Eat Your Way Around The World - Turkish

Having had a stressful week moving house I was so ready for our dinner at Manolya. I'd only visited during the day, when I made the reservation, so I was a little unsure what to expect this evening. But I was pleasantly surprised. Manolya was bustling and busy, it had a lovely atmosphere. The staff were welcoming and very friendly - huge plus - which adds to the whole experience. The menu was extensive, I'd secured us a three course for £22 deal but we still have a great selection to choose from. Our starters arrived quickly and were delicious. I felt, as did many others, like I was on holiday. Everything had that Mediteranean feel to it. It was a lovely relaxed feeling after a stressful week! Whilst we were tucking into our starters a beautiful (not always the case) and slender (definitely not always the case!) Belly Dancer appeared. She danced around the restaurant and was really good. I actually wanted to sit and watch rather than sitting akwardly, head down, pretending to deeply concentrate on eating my dinner, as is often the case when you go to a restaurant or bar and they have entertainment. There was no akward 'oh no, is she going to grab me to get up and dance' moments. She was very professional and really very good. Our main courses were yummy, everything had that holiday chargrilled deliciousness. I think everyone wolfed down their food. I chose the seabass which was a generous portion and utterly divine. I wouldn't hesitate to order that again. As I sit and write this I can't for the life of me remember the deserts. I know there was a fab choice and they sounded good - but probably as I opted for a coffee I can't remember what they were. Oooooh yes I remember one, a rice pudding which John enjoyed, it looked delicious and I wished I wasn't lacto intolerant so I could have pinched some! Everyone left this evening full and content - always a good sign. There was non stop chatter throughout the meal, so it was clearly a good chance for everyone to catch up and meet new members. I didn't want it to end, coming home to a house full of packing boxes bought me back down to reality with a bump!