A longtime Rice Village staple is officially closing for good. After nearly 30 years in business, Istanbul Grill & Deli is permanently shutting its doors at 5613 Morningside Dr. this summer. The Mediterranean restaurant‘s team made the announcement on its website and social media pages Thursday, saying that they’re unable to continue operating in the space they’ve called home for decades due to “lease circumstances” beyond their control.
“It has been our absolute pleasure to serve you, to celebrate joys, share sorrows, and watch families grow in this space. Every guest, every visit has shaped who we are and what this restaurant has become. The community we’ve built together means more to us than words can express,” the Dundar family’s statement read in part.
The Dundars did not say when Istanbul Grill would be closing, but did say the restaurant will be open until next month.
“Over the coming weeks, we invite you to join us for a meal and help us celebrate the memories we’ve shared together. We will share details soon about a closing celebration in mid-July. Thank you for trusting us, supporting us, and allowing us to do what we love – and for becoming part of our extended family,” the Dundars wrote.
Manti, housemade ravioli stuffed with ground lamb with garlic yogurt, at Istanbul Grill (Alison Cook)
Istanbul Grill & Deli opened in 1998, boasting itself as the “first and most authentic” Turkish restaurant in Houston serving authentic scratch-made Mediterranean food made with unique spices and ingredients including savory kebabs, pides, rice puddings and sweet, buttery baklava. Its closing marks the latest longtime Rice Village establishment closing its doors in recent years. The casualty list includes the Ginger Man, Thai Village and Prego, all businesses that had been in the area for decades.
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This article originally published at Istanbul Grill Houston closing in Rice Village after 30 years.