Seemor
Selale RestaurantA-Worth Trying
1-2-3, Salisbury Promenade, Green Lanes, Harringay Ladder, London N8 0RX
· Turkish restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (2793 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Green Lanes Turkish grill known for charcoal meats, big platters, and warm hospitality; great for groups, with generous freebies, but service consistency and pricing quirks can vary.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Selale delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional charcoal-grilled meats and traditional Turkish platters paired with attentive, personable service that creates warm hospitality. However, isolated food safety concerns and inconsistent execution on busy nights prevent grade A territory, while pleasant but unremarkable ambiance keeps it neighborhood-focused rather than destination-defining. A reliable choice for Turkish grill excellence within Green Lanes' dining community.
Restaurant Summary
On Green Lanes’ lively strip, Selale hums with clatter from the charcoal grill, big platters landing at tables, and staff who often close meals with tea and a sweet bite. Diners describe warm hospitality and portions that feel built for sharing, with one guest noting, "the meats were tender and juicy, cooked perfectly." However, service can wobble on busy nights, and a few diners have flagged pricing surprises on sides and service charges. The culinary approach leans traditional Turkish grill over trend-chasing: think Iskender, Yogurtlu Adana, lamb chops, and pides. Reviews point to reliable flavor and value when you order from the charcoal and share, especially the house platters. Expect classic technique and charcoal-kissed meats rather than modern fusion; execution shines when the kitchen is in rhythm, though there are isolated knocks for dry chicken or greasy doner. Families are well looked after: there is a kids menu (nuggets or fish fingers with rice or chips), plus easy wins like cheese or spinach pide, chips, and rice. Birthdays get fanfare, and staff often help with cakes. If you need strict gluten controls, proceed carefully—many items are marked GF*, but one coeliac reported cross-contact; vegetarians and vegans will find genuine options across meze, mains, and pides.
At a Glance
- Charcoal-grilled meats and mixed platters are consistent crowd-pleasers
- Generous portions with complimentary bread, salad, and often tea/baklava
- Service consistency varies; occasional delays and brusque interactions reported
- Pricing on sides/drinks and service charge handling can surprise
- Coeliac-level gluten control not reliable despite GF* labels
What Sets It Apart
- large_sharing_platters
- charcoal_grill_mastery
- complimentary_tea_baklava_finish
- deep_regular_customer_base
What People Love
- That first bite of smoky lamb shish
- Overflowing platters that feed more than advertised
- Friendly servers who keep the tea flowing
- A lively room that makes birthdays feel special
Points of Concern
- Some reports of dry chicken shish or greasy doner on off-nights (infrequent but noted)
- Coeliac diners reported cross-contact; GF* best for preference, not strict allergy
- A few complaints about pushy or unclear service charge handling
- Isolated safety complaints about suspected spoilage; rare but serious when cited
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£36-52 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For two: Mixed hot meze (£22) + Lamb Shish (£19.50/£24.50) + Lahmacun (£6.90) for sharing
- For families: Selale Special to share (£79.00) plus a cheese or spinach pide (£16.50-£17.50) for kids
- For vegetarians: Vegan platter (£19.90) and Imam Bayildi (£18.50)
Perfect For
- Group feast with mixed grill platters
- Casual family dinner with celebratory touches
- First-time Green Lanes tour of Turkish classics
- Meat lovers craving charcoal flavor
Location Insights
Area: Bustling North London high street known for Turkish eateries, bakeries, and cafes; attracts groups, families, and late-evening diners.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; standard urban vigilance recommended during late hours.
Nearby: Dense strip of Turkish restaurants on Green Lanes; near shops and cafes with steady footfall; strong neighborhood dining culture.
HarringayHarringay is a lively residential neighborhood with a strong community feel, known for its independent shops, cafes, and a growing number of trendy restaurants. The dining scene is eclectic, reflecting the area's multicultural population, with a mix of casual eateries and more upscale options. It is considered safe and accessible, popular among locals seeking a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.
Harringay LadderThe Harringay Ladder is a distinctive sub-area characterized by its parallel streets lined with Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses. It has a village-like atmosphere with a close-knit community and a selection of independent dining spots and pubs, making it a favored locale for those seeking a quieter, neighborhood-focused dining experience within London.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–01:00
Tuesday09:00–01:00
Wednesday09:00–01:00
Thursday09:00–01:00
Friday09:00–02:00
Saturday09:00–02:00
Sunday09:00–01:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →