Mangal 1

The word ‘legend’ is bandied around a little too often these days but when it comes to Mangal 1, it’s accurate. This is Dalston’s original Turkish ocakbaşı, opened in 1991 (before even Gökyüzü on Green Lanes), and it’s still expertly grilling meats in one of London’s liveliest dining rooms. There’s always an eager gang of people that spill outside Arcola Street, as well as a polite line opposite the counter waiting to pick up for takeaway. 

Eating in is what you want to do though. Call ahead, try your luck on the night, and bring a couple of bottles. It’s BYOB, after all. The main dining room is perma-heaving, often with 20-person birthday groups cracking bottles of Blossom Hill and ripping into flatbread and salad that’s on your table within seconds. Everything that comes off the grill is spot on, from perfectly spiced kofte to pink lamb chops, but pay special attention to the sweetbreads. They’re very good. Although always popular with crowds, it’s worth knowing that Mangal 1 is just as good for two as it is for three, four, five, or six people. Not everyone you bring has to be a legend, as Mangal 1 will do the work for you.

photo credit: Koray Firat

photo credit: Koray Firat

photo credit: Koray Firat

photo credit: Koray Firat

photo credit: Koray Firat