Deniz Restaurant

I made a reservation here earlier in the day, and they got us seated real quick. The service was super friendly and efficient. We started with buffalo wings where pretty big and tasty. We also got the beef shish and adana kebab platters with no rice and extra salad. All the food is halal and it was a good meal, but a bit too pricey for what you get.

I love Deniz. Been coming here for years and the food is top notch. Even though the setting is casual, staff are also among the most excellent and elegant in Brooklyn. My only complaint is that some of their prices have crept up too high in the last few years. I used to always get the mixed grill but now it’s just a little too pricey.

For my husband's birthday, we decided to celebrate at one of his cherished Turkish restaurants, conveniently close to home. As you approach, the restaurant's unassuming exterior conceals the beauty that lies within. Once inside, the subtle Turkish decor adds a delightful Mediterranean touch. Upon entering, you'll notice a bar to the left and the main dining area, with the option for outdoor seating. We opted for a diverse dining experience, starting with cocktails and an array of appetizers, allowing us to savor our favorite flavors. My husband selected the Deniz cocktail - a delightful blend of Tequila, Aperol, passion fruit, fresh lime, and a hint of agave. I, on the other hand, went for the refreshing Whatamelon - a concoction of Ketel One, fresh watermelon, lime juice, and agave syrup. Service is impeccable and the food freshly prepared when ordered. Our appetizer selection was equally impressive: 1. **Stuffed Grape Leaves**: A Mediterranean classic done right. 2. **Pink Queens**: Roasted beets, mixed with lebni, walnut, garlic, and homemade mayo – a unique and delicious combination. 3. **Steamed Mussels**: A flavorful blend of butter, shallots, garlic, red pepper flakes, wine, mussels, lemon juice, and parsley, with a choice of white or red sauce. 4. **Zucchini Pancakes**: These pan-fried zucchini pancakes, infused with zucchini, dill, parsley, cheese, eggs, and flour, were elevated by a garlic yogurt sauce. 5. **Sigara Boregi**: Crispy phyllo scrolls filled with feta and spinach – a delightful crispy treat. 6. **Falafel Plate**: Deep-fried chickpeas and vegetables, expertly spiced with Middle Eastern flavors, served with both tahini and hummus. Each dish a celebration of Turkish culinary expertise , and we left Deniz Restaurant with our taste buds delighted and my husband's birthday wishes thoroughly fulfilled.

I like that they have multiple vegetarian options - entrees as well as salads and appetizers. I tried the vegetarian casserole and thought it tasted pretty good. I would have liked it to contain some type of vegetarian protein though. The service was more attentive than almost anywhere I’ve eaten in nyc lately - they were so on top of refilling our waters, replacing cutlery between apps and entrees, etc. it was so nice! And the space was very comfortable. It felt spacious and not too loud inside. I’d gladly go back anytime.

A Flavorful Trip to Turkey in the Heart of Brooklyn Located in the bustling heart of downtown Brooklyn, Deniz offers an enticing glimpse into the rich and diverse world of Turkish cuisine. The restaurant, with its indoor and outdoor seating options, is perfect for a casual meal or a relaxed dinner. The aesthetics of the restaurant are visually pleasing. The crimson red walls adorned with traditional Turkish hanging lamps lend an authentic touch, transporting diners to the streets of Istanbul. Tables are generously spaced and cater to both couples and larger groups, though the restroom left something to be desired with its spartan decor and a slight lack of tidiness. The menu at Deniz does not disappoint. The lamb adana kebab, served with a generous side of rice and salad, is an absolute must-try. The kebab was perfectly cooked, hot, and juicy, but the lack of peppery heat may disappoint those who crave a spicy kick. Regrettably, the traditional Turkish drink, ayran, was not available on the menu, leaving us to opt for a standard Coke. This was a slight letdown, as the drink's absence lessened the authenticity of the overall experience. For dessert, the baklava with pistachio paired with black tea was a delightful surprise. The dish, served with a dollop of whipped cream, was a welcome addition to the rich, sweet baklava. The three-piece of baklava serving was surprisingly generous, ensuring a satisfying end to the meal. Total meal cost for one person - ~$40, not including tips. While the all-male staff was friendly and eager to assist, the service felt a bit rushed. The speedy turnover might appeal to those in a hurry, but for diners hoping to enjoy a leisurely meal, it could detract from the overall dining experience. In conclusion, Deniz offers a largely satisfying Turkish culinary experience in Brooklyn. While there are areas for improvement, namely the restroom facilities, the lack of traditional beverages, and the rushed service, the restaurant compensates with its delightful food and warm ambiance. The authenticity of the decor and the generosity of the food servings make Deniz a worthy visit for a taste of Turkish cuisine.

We had lunch outside and it was great. The lamb shank with eggplant and mashed potatoes was perfect and so was the appetizer sampler. They were wery accommodating and attentive and it all added to a wonderful time before our show at BAM. As a note, I think the Turkish cuisine is underappreciated. It's of a vast diversity, perfected over many centuries, very elaborate, with deep flavors, healthy.