A well-liked Turkish grill with fresh bread, smoky meats and friendly service, best value at lunch, though evening pricing, portion perceptions and occasional quality lapses merit attention.
Efes Restaurant delivers strong food quality and attentive service that keep diners returning to Glossop Road for dependable charcoal-grilled kebabs and fresh Mediterranean fare. The dated setting prevents a higher grade, as the practical but uninspired ambiance lacks the polish that would elevate the overall experience into top-tier territory.
Efes is a compact, casual Turkish restaurant on Glossop Road where the dependable draw is the grill: warm bread, smoky kebabs and friendly, speedy service. Repeat diners describe it as a go-to for lunches, dates and family meals, while one reviewer summed up the appeal as a satisfying pre-gig feast. The room itself is pleasant rather than polished, with some comments that the decor feels tired and Sunday evenings can be quiet. The cooking is rooted in familiar Turkish comfort food rather than experimental technique. Charcoal-grilled chicken, lamb and mixed grills are the centre of gravity, supported by hummus, Ali Nazik, moussaka, guvec and seafood dishes. The current menu also gives vegetarians and vegans genuine choice, not just a token salad. Lunch is the clear value play at £8.50 for the listed two-course menu; dinner is still moderate by menu arithmetic, but separate bread or side charges and portion complaints make the evening proposition more divisive. Families should find plenty to work with: chicken shish, burgers, wraps, chips, rice, grilled chicken and ice-cream desserts are all recognizable options, and reviews mention family dinners. It is not presented as a dedicated children’s venue, so picky eaters may prefer the simpler grill or burger choices, while adventurous diners can explore the vegetable dishes and mixed starters.
Area vibe: Near-city-centre residential area with student housing, shops and local eateries.
Safety: Generally safe in daytime and evenings with regular footfall but quieter late at night on some streets.
What's nearby: Close to University of Sheffield, Broomhill shops, Ecclesall Road and accessible to city centre amenities and public transport.
The safest order centers on smoky charcoal-grilled kebabs, though the menu also has strong vegetarian options and shareable starters.
The lunch deal is excellent, but dinner requires more careful expectations about portions, extras, and the restaurant’s casual setting.
Expect a friendly, casual grill-house atmosphere that suits a pre-gig meal, but not especially polished surroundings or consistently lively evenings.