622 South 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
*Disclaimer: We were not paid for this review. All opinions are our own and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Isot is the place to go if you are seeking wonderful Turkish cuisine: they serve the best in the city. This gem is located in the low-key Queen Village neighborhood of Philly, so a great place for a quiet date. Because of its' hidden location, it remains an undiscovered gem. The best time to plan your visit is during the fabulous weekday lunch special.
Visit Isot Monday-Friday between 12 and 4 for a wonderful Turkish dining experience. The food is fresh, flavorful, and made from scratch.
The lunch special here is one of the best deals in town. For just 12 bucks, you get to choose a soup, entree, and 2 sides. Served alongside your meal is a tasty antep salad and an onion parsley salad. Fresh pita bread is brought out with your soup. You are also treated to a light appetizer and complimentary drink while you are waiting for your meal.
The meal ends with your choice between Turkish tea or coffee. Go with the coffee if you have never tried it before. Turkish coffee is bold and flavorful, while still being incredibly smooth. It's hard to go back to drinking drip after tasting this incredible coffee which dates back to the 1500's.
I recommend enjoying a cup of lentil soup. This is one of the best soups I've ever tasted - really incredible! As far as entrees go, the Veggie Kabob is a nice healthy choice. Bulgur rice and sauteed vegetables make for a nice side.
On a side note, Isot is a BYOB.
Update: The lunch special is no longer offered. However, the food is good enough to warrant a visit. The pricing is quiet affordable considering the authenticity and quality. Also, the menu has been changed. Recent selections include: Seafood Casserole and Vegetarian Manti, Turkish Vegetarian dumplings filled with spinach and topped with mint infused olive oil, red pepper oil, and homemade yogurt. This sounds like a wonderful vegetarian option which I am eager to try out on my next visit!
Service at Isot is A+ all the way. The host and waiters are all so courteous and professional. The food is timed perfectly and well presented. The great service is definitely the highlight of the dining experience. We would definitely return for another date!
The decor is upscale casual, modern, and inviting. The dining room features a nice romantic vibe, thus making it one of the best choices in Philly for an afternoon lunch date. Out of all the restaurant's we have frequented since moving here, Isot offered the best date ambiance.
Stop by Isot for a wonderful authentic Turkish meal. You will not find a better choice in Philly. Fortunately, reservations are usually not necessary for lunch so you can stop by on a whim. Lunchtime is really the best value as you have the unique opportunity to try numerous dishes without spending an arm and a leg.
