The Best Turkish Dishes in Long Island: A Culinary Journey Through Authentic Mediterranean Flavors
For over three decades, Long Island has been home to one of the most authentic Turkish dining experiences in New York State. At Pita House, located in the heart of Medford, we've been serving traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine since 1993, bringing the rich flavors of Anatolia to Suffolk County.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Turkish cuisine or curious about exploring new flavors, this guide will introduce you to the best Turkish dishes available right here on Long Island. Each dish tells a story of tradition, family recipes passed down through generations, and the perfect blend of spices that make Turkish cuisine truly special.
Must-Try Turkish Dishes at Pita House Long Island
1. Iskender Kebab - The Crown Jewel
Named after its creator, Iskender Efendi, this legendary dish features tender pieces of grilled meat served over fresh pita bread, topped with rich tomato sauce and melted butter. At Pita House, we prepare our Iskender Kebab using traditional techniques, ensuring each bite delivers the authentic taste of Bursa.
Why it's special: The combination of perfectly grilled meat, fresh bread, and our signature tomato sauce creates a symphony of flavors that has made this dish a favorite among Long Island food enthusiasts for over 30 years.
2. Adana Kebab - Spice Lover's Delight
For those who appreciate bold flavors, our Adana Kebab is a masterpiece of Turkish cuisine. Hand-ground lamb is mixed with traditional spices and grilled to perfection, delivering a spicy kick that's balanced by the freshness of our accompaniments.
Local favorite: This dish has become synonymous with authentic Turkish dining in Medford, with customers traveling from across Suffolk County to experience our traditional preparation.
3. Mini Lahmacun - Turkish Pizza Perfection
Often called "Turkish pizza," our Mini Lahmacun features thin, crispy dough topped with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs. Served in sets of four, these bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a complete meal.
Perfect for: First-time visitors to Turkish cuisine, families with children, or anyone looking for a lighter but equally satisfying dining experience.
4. Calf's Fried Liver - A Delicate Delicacy
This traditional dish showcases the art of Turkish cooking with its perfectly seasoned and fried calf liver. Tender and flavorful, it's a testament to the skill required to prepare organ meats properly in Turkish cuisine.
Why try it: Even if you're not typically a fan of liver, our preparation method and traditional seasoning create a dish that surprises and delights even the most skeptical palates.
Sweet Endings: Traditional Turkish Desserts
Baklava - The King of Turkish Sweets
Our homemade baklava is crafted using traditional techniques, with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup. Each piece is a perfect balance of crispy and chewy, sweet but not overwhelming.
Secret ingredient: We use premium pistachios and our family's traditional syrup recipe, creating a dessert that's been perfected over generations.
Kunefe - Warm Cheese Delight
This warm dessert features melted cheese between layers of shredded phyllo dough, topped with sweet syrup. Served hot, it's the perfect ending to any Turkish meal.
Best enjoyed: Fresh from the oven, when the cheese is perfectly melted and the syrup is still warm.
Why Pita House Stands Out Among Long Island Turkish Restaurants
30+ Years of Excellence
Since 1993, we've been Long Island's premier destination for authentic Turkish cuisine, building a reputation for quality and consistency.
Traditional Recipes
Our dishes are prepared using time-honored techniques and family recipes passed down through generations, ensuring authentic flavors.
Fresh Ingredients
We source the finest ingredients and prepare everything fresh daily, from our pita bread to our signature sauces and desserts.
Recognized by Leading Publications
The New York Times
"The best part of the meal was the beginning, specifically the cold appetizers... We liked the creamy baba ghanouj, which had a smoky flavor..."
Newsday
"You'll never go wrong ordering eggplant in a Turkish eatery and, at Pita House, the baba ghanoush is a smoky, creamy dream."
Ready to Experience the Best Turkish Cuisine on Long Island?
Visit us at 2016 Route 112, Medford, NY, or call (631) 289-2262 to make a reservation. We're open Monday-Thursday 11 AM-9 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-10 PM, and Sunday 12 PM-9 PM.
At Pita House Long Island, we're more than just a restaurant – we're ambassadors of Turkish culture and cuisine. Every dish we serve tells a story of tradition, family, and the love of good food. Whether you're discovering Turkish cuisine for the first time or you're a longtime enthusiast, we invite you to experience the authentic flavors that have made us Long Island's premier Turkish restaurant for over three decades.
Join us at our Medford location and discover why food critics, locals, and visitors from across Long Island continue to choose Pita House for their Turkish dining experience. Your culinary journey through the best of Turkish cuisine starts here.