If food is the way to the heart, then Fatma’s Kitchen had me falling head over heels. Nestled on Broadway in Haywards Heath, this Turkish delight (no pun intended—okay, maybe a little) was a whirlwind romance for my taste buds. From the moment I walked in, the tantalising aroma of charcoal-grilled meats, fragrant spices, and warm, pillowy bread whispered sweet nothings to my senses. And let me tell you, by the end of the meal, I was fully committed.
A Warm Welcome & Service That’s Top-Notch
Ever walked into a place and instantly felt like family? That’s exactly what happened here. The lovely team at Fatma’s Kitchen treats every guest like a long-lost cousin who’s finally come home for dinner. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, you’re greeted with a beaming smile and seated like royalty. The service? As smooth as freshly brewed Turkish coffee—strong, warm, and just the right amount of sweet.
The Magic Behind the Kitchen Door
And then there’s Fatma herself—the culinary queen of this establishment. An award-winning chef with a passion for authentic Turkish cuisine, Fatma doesn’t just cook food; she tells a story with every dish. With experience in kitchens worldwide, from Kazakhstan to London, she’s mastered making every bite feel like a little piece of Istanbul.
Mezze Madness – A Flavour Explosion
Now, let’s talk about the real reason we’re here—the food! We kicked things off with a vibrant mezze platter that could have been framed and hung in an art gallery. Hummus is smoother than a jazz tune, Baba Ganoush is smokier than a mystery novel, and the vine leaves are stuffed so fresh you’d swear they were rolled just moments ago. Each bite was a rollercoaster of textures and tastes, and trust me, I did not want to get off this ride.
Charcoal-Grilled Glory
If there’s one thing you must try, it’s the charcoal-grilled meats. I went for the lamb kebabs, and let me tell you, they were so tender they practically wrote me a love letter. Juicy, smoky, and perfectly seasoned—each bite was a standing ovation in my mouth. My dining partner went for the marinated chicken skewers, and I’m sure I saw a single tear of joy roll down his cheek.
Seafood So Good It’ll Make You Weep
The grilled sea bass is a must for those who love a little surf with their turf. Light, flaky, and seasoned to perfection, it arrived like a work of art, accompanied by sautéed veggies that were crisp, colourful, and downright delicious.
Dessert: A Sweet Ending (Or the Beginning of an Addiction?)
No meal is complete without dessert, and oh boy, did Fatma’s Kitchen deliver. The baklava? A symphony of crunchy, nutty, honey-soaked goodness that made me momentarily forget every problem in my life. I paired it with a cup of Turkish coffee, which was so rich and bold it could probably convince me to make better life decisions.
Eat Under the Stars & Feel Fancy
The cherry on top? The outdoor seating area! Nothing quite like eating under the stars with a light breeze carrying the scent of grilled meats and spices. Whether you’re on a romantic date or treating yourself (which you absolutely should), the atmosphere is pure magic.
Affordable Indulgence
Now, you’d think all this top-tier flavour would cost an arm and a leg, right? Wrong! Fatma’s Kitchen balances incredible quality with prices that don’t make your wallet weep. It’s where you can indulge without regret—unless you regret not wearing stretchy trousers (rookie mistake).
Take It Home (Yes, Please!)
Not in the mood to dine out? No worries! Fatma’s Kitchen offers takeout and delivery so that you can enjoy their deliciousness in your pyjamas. Because let’s be honest—some meals are better when you’re wrapped in a blanket, binge-watching your favourite series.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether celebrating something special, catching up with friends, or having a ‘treat yourself’ day, this place is a winner. They even have a function area for big events (up to 140 guests!). So, if you’re looking for a venue serving great food and vibes, look no further.
The Verdict?
Fatma’s Kitchen isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. The kind that lingers long after the last bite, making you dream of your next visit. From the warmth of the staff to the unbeatable flavours, this place is a true gem. If you haven’t been yet, do yourself (and your taste buds) a favour—make a reservation, bring an appetite, and prepare to fall in love.
Trust me, your stomach will thank you later.
