This is the place to go for lunch in Pendik, Turkey (about 30 minutes from central Istanbul) when you are waiting for the Istanbul (Pendik) to Ankara high speed train (Ankara-İstanbul hızlı tren hattı). Just a few blocks from the Pendik train station, Köfteci Recebim is super clean and patronized by local businessmen in ties who have convivial lunches of fresh kabobs and tea. The kofte, pictured, was tender and juicy, which said to me that it was grilled fresh, not re-heated. The staff were attentive and professional, almost old-world style humble and pleasant. Their English was limited, yet they were so polite they made sure I had everything I wanted (like extra napkins). I realize the dollar is strong right now so I expected a good price but this place was already a great deal. The staff were proud of their restaurant, which says everything. read more

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