LUNA: a Turkish Cuisine find

LUNA in West Palm Beach, Florida:   An authentic Turkish restaurant is a delectable and rare find in any US city.  Fortunately for West Palm Beach, an affordable one, called Luna, just opened downtown on Clematis Street with authentic Turkish cuisine to excite any jaded palate. Turkish-American general coordinator Osman Mehter created a charming ambience for dining al fresco near the promenade or inside, a comfortable  bar and dining room that converts to a supper club–the Luna Lounge–complete with stage and piano. The Gloria Waldman Swing Combo, a vocalist and five-piece band, appears on Dec. 9, no cover or minimum.    

Osman, Chef Ziya

 The cuisine is well worth experiencing.  Chef Rauf Ziya from the Turkish city of Adana has owned some 13 restaurants in the U.S. before he was hired at Luna to create magic in the kitchen.  

Hot and cold appetizers include grilled Calamari (soft, tender, healthy), a flavorful humus and smoked eggplant that is addicting;  falafel and  many other delicious, freshly prepared  Mediterranean offerings, each platter for $5.50 or $5.95.         

 One signature main course is the hand-chopped Adana chicken, from the chef Ziya’s city; thin, succulent strips of white meat with pepper, parsley and garlic that takes several hours to prepare.  It is served over rice or with succulent lamb chops as the chef’s specialty mixed grill.  

Gloria, Osman, mixed grill

Marinated lamb and chicken shish kebab, stuffed cabbage, shrimp in tomato sauce topped with kassan cheese and grilled meatball patties are just a few entrees, which range from $15 – $22. 

 Even if you’re bursting at the seams by now, Luna’s Turkish desserts made to order are a must.  You may think you know rice pudding… you don’t till you’ve tasted the kadayif almond rice pudding which is unforgettable.  The baklava is original and not too sweet, best taken with thick, delicious Turkish coffee or tea.  

Friendly, adorable bi-lingual (Turkish) waitresses Serrena and Flower were attentive and delightful.    

After a wonderful dinner at Luna, enjoy a romantic walk past the fountain along the lovely promenade and across Flagler onto one of the new piers adorned with tube lighting stretching over Lake Worth.  The area’s charm and beauty will lift your spirits.  

Luna, authentic Turkish cuisine:  207 Clematis St, West Palm Beach, Fl. 33401;  561/629-5252