Nottingham restaurant where staff always remember your face reopens after fire

Fans of Turkish restaurant Turquoise were left devastated earlier this year as a devastating fire closed the restaurant for weeks. But now it’s back open and community reporter Keimae Blake gave it a try

Turquoise has received excellent reviews ever since it opened its doors in Hucknall Road, Sherwood, serving mouth-watering evening. Most evenings, if you were to stroll past, you would be hard pressed to find an empty table in sight.

So it was devastating news for customers as well as staff when a fire in April closed the eatery for the ‘forseeable future’. But now it’s back and customers have wasted no time in booking their tables at a restaurant with hundreds of positive Google reviews.

I was among those fans eagerly anticipating a return to sample some of its foodie delights, having enjoyed many meals here previously. As soon as I walked through the doors the staff recognised me – despite not having returned since the fire.

I’m used to the hustle and bustle of Turquoise in the evenings so arriving at 1pm for lunch was a different experience. But while it was quiter than usual, it was by no means empty.

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Inside the restaurant there are hints of turquoise and blue everywhere, bringing a real atmosphere to the experience. I sat at the back on the velvet seats, and was handed a menu.

Normally, I’d be with somebody else and know what I like. The sharing platter for two at Turquoise is £33.90. On it you get: lamb shish, chicken shish, chicken kofte, 4 pieces of ribs and 4 pieces of chicken wings – all served with rice and salad.

So being on my own for lunch on this occasion, I flicked through the menu to see what was on offer.

After a browse, I ended up settling with mixed kebabs for £18.50 served with rice and salad. If kebabs aren’t your thing, Turquoise also has fish dishes and vegetarian options, too.

I had a slice of the free bread you get whilst waiting for your main and once my grilled goodness arrived I didn’t hesitate to start.

For what you pay for, you get a lot. The lamb is always my favourite of Turqouise’s dishes. Juicy, tender, well-cooked – the lamb is truly delicious.

With well seasoned chicken and two different types of rice, you have to come to Turquoise on an empty stomach! Hopefully people in Nottingham are aware the restaurant has re-opened and if you’ve never been before, I can’t speak highly enough of the food and service which is both 10/10.

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