Barney Fisher-Turner
Istanbul Food Stylist/Food Writer

The Spice Market Review

I would like to see more establishments like The Spice Market pushing the Asian envelope in the future. I wouldn’t be surprised if this classy dining room is still ‘sitting pretty’ in ten years time; a hub for all things Asian or a brilliant shining example of how to run a fine dining restaurant that is classy, elegant and brave. Do yourself a favor and kick start your dinner with the raw salmon with Yuzu crumbs. This Japanese influenced starter is a lovely way to showcase the very best soft salmon. These citrus crumbs provide a clever texture contrast. You can have a hell of a time trying to find Yuzu in Istanbul; if you do manage to unearth a source, this lovely Asian fruit always pairs well with salmon; any fish really. The chicken Samosa with coriander yoghurt reminded me of my last trip to Mumbai; the well balanced Indian spice blend throughout the filling, the crunchy exterior and the cooling herby yoghurt combine beautifully; a perfect version of what must be one of the best snacks on the planet. You would be a fool to walk out of that dining room without experiencing what could be the finest desert in the city; the staggeringly good ‘Chocolate Kulfi’. It is very hard to describe this one to a readership; I remember moaning strangely & at one point water collected in the corner of my left eye; a quick sobering glance at the surrounding chic interior design and my decked out suited company; I was back! All the best sweet motifs were out in force; chocolate, chewy caramel, maybe condensed milk in the fold. It’s almost worth ordering two of these treats, one as it comes to be scoffed in the restaurant and a doggy bag for home. After a good nap another helping is always appreciated.

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