Ani Restaurant

[PoshinDevon]

Dont normally do reviews on restaurants as its very much subjective especially with regards to price, quantity, type of food, service etc.

However; its been 3 years that we have said we must try the Ani Restaurant just outside Catalkoy village and near the Malpas Hotel. The unfinished "castle" look does not inspire but that did not put us off.....its been like it for years. So last week we gave it a go. Walked down from our place and arrived to see a large Range Rover parked outside and one couple sat at a table inside. It was a Tuesday evening so was not expecting it to be busy. To be fair we have driven by and seen the place very busy, often with some very impressive cars parked outside - so were wondering what the prices were like. In the summer there are often wedding receptions organised by Catalkoy Belideye being held in the small square next to restaurant.

Sat down and duly ordered some drinks, Efes and red wine.......drinks arrived and it was a large glass of red wine of good quality. Firstly it is meze, kebab and fish place, of which there are many serving the same fare. There is no menu as such but we were aware of this before we went. Meze started to arrive and whilst it is not the most challenging meal to prepare we were very pleased with the selection, quality and quantity. Usual dips etc but some different ones we had not tried before and it was very tastey indeed.

You are then asked if you want fish, chicken, lamb shish, kofte, sheftalia etc and this is then cooked and bought to the table. Again it was well cooked and large quantities. Coffee and fruit to end.

Whilst we were eating others arrived, all local people which we take as being a reasonable sign that its worth giving it a go. Restaurant owner came across to say hello, shake hands and checked everything was ok. Waiters were friendly as we made best efforts to say a few words in turkish. The bill was 130TL for two.

Yes it is a meze and there is no menu, but we were not dissapointed. It was a place that we kept saying we would give it a go, but never got round to. We are glad we did.

From Girne head east out of town for approx 5 miles, turn right at Malpas Hotel sign, follow road round to the right, continue over a couple of speed bumps, pass Little Star Nursery and restaurant on right.

[Deniz1]

never been disappointed when i have eaten there if you pre order they do a whole fish baked in a salt crust it is wonderful and very moist and filling!

[PoshinDevon]

never been disappointed when i have eaten there if you pre order they do a whole fish baked in a salt crust it is wonderful and very moist and filling!

Thanks for this. Maybe next time we will pre order. Cannot think why it took us such a long time to give it a try, we will certainly be popping in regularly.

[Deniz1]

Silly isnt it right on our doorstep too.