Customers return to the authentic spot ‘time and time again’
Osman Macit, the restaurant’s owner, said that the ‘atmosphere’ inside Konak is what makes it stand out. (Image: Konak Leicester)
A restaurant with “timeless” warmth is up for one of the best in Leicester as part of our Leics Eat awards.
Konak, an authentic Turkish restaurant located in the heart of the city, has served tens of thousands of people since it opened its doors in May 2015.
The London Road eatery prides itself on making those who dine there feel “genuinely cared for” while indulging them with a spice-infused feast.
Its menu features cold meze, hot meze, fish, wraps and Turkish pizzas alongside charcoal-grilled meats including steaks, chicken and lamb.
Among its most popular dishes is the chicken shish and lamb shawarma wrap; with Konak ensuring its food “exceeds” the highest standards.
Konak’s owner, Osman Macit, said what makes the restaurant stand out most is its atmosphere which is inspired by Anatolian history.
Anatolia was historically called Asia Minor, now modernly known as the Asian part of Turkey.
Osman told LeicestershireLive: “To understand the atmosphere at Konak you have to look back at the history of Anatolia and the ancient Silk Road.
“For centuries, Asia Minor was the great crossroads of the world where spice merchants, travelers, and diverse cultures converged.
“Along these trade routes, hospitality was a revered cultural tradition. Travelers would arrive at a ‘Konak’ – historically a grand mansion or estate known as a haven of warmth, rich flavors, and open generosity.
“Inside a Konak, the heart was always glowing, tables were laden with spice-infused feasts, and every visitor was received not as a stranger, but as a gift or an honoured guest.
“When opening the doors in May 2015, the vision was to bring that exact timeless Anatolian warmth directly to Leicester.
“What makes us stand out to customers is the atmosphere created within the restaurant.
“Konak was created as a modern place where diners can step off the busy street, gather around a table with family and friends, and feel genuinely cared for from the moment they sit down.
“Customers rely on the absolute consistency and quality of the meats, which strictly meet and exceed the highest industry standards.”
Konak was shortlisted alongside two other locations in our Leics Eat awards which strive to celebrate the very best food and drink across the county.
Osman said that the nomination belongs to the “loyal diners” of the restaurant.
He added: “Being shortlisted for Best Restaurant in the Leics Eat awards is an absolute honour.
“Knowing that this recognition comes directly from (Leicestershire Live) readers, the community who have welcomed and dined with us since May 2015, means everything,
“This award nomination belongs entirely to the loyal diners of Leicester who have made Konak a part of their lives for over 11 years.
“The commitment to giving them an ever-improving dining experience remains as strong as ever.”
The power to crown the winner lies firmly in your hands – only one establishment can be crowned Leicestershire’s finest.
The shortlist for the best restaurant category is:
- Konak Authentic Turkish Cuisine in Leicester
- Imperial Authentic Restaurant in Leicester
- John’s House in Mountsorrel
Each shortlisted venue will be profiled on LeicestershireLive over the coming weeks to help inform your decision.
How to vote
You can vote for your favourite now from our shortlist using the form below. Votes left in the comments on social media or on our website will not be counted.
