Turquoise
2147 W. Roscoe

The Basics

Where you’ll find it: 2147 W. Roscoe, in the heart of Roscoe Village, just one block west of Damen. (773) 549-3523.

When it’s open: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday.

Reservations: Not required, but recommended.

What you’ve heard: Great little gem not known by many. ... Unique Turkish and Mediterranean menu with excellent food quality, price and selection.

Visual Aids
First impressions: We were greeted by a host with a welcoming handshake, as he acknowledged our reservation and quickly sat us while we waited for other expected guests in the party. ... It was quiet at first, but by 8 p.m., the restaurant was generally full.

The atmosphere: Small and quaint with charming decor and a nice side bar with a vast liquor and wine selection. ... Perfect for a date or a small group setting. Room for one or two large groups, too, and it looks like a fun spot for that. But get reservations for a large group.

The Experience

At your service: Unfortunately, the customer service went a bit downhill once we sat to eat. Our waiter addressed us in a hurried manner and sighed of frustration when we had questions related to the menu. He left us for quite some time without taking a drink order. This was quite unexpected, because we have been to Turquoise before and the service has been outstanding. It was also unexpected because the restaurant was not busy at the time. Later, when the restaurant became a bit busier, the service from the same waiter got better. Go figure! Fortunately, we were provided fresh, warm bread accompanied by a unique and tasty spread. ... When we attempted to order drinks, we were informed that two of the beers listed were not available (one of the Turkish imports and the Israeli import). We were later told the same with regard to one of our appetizers and one of our entree selections. It was explained that the menu had not been updated for some time.

Get your drink on: There is a large selection of wines (even a $20 bottle list) and specialty cocktails available, including martinis, tropical fruity drinks and never-before-seen imported beers. ... We had one of the Turkish imports and a lime margarita. Both were very good. We did not order any, but the martinis delivered to the table next to us caught our eye.

Menu variety and prices: Great variety in menu options, from vegetarian to a combination of appetizing and unique meat options (lamb, Turkish kabobs, seafood and steak). The vegetable sides were unique and had a seasonal touch. Most entrees are right around $15 each, with some closer to $20. The lunch menu features the same entrees for roughly half the price — highly recommended!

Description of what you did decide on: The food was tantalizingly delectable and picture perfect on the plate. We got an order of their hummus appetizer and lentil soup, and both were flavorful. ... I ordered a stewed lamb dish served over eggplant and was blown away (Lamb Bergendi). The lamb virtually melted in my mouth. ... The Turquoise Mix was a hit for two of us. The Mix included two large kabobs having, among other things, shrimp, salmon, chicken and scallops on each skewer over a bed of flavor-filled dirty rice. The chicken was particularly outstanding. ... The lamb shanks were also a hit (Rack of Lamb). Again, highly recommended. A complimentary dessert was served — perhaps in recognition of the service provided to us that evening. It was a chocolate cake medallion stuffed with a melted and oozy chocolate filling surrounded by strawberries and garnished with drizzled dark chocolate and cinnamon. It was large enough to be shared by all.

Something that caught your eye: At 7:30, the restaurant was quiet and guests were scarce, but boy did it sure did pick up shortly after 8:00. Thereafter, the atmosphere was energized and exciting. The crowd was quite a mix from young and trendy 20-somethings to authentic Middle Eastern families.

What you’ll tell your friends: Great food and atmosphere at prices that won’t make your wallet cry. ... We all left here filled to the gill with our taste buds happy. ... I would definitely return and hope that our waiter was just having a bad day. As mentioned before, in the past, the service has been outstanding.

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