The elbow-to-elbow Western and Khmer eateries along Street 172 can get very boring very quickly, so when an alternative springs up that’s cause for celebration. Turkish Delight offers authentic ethnic cuisine, such as lamb kebabs with lettuce, tomato and onion ($7). The vegetarian dipping plate – an option big enough for two – includes spinach and feta salad with hummus, jajik and eggplant for $9. For those so inclined, baklava is $2 and refreshing apple tea – highly recommended – is $1.
The place is clean and you can see your food being sliced off the revolving spits and put together from the serving trays. While you’re waiting for your meal, wander to the bathroom at the back. There, posters of the pazar (Turkish lingo for ‘market’) are so Istanbul that you can almost see Hagia Sophia in the background. The Muslims have it right: never, ever, ever – got that? – touch food without washing your hands first. Insha’Allah.
Back to the food. Why is it so right? No shawarma found here. Instead, kebabs made with Australian beef. The pita is fresh; the vegetables come from the market that morning and you can mix and mingle what you want in your meal. The music, the decoration and the ambience ooze Middle East. About the only thing missing are belly dancers and a couple of camels.
Antonio – aka Gokhan – is a Turk with a Spanish nickname. He took the circuitous route to Cambodia, first working with his uncle in Turkey for nine years. Next he ran restaurants in Australia, Germany, Switzerland and East Timor. Dili may not be on most people’s bucket list for fine dining, but UN types with money were there and his restaurant was a popular destination. Antonio’s idea is to work, travel and study as he builds up his herbalist knowledge and cooking skills.
On his second day in the Kingdom he met Harry, who runs Sundance Inn and Saloon. Over a handshake, Antonio rented the space and set up the restaurant, now tucked in beside a backpacker-type bar. If you want kebabs served so you won’t miss your shot at the pool table, that’s fine. If you want to swan in with one of Harry’s generous free-pour drinks, no problem. Both boys recognise they work better together.
Healthy options on Street 172 aren’t easy to find. Turkish Delight may be a touch more expensive than more ho-hum options in the neighbourhood, but it’s worth it if you need a break from stodge.
Turkish Delight, #61 Street 172 (next to Sundance Inn & Saloon)