Efes Restaurant

Razi Ul Hasan Alvi

a year ago

The building complex have several restaurants. Among these, Efes restaurant serves halal (Muslim) Turkish food. That is why this restaurant is always full packed. you need to make advance reservation to get space. I had various items there for dinner. Kebabs were really tasty, they also serve some excellent fresh juices. The attitude which amazed me a lot was that they celebrated a customer's birthday upon knowing it during card payment.

Vera Bolat

10 months ago

Efes is my go-to spot whenever I’m in Shanghai. Luckily, they’ve opened another branch near Jing’an Temple, so I no longer need to cross over to Pudong when I’m staying on the Puxi side. What stands out the most is that the Turkish owner is in the restaurant every day, personally overseeing operations—something quite rare for foreign-owned restaurants in Shanghai. They get very busy on weekends and especially during exhibition periods, so a reservation is a must if you plan to visit during peak hours. Ideally, go after 8:30 PM for the best experience. Efes only cooks with chargrilled fresh meat, never on gas or electric plates like some other Middle Eastern spots in town. That’s why you won’t find döner kebab or Iskender here—but their meat selection is much better. Their hummus is Mediterranean-style, with less tahini and more olive oil, not the Arabic version. This isn’t a fast-food place, so if you’re in a hurry, it’s better to come early or later in the evening. Recommended dishes: mixed meze, soup, Gavurdağı salad, Ali Pasha, and Sultan Sarma. If you’re in a group of 4 or more, definitely listen to the waiter’s suggestions for a set menu—it’s more cost-effective and makes for a better overall experience. Well done, Efes.

Mitch Kerr

a year ago

What a pleasant surprise to find an amazing Turkish restaurant during our visit to Shanghai! The place is popular so I would highly recommend booking ahead if you can. We were lucky enough to score a table upon turning up one night, but as we came a second night (it’s so good), we did have to wait 90 minutes for a table as they were flat out. (Nice little wine bar around the corner was great for waiting). The menu is substantial with a wide range of options available. We love lamb and all the dishes we tried were amazingly tender and fresh. The Pide’s were beautiful with a light pastry that was perfect for the tasty filling within them. The service is friendly and efficient and the pricing is very good value for the quality of the food. If you’re in Shanghai, Efes is definitely worth a visit!

HAMZA HAQ

5 months ago

Phenomenal Turkish food and experience. I would highly recommend this as the first halal restaurant on your list and the only Turkish restaurant to go to in Shanghai. The Host Philip is a lovely gentlemen who will look after you like his own. Highly recommend!!!

Pardis H.

3 months ago

The food is excellent and authentically Turkish. The owner is very friendly and welcoming. This restaurant is highly recommended!

HA Abdulla

10 months ago

My experience at Efes Restaurant was absolutely wonderful! The food is authentic, halal Turkish cuisine with rich flavors and generous portions. I tried the kebabs and Turkish pide – both were incredibly delicious and satisfying. The service was excellent and very fast. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and attentive. The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable, with tasteful decor that adds to the overall dining experience. It's a great spot for both individuals and families. Highly recommended for anyone looking for tasty Turkish food in Shanghai. I’ll definitely be coming back!

Ab Alshaikh

3 months ago

I had an exceptional dining experience at this restaurant. The grilled dishes were absolutely delicious, perfectly cooked, and full of flavor. The service was outstanding from start to finish, and the staff made us feel truly welcomed. A special thank you to Philips for his wonderful service — he was attentive, friendly, and made our visit even better. Highly recommended!

Sal Nazir

2 months ago

I come to China often for business. In recent years the halal options are going from strength to strength. This is by far the best Turkish food that I have had outside of Istanbul which I often visit. It's very central and a great find. The food was outstanding. The staff are extremely friendly. I was met by Philips. So kind and helpful.He made some recommendations all of which lived up to their expectations.

Ally J (Ally J)

2 weeks ago

We hd a memorable moment .. excellent service, good foods, cozy ambience .. Elisa’s warm welcoming service was a top notch! made us feel comfortable & worth every penny we spent. We even got complimentary chocolates, breads & keychain.

Peter LaBarre

2 weeks ago

It was not busy when I can in 445pm. I ordered stuffed vine leaves(without meat), Turkish rice, and the solo mixed grill. I ordered a (pita/pizza) with ground beef to go. All of the meat was tender and flavorful. The stuffed grape leaves are a little small, but decent and have a unique, slightly sweet flavor. Over all, I was satisfied with my order, but had I not ordered the rice as filler, I would have likely ordered more protien. Staff was responsive, but I wouldn't say highly attentive. They offered complementary Turkish tea and a small bite of (what I would call) nut infused brownie, chilled. Both were nice. I look forward to coming again.