Seemor
AntalyaB+Worth Trying
103-105 Southampton Row, London WC1B 4HH
· Turkish restaurant, Function room facility, Halal restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (2688 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Antalya delivers classic Turkish flavors in a lively Bloomsbury setting, but high prices and small portions may leave value-seekers wanting more.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Antalya delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional service warmth and reliable food quality, particularly in signature lamb and meze dishes. However, inconsistent execution and premium pricing with modest portions prevent it from reaching higher territory—it's a worthwhile destination for Turkish cuisine enthusiasts and special occasions, but value-conscious diners may find better options nearby.
Restaurant Summary
Antalya brings the flavors of Turkey to the heart of Bloomsbury, offering a lively and welcoming atmosphere just steps from the British Museum. The service shines, with staff like Fatih and Umid earning rave reviews for their warmth and attentiveness, making both tourists and locals feel at home. The restaurant is a popular choice for special occasions, group gatherings, and those seeking a taste of authentic Turkish hospitality in central London.The culinary approach here is classic Turkish—think grilled meats, meze platters, and hearty lentil soup—executed with care but without much in the way of culinary fireworks. While the food is generally well-prepared and flavorful, some diners have found the portions on the small side, especially given the premium pricing (mains and starters at £21.95 each). Value-seekers and those with big appetites may leave wishing for more, but fans of Turkish cuisine will appreciate the authentic flavors and variety, including vegetarian-friendly mains.For families, Antalya is a solid choice: the menu includes familiar, kid-friendly options like chicken shish and pasta, and the staff are accommodating with pushchairs and special requests. While there's no dedicated kids' menu, the approachable dishes and relaxed setting make it easy for families to dine together. Just be aware that adventurous eaters will find more to love than picky palates, and the lack of a formal kids' menu means choices are limited to the main offerings.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally friendly and attentive staff, especially for special occasions.
- Authentic Turkish flavors and classic dishes, with vegetarian options available.
- High prices and small portions may disappoint value-focused diners.
- Service can be inconsistent during peak times or for large groups.
- Menu is traditional, not fusion—adventurous eaters will enjoy, but conservative palates may find options limited.
What Sets It Apart
- private_dining_room
- central_location_near_british_museum
- friendly_named_staff
What People Love
- The warm, welcoming staff who remember regulars and make special occasions memorable
- Flavorful lamb shish and meze platters that transport diners to Turkey
- Convenient location near major attractions and hotels
- Private dining room for group celebrations
- Quick, efficient service even for large parties
Points of Concern
- Portion sizes are frequently described as small, especially for the price
- Some diners report inconsistent food quality and occasional blandness
- Service can be less attentive during busy periods or for large groups
- A few complaints about management's responsiveness to problems
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£44-£50 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Opt for the grilled meats or meze platter for the most authentic experience.
- Vegetarians can choose from Moussakka, Vegetable Penne/Spaghetti, and Guvech.
- Expect to pay £44-£50 per person for a full meal, excluding drinks.
Perfect For
- Celebrating a birthday or special event with a group
- Tourists seeking authentic Turkish food near the British Museum
- Families looking for a relaxed, central London meal
- Fans of attentive, personalized service
Location Insights
Area: Bustling, central London neighborhood with a mix of tourists, students, and professionals; lively but not overly upscale.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with steady foot traffic, especially in the evenings.
Nearby: Close to the British Museum, hotels, and major transit; surrounded by other restaurants, pubs, and shops.
BloomsburyA scholarly and culturally rich neighborhood known for its historic literary connections, academic institutions like University of London, and numerous museums and research centers. The dining scene reflects an intellectual, cosmopolitan atmosphere with diverse cafes, traditional pubs, and international restaurants.
Russell SquareA refined sub-area centered around the historic Russell Square, featuring elegant Georgian townhouses, academic institutions, and a sophisticated urban dining environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–23:00
Tuesday11:30–23:30
Wednesday11:30–23:30
Thursday11:30–23:30
Friday11:30–23:30
Saturday11:30–23:30
Sunday11:30–23:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →