Hala Restaurant Green Lanes
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
Turkish cuisine in London
The "Hala Restaurant Green Lanes" in London is an established highlight of Turkish cuisine in the Harringay neighborhood, an area known for its vibrant multicultural community and especially its variety of Turkish restaurants. Since its opening in 2002, the family-run restaurant has become known as one of the most authentic representatives of traditional Turkish cuisine in the British capital. It combines homemade dishes with a warm atmosphere and attracts both regulars from the neighborhood and visitors from further afield who appreciate the quality and generosity of the dishes.
Authentic Turkish restaurant Harringay
The decor of Hala is modern, but with a warm, inviting character reminiscent of a Turkish family home - not for nothing does "Hala" mean "Aunt" in Turkish. The spacious dining room is equipped with stylish details such as metallic accents and comfortable seating that create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Particularly striking is the window display where guests can watch the chefs preparing fresh Gözleme - traditional stuffed flatbreads - by hand. For larger groups or private parties, there is a separate room that stands out for its intimacy and flexibility, making the restaurant attractive for special occasions.
Homemade dishes at Hala
Culinarily, Hala represents the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and homemade specialties. An absolute highlight is the "Manti", small dumplings filled with spiced meat and served with a creamy yogurt sauce and a hint of chili oil - a dish that is often praised as one of the best in London. Equally popular is the "Hala Special", a generous family platter offering a selection of grilled meats such as lamb chops and chicken shish, accompanied by fresh bread and crisp salads. The "Lahmacun", a thin, crispy Turkish pizza with spicy minced meat, is served fresh from the oven and is a favorite for those who prefer light but flavorful dishes. Vegetarians also have options, such as the "Falafel & Hummus Wrap", which impresses with creamy hummus and crunchy vegetables.
Best Manti in London
Side dishes and desserts complete the experience. Freshly baked flatbread is generously served, often accompanied by homemade dips like spicy Ezme, a mixture of tomatoes, peppers, and spices. Among the desserts, the "Kunefe" stands out - a sweet treat of crispy dough, melted cheese, and syrup, sprinkled with pistachios, providing a perfect ending. The drinks menu includes traditional Turkish options such as Ayran, a refreshing yogurt drink, as well as a selection of teas, often served as a complimentary ending to a meal - a sign of the hospitality that characterizes Hala.
Turkish specialties family platter
The service is another reason for the restaurant's popularity. The staff is regularly praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, with servers not only working efficiently but also happily explaining the origin of dishes or giving recommendations. While it can get a bit busy during peak times, the warmth of the team usually makes up for it. The partially open kitchen gives guests a glimpse into the preparation of the dishes and reinforces trust in the freshness of the ingredients. The option to take away or have food delivered makes Hala flexible and convenient for those who cannot experience the enjoyment on-site.
