Mangal 1 is a long established Turkish ocakbasi on Arcola Street in Dalston, known for the large charcoal grill that gives the restaurant its name and character. The setting is lively, direct and informal, with the aromas of meat cooking over coals forming part of the experience from the moment guests arrive. It is a natural place for a quick kebab as well as a generous group meal made from shared plates.
The meal can begin with hot and cold mezze such as hummus, cacik, ezme salad, tarama, stuffed vine leaves and mixed olives. Lahmacun, falafel, grilled halloumi and crisp sigara boregi add warm options, while a mixed mezze provides an easy way to sample several flavours together. Fresh bread, shepherd salad and tabbouleh bring texture and brightness alongside the richer dishes.
Charcoal grilled meats are the main attraction, covering Adana kebab, lamb and chicken shish, chicken wings, liver, lamb chops, ribs, quail and sweetbreads. Yogurtlu dishes pair grilled kebabs with yoghurt and sauce, while the Mangal platter combines several specialities for two people. The heat of the open grill adds a smoky edge while careful marination keeps the meat tender and deeply seasoned.
Vegetarian diners can choose falafel, stuffed vine leaves, grilled halloumi, aubergine salad, vegetable moussaka and vegetable casserole, supported by bulgur, rice and grilled onions. Baklava and sütlaç provide traditional sweet finishes after the savoury feast. The restaurant’s bring your own drink policy and generous sharing format reinforce its reputation as an unpretentious Dalston institution built around fire, flavour and convivial meals.
Address: 10 Arcola Street, Dalston, London E8 2DJ, United Kingdom