Neco Tantuni in Enfield Ranks Fourth on Vittles' List of London's Top Restaurants
Neco Tantuni, a Turkish restaurant located in Enfield, has achieved an impressive ranking of fourth place on Vittles' list of the top 99 restaurants in London. This list features a diverse range of venues, and Neco Tantuni stands out by placing above prestigious establishments such as the Michelin three-starred Core and The Ledbury. Only 40 Maltby Street, The Ritz, and Planque outrank it, demonstrating Neco Tantuni’s notable impact on London's culinary scene.
The restaurant is one of five Turkish venues included in the Vittles ranking and is among approximately 30 restaurants situated outside London's central zones 1 and 2. With seating for just over 20 guests, Neco Tantuni maintains much of its original greasy-spoon layout, including a live tantuni cooking display that highlights its signature offering.
Signature dishes at Neco Tantuni include tantuni priced at £5, yoğurtlu tantuni at £12, and künefe at £8. Tantuni is prepared using lamb or chicken wrapped in lavaş bread, accompanied by onions, parsley, sumac, lemon, and pickles. The preparation emphasizes moist, flavorful meat enveloped in bread, creating an authentic taste experience.
The restaurant is operated by the Kaya family, with Hafize Kaya serving as head chef and Eren Kaya among the owners. Neco Tantuni opened its doors seven years ago and offers an affordable dining option in contrast to more expensive establishments in the city. For example, two people can dine for under £25 at Neco compared to a five-course tasting menu at The Ritz starting from £199, and small plates at Planque can exceed £30.
Jonathan Nunn, the editor of Vittles, praised Neco Tantuni's dishes and expressed that he would consider every London chef to benefit from visiting Neco Tantuni as a finishing school, underscoring the restaurant's culinary significance.
