NY Goes Turkish In May, And Local Restaurants Participate In Turkish Restaurant Week

Turkish-Americans celebrate their heritage this month with a week of restaurant discounts at participating eateries, a parade and festival, and an event at Borough Hall.

The 32nd Turkish Day Parade and Festival kicks off on Saturday, May 18, at noon. Organized by the Federation of Turkish American Associations, the parade takes place in Manhattan, with participants gathering at 56th Street and Madison Avenue and marching down to Dag Hammarskjold Park on 47th Street and 1st Avenue, where they’ll join with the festival.

The festival features Turkish music, folk dancers and more.

Here in Brooklyn, the organizations will celebrate with a taste of Turkish culture  during the Brooklyn Turkish Cultural Celebration at Borough Hall (188 Montague Street). There will be complimentary Turkish food prepared by local restaurants, along with more folk dancers and music, to be enjoyed by Borough President Marty Markowitz, other dignitaries, and neighbors. The event is Thursday, May 16, at 5 p.m.

But all week long this week – lasting until Sunday – locals can also enjoy a discount at participating Turkish restaurants, including four in Southern Brooklyn. Coupons and a full list of participating restaurants around the Tri-State area can be seen here.

But here’s the list of local restaurants:

• Opera Cafe & Lounge – 2555 Emmons Avenue
• Liman Restaurant – 2710 Emmons Avenue
• Istanbul Restaurant – 1715 Emmons Avenue
• Istanbul Fast Food – 2202 86th Street