We were originally going to London Bridge for noodles, but on such a hot, humid evening they just didn’t appeal. My partner had read about Kismet that very morning, so perhaps it really was fate, because we changed our plans and headed there instead. You’ll find this Turkish and Cypriot restaurant above The Globe Tavern, which was where Bridget Jones lived in her singleton days. It turned out to be a great choice for dinner, and I think Bridget would approve! We shared a selection of vegetarian meze dishes, all freshly prepared and flavourful. If you’re looking for the best Turkish restaurants near Borough Market or London Bridge, Kismet is well worth discovering.
“Fresh Turkish and Cypriot cooking with excellent meze and charcoal-grilled dishes in a relaxed setting in the heart of Borough Market,” Homegirl London.
Kismet Turkish and Cypriot Menu
I’ll start at the beginning with the first three vegetarian meze dishes. We chose the chickpea hummus, which is silky rather than thick; we used the warm bread to scoop it up. Other dips included whipped tahini with citrus, pureed cod’s roe and strained yoghurt with chilli butter.
We also tucked into a plate of beautifully cooked fried aubergine and peppers, which I can highly recommend. Our third meze dish was the white cheese with walnut, dill, and mint, which was refreshing for the humid evening.
Once that was cleared away, we were treated to a sizzling pan of Swiss chard, yoghurt and chilli butter; it may sound simple, but it was so delicious. The crisp filo pastry cigars filled with gooey cheese were comforting. Alongside everything, we shared a plate of bulgur wheat cooked with tomato, which tied all the dishes together perfectly.
To finish, we each had a small square of baklava. One piece is all you need, as it’s incredibly sweet and rich. Combined with a Turkish tea, it was a pleasant way to end the memorable meal. My partner ordered an Aryan, a traditional Turkish drink made with yoghurt, water and a little salt. It’s cool, refreshing and the perfect accompaniment to the food.
As vegetarians, we were spoiled for choice; next time I’ll try the Cypriot potatoes and house salad. Kismet’s menu also offers bulgar with beef and onion, as well as a fried liver and onion salad. Mangal options include lamb neck, beef and lamb meatballs, chicken thighs or monkfish with yoghurt and chilli butter. The menu isn’t extensive, but it features all the favourites. There’s also a set menu for £48 per person.
Helpful Information About Kismet Borough
As you approach The Globe Tavern opposite Borough Market, you’d never guess there’s a restaurant hidden upstairs. Head towards the toilets, climb several flights of stairs and walk through the curtain to discover Kismet. It does feel a bit of a find after you’ve made it up to the restaurant.
Fling back the drape, and you’ll find an open kitchen facing the main dining room, with a second seating area beyond. The interiors have a relaxed pub feel with a smattering of images covering the walls, not perfectly ordered, which may annoy some. Personally, I’d lose the paper tablecloths as they slightly cheapen the look. It’s pretty much what you’d expect from a dining room above a pub; it’s not Bridget Jones’ real apartment, that apparently was filmed elsewhere!
The address is Upstairs at The Globe Tavern, 8 Bedale Street, London SE1 9AL, just a short walk from both London Bridge and Borough stations. It’s closed on Mondays, open for lunch Wednesday to Sunday and evenings Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, check out the Kismet website.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Ten Things To Try At Borough Market
Ten Reason To Visit Borough Yards
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about coffee shops or eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend you do further research, as standards fluctuate, as do opinions. Please verify that the establishment is still in business and check its opening times before visiting.