Lively Turkish spot with standout kebabs, pide, and rare Kelle Paca; service speed and portion consistency can vary, but value remains solid at lunch and fair at dinner.
Taste Of Istanbul delivers solid neighborhood Turkish dining with strong food quality—particularly standout Kelle Paca soup and well-executed kebabs—and genuinely warm service. However, inconsistent portion sizes and cooking execution combined with unpredictable wait times during peak hours prevent a higher grade. The pleasant street location and cozy atmosphere appeal to families and regulars seeking authentic Turkish fare, but operational reliability falls short of grade A standards.
Set just off the main drag of Reston Town Center, Taste Of Istanbul feels cozy and welcoming. Servers are often described as warm, with small touches like tea at the end. One diner summed it up: "the room felt like a little Istanbul cafe," even when things ran busy and lively. The cooking leans classic Turkish: kebabs that glisten, crisp lahmacun, and a rare, deeply comforting Kelle Paca soup. When the kitchen is on, doner and Iskender are tender and well seasoned; mezze brighten the table. Pacing can lag during rushes, and portions vary, so go in with a relaxed mindset and pair mains with mezze to round things out. Families do well here. There are kid-friendly choices like chicken tenders, fries, and simple pides, plus outdoor seating for squirmy little ones. If kids are adventurous, share kebabs and rice; if not, the mozzarella or spinach pide keeps it simple.
Area vibe: Modern town-center district with shops, offices, and promenades; draws locals and business travelers.
Safety: Well-maintained, good lighting and foot traffic; generally safe day and night.
What's nearby: Surrounded by retail, offices, and parking garages; short walk to multiple dining options and public spaces.