Ayse's Turkish Cafe

The restaurant was very cozy, clean and welcoming. The food was superb, particularly the extremely tender lamb, and the waiter was friendly and attentive. We will definitely go back soon! Update: We came back two weeks later and the food was once again truly delicious. The staff were also very friendly, and the environment was clean and cozy. Please be aware that the menu changed from last time, so I believe the specials are updated regularly. Update 03/03/2022: We came with a friend today for dessert. Even though we arrived half an hour before closing, they very kindly let us in and the food was delicious! I particularly liked the Noah's Pudding, made with tasty rose water syrup. The restaurant was immaculately clean and very welcoming. Update 03/19/2022: We experienced the special meze event with a dear friend of ours. The food was excellent and had clearly taken great effort to prepare. I particularly liked the stuffed cabbage and spicy atom. The staff were all very friendly and attentive, and the owner was incredibly flexible to accommodate our needs.

It’s a little like having a Turkish friend who’s mom invited you to join them for dinner. Check the photos to see a few of the shots I took while at Ayse’s. I liked the Allspice Chicken I ordered today. It’s served with rice with vermicelli, and I added the red lentil soup. The Ground Lamb with Eggplant entree looked pretty solid as well. They have a variety of cold desserts, some actually quite healthy. I can’t say enough about how delicious and healthy everything is here... and so different from the usual dining spots in Ann Arbor. I’ll definitely eat here again.

This review is long overdue. Although I do wish they offered online ordering (I work in the same complex, but I am so often rushed to eat during the day - and would love a way to order food in advance), their food is amazing. I highly recommend the lentil soup - and all of their salads and stews are fantastic. I also love that they always have something I can eat despite my dietary restrictions. And Ayse and her husband are amazing people.