Kara’s Turkish Delight stays with the Olive Garden

I have been to the Olive Garden before, when it was called Kara.  This time I went with friends.  Upon arrival we were given menus and a nice touch a wine menu each, which saves time, especially when you have to pass it around a number of people to have a look.

We started with a Sharing Meze Platter.   It was very generous and included Hummus,  Aubergine Puree, Olives, Russian Salad, Dolmas (Stuffed Vine Leaves) and Tsatsike, all served with Pitta Bread.  It was delicious, the Hummus was sprinkled with sumac and the Aubergine Puree seemed to have been fried which gave it a smokiness and was mixed with tomato and herbs.

 For mains you have a selection of slow cooked lamb or vegetarian based casserole style dishes, seafood or something from the grill.  The grill is the centre of attention in the restaurant and the chef cooks to order over hot charcoal.  If you like a bit of theatre then this place is for you!

  

The food at the Olive Garden is very good, I had Grilled Lamb Chops and one friend had the Mixed Grill.  I can imagine that you may start having to book a table in advance as so far I have managed to get a table ad-hoc.  It wasn’t expensive either, around £20 a head including a bottle of wine.  If you like Mediterranean style food then I would encourage people to try the Olive Garden.

Olive Garden, 132 High Street, Southampton SO14 2BR