Gökyüzü Restaurant image

Gökyüzü Restaurant

Restaurant Turkish restaurant

One of the Most Reviewed Turkish restaurants in London


Address

Southend Road, Chingford Rd, London E4 8TA, United Kingdom

Website

gokyuzurestaurant.co.uk

Contact

+44 20 8527 4927

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.30 (6.7K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 10 AM to 12 AM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 12 AM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 12 AM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 12 AM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 12 AM
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 12 AM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 12 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: good (26) restaurant (16) staff (16) busy (15) large (14) Turkish (12) great (11) table (11) atmosphere (10) service (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Alan B. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is always busy, and it's for a good reason. The food quality is great, as are the portion sizes. It is a bit more expensive than other Turkish restaurants, but you get what you pay for.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Leigh S. 2 years ago on Google
    Went here as part of a large group so did not have the luxury of choosing the restaurant. Having seen the sign when driving past on the A406 I was very surprised at just how big this place was. There is ample car parking on site and attendants help manage this which was good. We had tables reserved for our group and were seated easily without fuss. Drinks orders were taken quickly but slow to arrive. It was a busy night so I understand times can vary. We did not need to order food as platters had been prearranged by the host. We had mixed hot and cold meze starters but was left disappointed with the hot plates. For each table (that seated 4) only 2 pieces of halloumi or Turkish sausage were given. It seems odd that for a sharing platter you get less items than an individual starter. The main platter gave an exceptionally generous amount of bulgar wheat and rice. There was enough meat for the table though again only two lamb chops meant not everyone could have. Overall the food was average and arrived lukewarm. We had a mixed experience with staff. Some were friendly while others just had an air of contempt about them. The restaurant was very busy. I understand that waiting staff have a hard job but when they come across as rude it ruins the experience. We didn't feel rushed until one of the waitresses said we had to pay for the entirety of our meal before her shift ended. We asked why since we hadn't even finished eating and also wanted to look at the dessert menu. We we're told we would have to order with the next person. We politely pointed out our party was too large to easily do this and the waitress left cursing us. What really soured our experience however was after having been presented with the bill and everyone paying, another waiter came up to us and said there was an outstanding amount on the bill. We asked how that could be as everyone had paid an equal share for their meal (drinks were paid for individually including tip at the time or ordering and did not make up our bill). The waiter kept insisting we hadn't paid the full bill even though adding up what everyone paid came to over what the original bill was including tip. The waiter threatened to get the manager so we said go ahead as we can prove we have paid. The manager never did come. This could have been a really good experience and had the customer service been better I can forgive average food and still rate generously. But being accused of not paying when we had is not acceptable, neither is rude staff. Judging by other reviews it seems like we caught a really off night. I would have loved to have enjoyed a more favourable night but understandably I will not be going back.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 F A. 7 months ago on Google • 172 reviews
    I've been to Gokyuzu a few times, and there lies the clue for this review. Every time we've been here, the staff and management have been friendly, tentative, and welcoming. The atmosphere is buzzing as it's always busy. We dined here on an early Saturday evening and were lucky to get a table as walk-ins. We had the Family Bundle 2, which is a jumbo platter + large sharing mezzes (10/10), with some warm baklava for dessert (7/10). The food here is fantastic and it has its own dedicated parking. We rounded off the evening with Turkish teas. A really good place to dine as a family or a large group. The prices are very reasonable for the quality of food and the ambience. Worth every penny. PS: When we left, there must've been a queue of around 40 people waiting outside. We were lucky!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 D T. 2 years ago on Google
    First visit here, very popular place, I was extremely surprised at just how busy it was, also a little surprised at how large the venue is, driven past it on the A406 many times. After tasting the food I see why it's so busy, a good value Turkish food restaurant. You know the food is going to be as fresh as it can be, due to how busy it is. Well seasoned meat, served in large platters, meat lovers heaven, large mountains of meat on offer in the platter. Would be a challenging place to eat if you were vegetarian. Good for large parties as ample space, I think the gents toilets are inadequate for how large the venue is, I had to go up 3-4 times before I got to use the toilet, due to how busy it was. A lot of large all male groups here too, no issues, however removes itself a bit in opinion from being a family atmosphere venue. Overall positive experience, I would recommend, I would only ever come here in a large group, I personally wouldn't suggest lone or small families dues to the size of other diners groups, that is a personal choice though.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Emma B. 1 year ago on Google
    Made a reservation for 4 for my birthday dinner with family. The restaurant was really busy but we were seated on a nice table by the window. We ordered and finished our starters before our drinks arrived but I guess that just shows how efficient they are with the food! The food was really spot on. The only thing I would say is that though the food is good I feel some of the prices are slightly high. £5.50 for a large bottle of water for example seems a bit much. But overall we really enjoyed the food, staff were friendly and efficient and the atmosphere was nice though busy. Due to the prices it is a treat rather than something we can do regularly.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 A Girls Gotta E. 1 year ago on Google
    It was my first time trying the sea bream but I loved it. It was cooked to perfection and I loved the potatoes as well. We also had the kunafeh which was extremely good ! I'm normally fussy when it comes to calamari but this was like butter so I was impressed!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rash R. 2 months ago on Google • 202 reviews New
    First time trying it and I was really pleased, nothing to complain about. The food tasted great, the staff were friendly, not a huge wait for food. The restaurant itself is absolutely huge too The parking lot is quite large and there is no charge to use it which is another good bonus, as someone not from London I was worried about having to find parking etc.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Babatunde 3 months ago on Google • 142 reviews New
    The atmosphere was great. the service was fantastic as the staff were readily available to help and assist you even if you wanted to take pictures of yourself, lol. The food was great, people patronized here a lot, the lambs were really tasty, I personally recommend the lambs to anyone as they were yummy 😋 so much that I ordered for an extra meal as take-out.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 RayS T. 6 months ago on Google • 275 reviews
    We went as a group of 20. Staff were friendly and helpful when you could find them. I gave service 3 stars due to a lack of staff compared to how busy the restaurant was. We had no one to clear the table before the mains had come. We had to ask people to clear it. We We not given plates for plates and had to use starter plates. The guy waiting on our area was funny and friendly. Food I gave 3 stars due flavour ok. But we paid £95 for each platters. And got 3. Menu and staff said it feed 4 to 5 people. It's no way near that amount. I would say 3 people max each. But no presentation at all. See image. The drinks were over £10 each for mocktails and they were average but honestly we'll overpriced. I've been to more expensive restaurants were drinks taste better and less cost. This place overall was overpriced for an average Turkish place. Maybe it was just because it was really busy, but as a restaurant, they should have the staff to host the guest.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mohammed W. 2 years ago on Google
    The food is very good and fresh, plenty of places to sit down. The meat platter is probably the best thing on the menu. The atmosphere isn't the best all feels a bit rushy and loads of people running around you if you end up on a table on the left side of the restaurant or near the entrance. Go upstairs or near the middle/back downstairs.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neet N. 10 months ago on Google
    I really do love this restaurant. We were in a panic when we realised they have dairy is almost all item except: olives, hummus, lamb chops, lamb ribs - yup! We were there with my nephew who thankfully was happy with with above items plus salad (phew). For the rest of us we indulged in the chilli sauce and meats plus rice. Absolutely delicious. Spacious and Bright venue too.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Foodcyclopedia V. 2 months ago on Google • 343 reviews New
    Amazing experience at Gokyuzu. Food was fabulous. We went to celebrate a birthday and Gokyuzu didn’t disappoint us. We ordered Hot Meze sharing Platter which was 8/10 and it costed £21.50. It had good selection of things, something for everyone to like. Lahmachun £6.5 was fresh and delicious Full Grill Platter £67 This was star of the night! With lamb ribs and kebabs! Extremely good! It was good enough for 4-5 people. We ended our night with their complimentary turkish tea. Overall a great experience and would definitely be coming back again. Fully halal.

