What’s the best Turkish food in St Albans? That’s a matter of taste, but a recent local review gives you a strong place to start. Gemma O’Sullivan from Gem Lettings visited Havin on the High Street and ordered a starter, a charcoal grilled main and plenty of bread.

Instead of a generic restaurant list, this article follows her actual choices. You’ll see what she ordered, why it worked and how to build a similar meal if you’re heading there with friends.

Why Trust a Local Review?

Because it’s specific. Gemma doesn’t just say the food was good. She names dishes, describes portions and mentions what could be better. That honesty makes the review feel genuine, and it’s why people use local guides instead of anonymous ratings.

Gem Lettings has served St Albans since 2010, and Gemma has worked in rentals since 2002. She knows the town and spends time in it. When she says a restaurant is worth a try, it comes from someone who actually lives and eats around here, not a stranger passing through.

What Should You Order First?

Start with babaganoush. Gemma called it delicious, and she praised the homemade bread that came with it as soft and fluffy. It’s a gentle opener and it lets you test a kitchen’s basics before the bigger plates arrive.

For many people, a starter like this is what defines traditional Turkish food: simple ingredients, strong flavour and bread for scooping. If you’re new to the cuisine, it’s an easy way in. Share it across the table, and keep an eye on the bread basket.

Which Main Courses Stood Out?

Chicken Shish

Gemma had the Chicken Shish, swapping rice for chips. She described it as absolutely huge, very tasty and clearly cooked over charcoal. If you love smoky grilled meat, it sounds like the dish to beat.

Chicken Guvec

The Chicken Guvec arrived sizzling in the pan and smelt divine, according to Caz, who ordered it. It tasted amazing, and the portion was big. A hot pan dish is ideal on a cold December night, which is exactly when this meal took place.

Grilled Halloumi and Vegetables

Kerry, a vegetarian, had grilled halloumi with vegetables. Gemma reports it was also huge and apparently very good. So there’s a satisfying option for those who skip meat, which makes the place easier to recommend to mixed groups.

What Makes Food Count as the Best?

Opinions differ, but a few things matter to most diners: flavour, portion size, freshness and atmosphere. By those measures, the review is encouraging. All three friends said the flavours were brilliant, and every plate sounded generous. That’s a solid start for anyone chasing the best Turkish food in town.

Still, “best” is personal. Some people want a quiet room, and this one was noisy. Others want a quick lunch, and Gemma plans to try the lunch deal next time. Use her review as a guide, then judge for yourself. That’s the honest way to choose a favourite.

What Should You Know Before You Go?

Two practical points. First, the restaurant was packed, so booking is recommended. Second, it was very noisy, though a few big tables were celebrating. Neither is a dealbreaker, but both change how you plan the evening. Think about timing, group size and your tolerance for lively rooms.

Here’s a short checklist to take with you:

• Reserve ahead, particularly for larger groups.

• Share a starter to sample the bread and dips.

• Order a mix of mains so everyone can taste something different.

• Ask about the lunch deal if you prefer a calmer visit.

• Leave room, because portions are generous.

Could You Make a Whole Evening of It?

Easily. Gemma and her friends began with two hours of pottery painting at Pots of Art, where prices run from about £7 for smaller items to about £38 for a large plate. Her bowl cost £18, Caz’s dinosaur was £10 and Kerry’s mug was £18. Then they walked to dinner.

That combination works because it gives you something to do before the meal. Instead of arriving tired and hungry, you arrive relaxed and chatty. If you want authentic Turkish cuisine as the finale to a creative afternoon, this is a pleasant way to do it.

Why Does a Letting Agent Write Restaurant Reviews?

Because local knowledge is the heart of the business. Gem Lettings is an independent agency that knows St Albans, Harpenden and the surrounding areas, and it cares about the community. The website even mentions litter picking events at Verulamium Park. Sharing a good restaurant fits that spirit.

It also helps newcomers. Tenants who rent through the agency often arrive in a new town, and a real recommendation from a local helps them settle in. If you’re searching for a home, call 01727 750122. The team is happy to answer questions about the area too.

Conclusion

Havin looks like a strong choice for generous portions, charcoal grilled flavour and an easy, social evening. Start with babaganoush, share a few mains and book ahead. Whether it’s the best in town is your call, but this review gives you excellent reasons to try it.

FAQs

What starter did Gemma order?

She had babaganoush, which she described as delicious, served with soft homemade bread.

Was the chicken grilled?

Yes. The Chicken Shish was cooked over charcoal, according to the review.

Is there something for vegetarians?

Kerry had grilled halloumi with vegetables and enjoyed it.

Should I make a reservation?

Yes. The restaurant was packed on the night, so booking is recommended.