Though housed in a restored 19th-century mansion and with an elegant interior, Mabeyin features the earthy but intricately spiced food of Turkey's southeast, which has a strong Middle Eastern influence. Kebabs grilled with quince or loquat—a small, succulent fruit only available in late spring and early summer—are some of the unusual items on the menu, but even more interesting are the stews, such as one made with rice and meat dumplings in a warm yogurt broth or another that has two kinds of bulgur dumplings in a tomato-based sauce. Food is served in a splendid garden during warm weather. Mabeyin is a quick cab ride from the Üsküdar ferry terminal.
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