Mangal I, Dalston’s Quick Stop for Authentic Turkish Flavours
Mangal I in Dalston serves authentic Turkish lahmacun and pide, freshly made in a brick oven within minutes. Affordable, delicious, and paired perfectly with ayran and complimentary Turkish tea.
Are you in Dalston area, rushing between errands or simply caught in the whirlwind of London’s fast-paced life? As your stomach growls, you need something quick, delicious, and satisfying. Enter Mangal I, a humble spot that might just save your day. Specialising in freshly made lahmacun and pide, this eatery is a haven for anyone craving authentic Turkish flavours without the wait. Imagine this: within five minutes of placing your order, a piping hot, crispy lahmacun emerges from a traditional brick stone oven, ready to transport you straight to the bustling streets of Istanbul.
Just steps away from the Dalston Kingsland Overground station, lies Mangal I, a cosy eatery that has mastered the art of two Turkish culinary staples: lahmacun and pide. While many restaurants offer a wide variety of Turkish dishes, Mangal I has taken a bold yet delightful approach by dedicating its menu solely to these two flatbread specialties. If you’re a lover of Turkish flavours or simply someone curious to explore the nuances of this cuisine, this unassuming spot deserves a visit.
Lahmacun: A Turkish Classic
Lahmacun, often referred to as “Turkish pizza,” is much more than its nickname suggests. This thin, crispy flatbread is topped with a savoury mixture of minced meat—typically beef or lamb—blended with finely chopped vegetables and fragrant herbs. The mix is seasoned with spices like chili pepper and paprika, which give it a subtle yet satisfying kick. At Mangal I, the lahmacun is cooked to perfection in a traditional brick stone oven, adding an irresistible smoky depth to its flavour.
What sets Mangal I’s lahmacun apart is its freshness and texture. The bread is thin and delightfully crispy, yet sturdy enough to hold the generous toppings without breaking apart. Served with a portion of fresh salad, including rocket, onions, cabbage, and a slice of lemon, diners have the option to eat it as is, or wrap the salad in the flatbread for a handheld treat. I opted to enjoy mine on a plate, layering the salad and crafting my own wrap—a ritual that was as satisfying as the taste itself.
Pide: The Rich Cousin
While lahmacun may steal the show, Mangal I’s pide holds its own as a worthy contender. Pide, a thicker flatbread, comes generously topped with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, beef, spinach, and mushrooms. Unlike lahmacun, it offers a heartier bite, making it a great option for those looking for something more filling. The pide’s dough is soft yet slightly crispy along the edges, a perfect vessel for the rich and flavourful toppings.
A Perfect Pairing
No Turkish meal is complete without a traditional beverage, and Mangal I delivers with ayran, a refreshing yogurt-based drink. Its tangy and creamy notes complement the spiced flavours of the lahmacun and pide, acting as a palate cleanser between bites. The experience is further elevated with a glass of Turkish tea, offered as a complimentary treat after the meal. This small but thoughtful gesture highlights the warmth and hospitality that Turkish cuisine is renowned for.
Affordability Meets Quality
One of Mangal I’s standout features is its affordability. At just £2.50 per lahmacun, this is a meal that delivers exceptional value for money without compromising on quality. In a city where dining out can quickly become expensive, Mangal I proves that delicious food doesn’t have to break the bank.
Why You Should Visit
Mangal I isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. The simplicity of the menu allows the focus to remain on the craftsmanship and authenticity of the dishes. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a leisurely meal with friends, the welcoming ambiance and high-quality food make it a memorable stop.
If you find yourself in Dalston—or even if you don’t—Mangal I is worth the journey. The combination of expertly prepared lahmacun, hearty pide, and authentic Turkish hospitality will leave you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your tea.
So next time you’re craving something new, skip the usual pizza or sandwich and treat yourself to the flavors of Turkey. Mangal I is proof that sometimes, the simplest menus can offer the most unforgettable meals.
