I. Atmosphere (4/5) - Space is small and intimate. Warm with good seating options - can probably…read moreaccommodate up to 8 if needed. It's a mom & pop shop so nothing super fancy, but well-kept.
2. Food (4/5)
Babagannoush (APP, 5/5) - TAKE. MY. MONEY! Man I love me some good baba and this was exceptional. Velvety with great mouth feel and lovely smokiness this was so good w/ their table bread
Turkish Ravioli (Manti) (APP, 3/5) - Chewy little nuggets w. yogurt filling, it was pretty enjoyable though my colleague gave ma "Meh" since she makes them at home and probably has high bar. It was good for maybe the first 3 or 4, so perhaps better ordered for larger groups.
Shepherd Salad (APP, 4/5) - Fresh, bright(as in vinegar), and herbaceous, we added feta cheese to it and it was perfect balance to our entree.
Kofte Kebab (MAIN, 4/5) - Not too dry with packed flavor of all the herbs & beef, I really enjoyed my dish. Went great with all the other accouterments such as slightly cinged wedge of tomato and onion slices, all frolicking on a bed of warm rice that had a nice bite.
Adana Kebap (MAIN, 4/5) - My colleague had this one, and I tried a piece. It was juicy and had no hint of gaminess which is always a plus for lamb.
3. Service (3/5) - This being a mom & pop store, I think they're short on staff. Usually they're all in the back cooking, so you do need to be a bit patient to flag someone down. But I'm sure they're more attentive during busy hours. (We went during weekday)
Overall, Hakki Baba is a solid turkish mom & pop shop that delivers on great authentic flavor at a reasonable price. In the sea of turkish restaurants in Cliffside Park area, this one is one of my favorite. Pay them a visit!