  • 5/5 Cypriotkiller 4 months ago on Google • 20 reviews
    S tier food, everything was perfect and amazing. Service could have been better. Extra tea was served as the order got mixed up, then an extra coke was billed when we only ordered 4 drinks but got refunded immediately. Free tea at the end is a must, really settles the stomach down after a massive feast!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Secret Google's V. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice environment and ambiance but food quality, taste and size of portion doesn't really reflect the price. Please make sure serve with all basic things on table with meal including sauces, hummus etc.. I know this place is quite busy but guests are paying full price and expect to be treated in the same manner.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Bee 1 year ago on Google
    The food was lovely; really nice quality and good portion sizes. My biggest problem was the atmosphere. It reminded me of a food hall in primary school / food court - the table settings were basic and not reflective of the price of the food at all! It was also incredibly loud as the building was made of a conservatory-like material so the sound echoed. It was unbearable. I couldn’t hear my partner and he was sitting opposite me! We couldn’t get out of there fast enough so we could talk to each other. Do not recommend for an important occasion /date. My partner also paid in cash and we were expecting £12 change and they didn’t even give it back to us! When we asked the staff we received an ‘I don’t know’.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sujjaad R. 2 years ago on Google
    Very nice restaurant. Large and spacious with plenty of parking. Service was great. Food came quickly and the taste was on point. Just a shame they serve alcohol
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 M D. 2 months ago on Google • 170 reviews New
    The service is very quick, we got a table straightaway. Salad and bread was served within a few minutes and our order followed. The waiters are also very quick at clearing the table, which can be off putting when you’re still trying to eat. Every time I go, I get this feeling that they want you to pay and be gone before you have had the chance to enjoy your food. The food and atmosphere is nice, so we return.

