If you find yourself wandering along bustling Hawthorne Road, the chatter of diners and the scent of charcoal might draw you into Downtown Istanbul. This lively Turkish restaurant has perfected the art of marrying street-food authenticity with an upscale dining experience. The atmosphere is instantly inviting—warm brickwork, soft Turkish motifs, and a hum of energy that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into a hidden pocket of Istanbul itself. Outside, the street seating offers front-row access to the neighbourhood’s hustle and bustle. Even on cooler nights, heaters glow gently and blankets are draped across chairs, making it easy to stay cosy while soaking in the lively scene.
We began with the traditional Turkish bread served gluten-free with three dips, and it set the tone for the meal beautifully. The bread arrived warm, its chewy centre giving way to a delicately crisp crust, perfect for scooping and swiping. The hummus, a classic blend of chickpea, tahini, and lemon, was smooth and bright, its citrus notes cutting through the creaminess for a perfectly balanced bite. The beetroot dip, whipped with yoghurt, garlic, and olive oil, brought an earthy sweetness tempered by a garlicky kick and velvety texture. But it was the muhammara—a roasted red pepper and walnut blend—that stole the show. Smoky, slightly nutty, and just a little bit fiery, it was the kind of dip you keep reaching for even after you’re full.
Then came the star attraction: the Taste of Turkey platter. A generous spread of chicken shish, lamb cutlets, adana shish, and beef arrived on a platter that could have easily fed more than two hungry diners. Each meat was cooked to perfection, juicy and succulent, kissed by smoke from the grill. The chicken shish was tender and marinated just enough to let the charred edges shine.
The lamb cutlets were rich and flavourful, the sort of cut you pick up with your hands to get every last morsel. The adana shish carried a satisfying warmth—spiced but not overpowering—while the beef was hearty and perfectly seasoned, a reminder that simple, high-quality ingredients need little embellishment. It’s the kind of platter that turns dinner into an event, each bite offering a slightly different taste of Turkey’s culinary landscape.
What makes Downtown Istanbul special isn’t just the food, though it’s certainly a big part of it. It’s the combination of generous servings, affordable prices, and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger. The staff manage that sweet spot between attentiveness and ease, giving you space to enjoy your meal while making sure you have everything you need. Sitting outside as the lights of Hawthorne flicker and the sounds of the neighbourhood drift by, it’s easy to forget you’re not halfway across the world.
Downtown Istanbul is more than a restaurant—it’s a little escape. Whether you’re sharing dips over a casual catch-up or diving into a platter that could feed a small army, you leave not just full but a little enchanted. It’s a place that wraps you in warmth, feeds you generously, and reminds you how delightful simple, well-cooked food can be. For Hawthorne locals and anyone passing through, this Turkish gem is well worth the stop.
Downtown Istanbul, 276 Hawthorne Rd, Hawthorne QLD. p. (07) 3902 0726
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
