Usta Turkish & Mediterranean Restaurant

Everything we ordered was fresh and yummy. Lentil soup was delicious and what we needed for a cool rainy day. Service was awesome. We would definitely go back next time we are back in the Halifax region.

Saturday, 29 JulyWe arrived before 12:30 for lunch. A lot of time and effort went into creating a decor that is pleasing and colourful. The layout of the restaurant is in the shape of an L, which lends itself to a cozy atmosphere with large windows rather than one large table laden room. We ordered lunch specials, I the Kofte Kebab and my lunch date the Veggie Platter. Lunch Specials consist of soup, salad, main course and baklava with Turkish tea or coffee. We didn't have to wait long for our lentil soup accompanied with herb seasoned flat bread. The lentil soup was lovely with unique use of herbs I've never tasted before. My salad and main course arrived together with a side of chili sauce and Cacik. The side sauces were delicious. I was impressed with the salad and dressing. No awkward leafy salads but chunks of freshly cut vegetables. The kebab was not bland, but well seasoned. Tea and baklava. I've never had Turkish tea before and it went well with the baklava. Baklava. Oh my goodness. That was the best baklava I've ever had. It's not the typically thick pastry with so much honey that sometimes you can't taste the ground nuts. The phyllo is light with a thin layer of ground nuts and some honey. The slight sweetness did not over power, but complimented the ground nuts. I found out from Sharif that he made the baklava that very morning! I want to return to order the Veggie Platter.

This is such a hidden gem. A must try. I have been several times and the food is consistently fabulous. If you live in Dartmouth- go! You will love it. If you don't live in Dartmouth... just jump in your car and go there. Or, take the bus - it's walking distance from the terminal on Portland street. Visitors - take a taxi if needed. I'd make recommendations on what to order, but it's all so good I can't decide...

We visited Usta for Mother's Day dinner as we live very close and has heard some great reviews. Our experience certainly did not disappoint. We had a delicious mix of appetizers to begin with and we were able to try many new items that we would not of before. The atmosphere is very welcoming with pleasant decorations. The food was delicious and the wait staff were excellent. I would highly recommend this for anyone who enjoys Mediterranean food and would like to support a local Dartmouth business! We will be back.

My wife and I with another couple had a deli ship us lunch. Their lunch deals including soup, salad and main and then desert is a good price. Warm pita bread was placed on our table. The soup was lentil with a hint of mint. Our mains and the Mediterranean salad was tasty, fresh and well prepared. The baklava was delicious as well as the Turkish coffee.