Family-run takeaway Kolay Grill, which opened earlier this year, welcomed reporter Huw Richards to try out some of their menu items.
The delivery service claims to have had a “very successful” first few months serving Stevenage - so I went down to check in and try some authentic cuisine.
Located at Unit 29 of Stevenage Enterprise Park, the takeaway opened its doors on May 10, 2024, as a “brand new business venture” for director Charlotte Nash.
Since its opening, the staff have enjoyed TikTok fame, gaining over 4,000 followers and drawing in customers from across the country.
Its community focus and promise to deliver the “best customer service” rang true as I was greeted with open arms while speaking to the owner and chef who demanded an “honest review”.
The scent of the traditional charcoal cooking methods permeated from the takeout boxes full to the brim with an assortment of meats, rice, bread, salad and Baklava – a traditional Turkish dessert – we dug into the platter.
A mixed grill of lamb, chicken and donner meat had a unique barbecue-like taste with a welcomed kick of spice.
Accompanying the meat, was bulgur wheat and white rice with tomatoes and jalapenos – normally a bit spicy for me, I tried one and instantly regretted it.
Despite my mouth being on fire for several minutes, I was able to cool down with some flavourful garlic mayo as well as hearty portions of tzatziki and hummus.
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The portions were huge, leaving my family and I very satisfied and enjoying leftovers for days to come.
A portion of sweet Baklava then allowed us to cleanse the pallet and taste a piece of tradition that we have enjoyed on prior visits to Turkey.
Charlotte provided an update on how the business is progressing: “It's been a very successful first few months. We are truly proud to call Kolay Grill our family business and to call Stevenage our home, we hope to be here for many years to come.”
“We have had customers visit from Hertford, Newcastle, Hampshire and Manchester after seeing us on TikTok, and we can't wait to welcome more and more people to our area with a freshly cooked meal, and a smile.”
Customers can takeaway authentic Turkish cuisine six days a week between 4pm to 10pm - closed on Tuesdays.
Its services are also available online at www.kolaygrill.co.uk, by calling 01438 878059, or on delivery apps Just Eat, Uber Eats and Deliveroo.
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