Enjoy Turkish Meals and Culture at Alihan’s Mediterranean Cuisine
Written by Cassie St. John
Looking for a spot to eat Downtown?Alihan’s Mediterranean Cuisine, located at 124 Sixth Street, is home to authentic Turkish dishes and genuine hospitality, making it a staple restaurant in the Downtown community.
The restaurant first opened in June 2013 with the goal of giving Pittsburgh a taste of Turkish cuisine and traditions. The owner, Alihan Hanoglu, learned everything he knows about food while growing up around his father’s kitchen. Now, at his own restaurant, each meal is cooked the way his family used to prepare their food back in Istanbul.
Alihan’s prides itself on the authenticity of their food. Their menu consists of falafels, pita, gyros, kebabs, sautes, hummus, and traditional salads, among many more options. Alihan’s is known for their authentic soups and has received awards for its greatness, including being named for having the “Best Soup” in the DNA’s Best Restaurants competition.
Image Courtesy of Alihan’s Mediterranean Cuisine
The restaurant always cooks with the freshest ingredients, from their hand-picked vegetables to their high-quality seafood. On top of that, all of their spices are imported directly from Turkey. They also have halal meat, gluten free, and vegan friendly dishes, so anyone can enjoy the rich, delicious flavors of Alihan’s dishes.
Beyond the food, Alihan’s stands out because of its welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has top-notch service and a warm family-style environment that makes it an enjoyable place to be. Alihan himself has said that “Everyone is family when gathered at our table.”
The design of the dining room continues the theme of authenticity. It is decorated with authentic handcrafted art pieces and belongings from Turkey, including a stunning chandelier and lanterns, beautiful ceramic vases and tilework, authentic glasses, serving pieces, and cookware, and intricate calligraphy. In addition, the elegant interior design and music selection create a comforting homey feel for diners.
The next time you’re looking for a delicious, authentic meal, stop by Alihan’s Mediterranean for fresh, flavorful food and an outstanding dining experience.
