A popular Turkish family-run restaurant in Catford bringing “heartfelt hospitality” has celebrated its first award this year – after starting just one year ago.
The restaurant, owned by husband and wife duo Aiga and Sami Maras, opened its doors in March 2023 and recently celebrated its first year in business, serving authentic Turkish cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Since opening just over a year ago, the restaurant has grown in popularity, raking in over 800 reviews with a 4.8-star rating on Google.
Last night (November 19) the restaurant received a special commendation award in the category of Best Restaurant at the Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards 2024.
The Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards showcases the best of Lewisham’s businesses, from food and hospitality to leisure and the arts, awarding businesses across 14 categories.
The restaurant received a special commendation award in the category of Best Restaurant at the Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards 2024. (Image: The Real Turkish) Restaurant owner Aiga Maras said: “When we started 18 months ago, we had three simple goals: cook great Turkish food, craft amazing cocktails, and, most importantly, bring heartfelt Turkish hospitality to the people of Catford.
“We give it our all to ensure our customers feel welcome, cared for, and appreciated. Receiving this recognition and knowing so many people took the time to vote for us is incredibly rewarding.
“We’ve also seen exciting growth over the past year.
“Our Google rating has climbed to 4.8 - despite starting with a 4.5 rating from 100 reviews when we took over the existing business page. We’re now proud to have over 800 review."
The business, which is located in Rushey Green within close distance to Lewisham Town Hall and Catford Broadway Theatre, offers a “family friendly” eating space and is also a popular eating spot for the Mayor of Lewisham – Brenda Davies herself.
Some of the most popular dishes with diners include their Shish Kebabs along with their Caribbean Breeze cocktail and milkshakes.
Aiga added: “It hasn’t been without challenges - keeping on top of overheads is still hard work - but we’re beginning to feel like we can breathe a little easier.
“There’s still a long way to go to bring The Real Turkish to where we envision it, but this recognition is proof we’re moving in the right direction.
“This award was a wonderful thing to receive and being there and seeing The Real Turkish name on the screen alongside so many amazing businesses felt incredible.”
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