  • 4/5 Raj S. 7 months ago on Google • 24 reviews
    Be aware that on Saturday evening it can get really busy so be ready to wait to be seated. Car parking is available. Food was a decent amount and tasted great! Went with a group so we had a mix of vegetarian and non vegetarian, so it was good that they cater for both. Would highly recommend 👌
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 F O. 1 year ago on Google
    I've had Turkish food in many places but this one was by miles, the best I've I have no particular meal recommendations. Everything was simply amazing! Oh and there's a whole lot of parking, which is a major plus for a London location.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marie S. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best Turkish restaurants I've been to. The food was so tasty and the free bread, salad and tea at the end was such a nice touch. Don't let the long queues and waiting to be seated time put you off as once you are seated, you do get served pretty quickly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Affy 2 years ago on Google
    Food was excellent and service was very good. Highly recommended. Price is also reasonable.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 lulu S. 2 years ago on Google
    The food is always exceptional, we live the kunafa here the best and tea is a treat. However the staff today were not as friendly as usual quite abrupt and the vibe was lacking sadly. The food however was delicious nonetheless.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M B. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best Turkish restaurants in London. Every meat dish I’ve tasted there was cooked to perfection. The flavour and texture of the chicken, beef and lamb was just right. We went during the day which I’d recommend, after 6pm it gets very busy! Perfect for birthday celebrations, family outings and dates.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aya M. 6 months ago on Google • 116 reviews
    First of all I dropped 2 stars for the atmosphere as the place is so very noisy it’s not a kind of place that you can sit, eat and have a conversation. I would say prices are a bit higher than expected but service was fast. The food was perfect, at first they served us a complimentary starter a good bowl of salad, Turkish bread and tzatziki salad. we ordered Adana kebab and mix grill they were perfectly cooked with charcoal grilled taste also the presentation was good. We ordered fried liver it was delicious we even had more as a takeaway. As a dessert we had a kunefe and rice pudding both were so tasty. Overall I would visit this place again and I hope the can make it less noisy.

  • 5/5 Anthony G. 8 months ago on Google • 112 reviews
    This is the one the best Turkish restaurants in London, it’s part of a chain and surprisingly good value for money considering the sizes of portion. The building is beautifully decorated and the staff are very quick, will help with most questions or concerns. I fully recommend anything from the grill, you get free salad and bread as much as you like and it’s very good so make sure you take advantage.

  • 5/5 k “krux672” b. 2 months ago on Google • 80 reviews New
    Love this restaurant. One of my very favourite Turkish restaurants. Food is always on point. Sharing platters are worth it for large group. Have tried quite a few options of the menu and have never been disappointed. Massive place so no need for reservation and can always walk in. Always lively atmosphere and nice ambience but can be nosy sometimes. Baklava is very tasty too

  • 5/5 Saira “Jasmine” M. 3 months ago on Google • 40 reviews New
    Last but not least before the New Year of 2024!! Forgot to remember to mention what lovely meals we've had this Summer of 2023 once for Eid Ul Adha and a second trip here with family to mark a special occasion. Thank you for always managing great numbers with calmness, patience and great communication by the door supervisor and attendance for tables always and serving staff. Lovely cooked food and Teas at the end of a visit. Beautiful Location for Pictures outside. Thank you for all your hard work it shows keep it up!

  • 4/5 Farah A. 3 months ago on Google • 36 reviews New
    The only reason I did not give five stars is because the drive into the restaurant is rancid. There is rubbish and old scraps of building material that greet you upon taking a turn from A406. Food is amazing, and desserts are even better 😋

  • 5/5 Mohammad Naimur R. 9 months ago on Google
    Went to this place during my stay at London. The place good a very good ambience. I tried the mixed kabobs, lahmacun and mixed plater. The food were really good. The meats were juicy and tinder. The food was served on time in orders. Really a good place to hangout with bigger group. I would definitely recommend this.

  • 4/5 Prita D. 6 months ago on Google
    Tasty Turkish food. Good range of vegetarian options. The vegetarian pide was delicous, as was the lamb adana kebab - sightly smoky and succulent. Friendly, quick service. The bread, tzatziki, and generously sized salad on the house, though prices are quite steep otherwise given the location (around £16-22 for a main). They've tried to make the decor quite smart, though it's noisy and the toilets could be cleaner. Baby-friendly: high chairs and good baby change toilet.

  • 5/5 S S. 1 year ago on Google
    Fantastic food and experience!! They use the best cuts of meat so tender and flavoursome not fatty at all, very good quality. Liver is one of the best I have tried, food is always marinated well and bursting with flavour in this restaurant, along with fresh salad and cooked bread. Nothing bad to say at all , fantastic service the staff are fast and efficient with bringing food and cleaning tables. Spacious restaurant with a great atmosphere and plenty of onsite parking. Definitely give this restaurant a try.

  • 2/5 Louise H. 4 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    Not been here for a while now. The food was great. The service however was a big disappointment. The second round of drinks had to be chased on a few occasions and still did not arrive until a good 20 minutes later. We also asked for butter which also had to be chased several times. The starter even came out before the waiter eventually brought the butter to the table. It didn’t seem the restaurant were understaffed but no one seems to know what they were doing and a lot of staff seemed to be standing around. I definitely will not be rushing back.


Call +44 20 8527 4927 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free parking lot
    • ✓️ Plenty of parking
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Halal food
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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