Ali Ocakbaşı Turkish Food Barcelona

Ali Ocakbaşı Turkish Food Barcelona

Tucked into a leafy corner of Eixample, under the shade of a simple red awning proclaiming “Traditional Anatolian Grill,” lies a restaurant that transports you straight to the heart of Turkey without ever leaving Barcelona. From the moment you step inside, with its soaring ceiling lit by monumental lantern-like fixtures that look like upside-down tulip skirts, the space feels both theatrical and deeply comforting.

We are met and served by a young Sicilian man named Leonardo, who is charming and funny throughout and a die hard convert to Turkish fare. Describing in loving detail each dish on the large circular tray is brought to the table. It’s heaving with a vibrant array of meze: thick swirls of yogurt with herbs, crunchy lettuce leaves to wrap spicy lentil patties, smoky baba ganoush, and glistening dollops of muhammara, among others. It’s a joyful parade of colour and texture that sets the tone for a meal that feels celebratory in every way.

There’s ceremony to the service but none of the stiffness. The staff wear dark aprons and warm smiles, moving smoothly between the elegantly set indoor tables and the bustling terrace outside. Inside, ornate glassware—some rimmed with gold filigree, others painted in jewel tones—add a layer of richness to the white tablecloths and gleaming wine glasses.

At some point the owner Ako Birinci comes into the restaurant, elegant in light linen offestting his tan and blue eyes. Even before he introduces himself it’s apparent he is in charge as the energy of the place shifts to acknowledge his entrance. It turns out Ali Ocakbaşı is the first Barcelona offshoot of a homegrown restaurant – with 5 other Ali Ocakbaşı in Istanbul. Once we tuck into the food this makes sense. I feel like I am eating in Istanbul, I am just missing the cats vying for scraps of fallen food.

A main dish of grilled meats arrives on a long platter, nestled beside blistered padrón peppers, pilaf, and warm flatbread. Every bite carries the smokiness of the open grill, softened by tangy yogurt or a swipe through yet another vibrant meze. Another standout? The Ali Nazik—minced lamb over smoked aubergine purée, blanketed in garlicky yogurt and buttery tomato sauce—comfort food with swagger.

And finally, dessert: künefe, a disk of crisped shredded pastry filled with soft cheese and drenched in syrup, topped with crushed pistachios. Served warm with a scoop of dense vanilla ice cream, it’s the kind of finish that demands a moment of silence before the first bite—and possibly a second serving.

This isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment. A reminder that good hospitality, beautiful food, and thoughtful design can come together to create an experience that lingers long after the last glass is cleared.

Definitely a reservation-worthy spot for both midweek indulgence and weekend feasting.

Ali Ocakbaşı Turkish Food Barcelona
C/ d’Enric Granados, 69, 08008 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 667 18 86 78
Instagram: @aliocakbasi_barcelona
Reservations: aliocakbasi-barcelona.myrestoo.net