavor that reminds of lobster bisque and brings a taste of Istanbul. It stands out as a delicious and highly recommended dish.

People are saying

"I highly recommend the lentil soup; it's delicious and seasoned perfectly."

"I thought the homemade bread was amazing."

"The rice pudding is dangerously good, made with thick clotted cream."

Good to know

1

They have an $18 special between 11am-3pm with appetizer, soda, and main course included.

2

The restaurant does not serve tap water and only sells bottled water.

3

There is a 2.5% debit and credit card fee added to the bill.

13
Turkuaz Halal Turkish Mediterranean image 1

Rustic interior decorated with Turkish ornaments creates an authentic Mediterranean dining space. Warm, quiet atmosphere supports conversation while live Turkish music adds cultural energy. Spacious seating includes semi-private areas and outdoor options, welcoming groups and families.

Sweet and creamy, the rice pudding stands out as a dessert that many find enjoyable. It pairs well with drinks like Ayran and brewed tea, offering a satisfying end to the meal.

Red lentil soup stands out with flavorful and generous servings. It pairs well with mixed kebabs and grill platters, offering a satisfying start to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The lentil soup here is fresh, comforting, and on point."

"I enjoyed the sweet and excellent rice pudding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the 'Night of Nations' event due to high demand.

2

A grill plate for two people with appetizers costs $200.

3

You can only tip in cash at Turkuaz.

14
Sami's Kabab House image 1
Afghan restaurant

Interior features high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and huge windows that create a spacious and beautiful setting. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with Farsi music adding to the homey vibe. The place often fills up, bringing lively energy and a sense of hospitality.

Creamy texture defines the rice pudding here, often served as firni with cardamom, rose water, and pistachio flavors. Portions come generous and the dessert adds a fragrant, subtle finish to meals.

The lentil soup features a unique blend of spices and is consistently well-seasoned. It pairs well with dishes like the vegetarian platter and lamb kebab.

People are saying

"The kebabs were perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful."

"The lentil soup here is so tasty and has a unique blend of spices."

"They always gave us free rice pudding to go."

Good to know

1

A 20% service charge is automatically added to the bill for parties of two or more.

2

The restaurant charges for water and does not offer free tap water.

3

Expect checks to be given at 10:30 PM, even if the restaurant remains open.

15
The Blaze Gourmet, Burger-Gyro-Vegan Kofteh image 1

Turkish restaurant with cozy decor and a central fireplace creates an inviting vibe that feels both elegant and comfortable. Seating expands after renovation, though indoor space remains a bit tight. Atmosphere suits quiet brunches and relaxed chats.

Creamy and sweet textures define the rice pudding here, with a richness that stands out. Opinions vary, but many find it notably indulgent and flavorful.

Lentil soup varies here, sometimes tasting like yellow water with no flavor, other times it comes out really good and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is ridiculously delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the homemade rice pudding was the best I ever had."

"I really liked the lentil soup here."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms for customers; it is mostly a to-go spot.

2

The place is often not open during its supposed hours.

3

The burger combo costs $20.

16
Anatolia image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Spacious Mediterranean restaurant with Ottoman style decor and large group seating creates an authentic and elegant atmosphere. Live and house music enhance the welcoming and vibrant vibe, complemented by outdoor dining options and a dedicated celebration corner.

Rice pudding serves as a sweet ending to the meal. It tastes absolutely delicious and pairs well with savory dishes like lamb chops.

Red lentil soup stands out with its rich flavor and smooth texture. It pairs well with other dishes like the mixed lamb grill and Mediterranean salad.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and of high quality."

"The Lentil Soup here is served with such attentive and friendly service."

"I thought their rice pudding was absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

The New Year's Eve party features live music and special cake presentations.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during special events like birthdays and New Year's Eve.

3

Parking is limited, with a shared lot often overflowing.

17
Mediterranean Kebab House image 1
Turkish restaurant

Interior features beautiful European decor that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The vibe is relaxed and cozy, encouraging long conversations in a comfortable setting. Staff activity can be noticeable, adding a dynamic energy to the space.

Rice pudding has a Turkish flavor and costs about $12. It stands out as an exceptional dessert alongside other appetizers.

Lentil soup comes without a tomato base and serves with a warm, not hot temperature. Occasionally, it contains unexpected items like plastic, and prices can be around $11 per bowl.

People are saying

"I thought the food was excellent and very tasty."

"I loved their excellent rice pudding; it tasted like I was in Turkey."

"I found the lentil soup very good, made without tomato base."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 18% gratuity is added to all dine-in bills.

2

Expect a 3% credit card processing fee on all transactions.

3

Bottled water is charged; tap water is not served.

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