KAZAN RESTAURANT
Fine Turkish Cuisine Since 1980
PRESS
Regulars report you “can’t go wrong” at this longtime McLean Turkish establishment (since 1980), where chef-owner Zeynel Uzun rolls out a “good selection” of “tasty” dishes including a “succulent” doner kebab; “accommodating” service compensates for any decor deficiencies.
ZAGAT Review
The dimly lit dining room and background Turkish music make it perfect for a little intrigue -- perhaps one reason why it's a popular destination for [for just about everyone]. The diners are a curious mix; at lunch, there's often a table of clubwomen seated next to a group of male government officials. And at dinner, conversations at many of the tables are in foreign languages.
Caroline Mayer (Washington Post)
Though the exotic décor fell victim to a splendid Westernization, the exotic food remains. The imam bayildi (eggplant dish), hummus, and dolma are outstanding, as is the bread, which is tender, supple, and warm. Doner kebab, served only on certain days of the week, is a signature dish; and if you miss that, order instead any of the lamb dishes, either as ground or sliced. Of course, beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetarian dishes are also available, but the lamb is the best bet. Sweets come as an orange baklava (worth waiting for), a thick and rather bland Turkish rice pudding, and the more Western crème caramel and chocolate mousse cake
-Gayot
When you order the house special orange baklava at Kazan Restaurant in McLean, you'll enjoy a bit of royal dessert history. It's the same creation that Queen Elizabeth II proclaimed as her favorite during a 1971 state visit to Turkey. Restaurant owner Zeynel Abidin Uzun can attest to this, because he made it for her as a young chef at the famous Topkapi Palace Restaurant in Istanbul.
Bonnie S. Benwick (Washington Post)
For a delightful experience in Turkish fare, Kazan, a McLean staple for many years, is a must-visit. Try Imam Bayildi (“the most famous Turkish eggplant appetizer”) Sucuk Kizartmasi—a special sliced lamb sausage grilled and served with pickles and tomatoes, or the Coban Salatasi (Turkish Shepherd’s Salad) for a lighter bite. And don’t miss the special orange baklava, said to be a favorite of Queen Elizabeth, when Kazan owner made it for her during a state visit to Turkey over three decades ago.
FXVA
Kazan in the Turkish language means “a large cauldron” and it is generally associated with plentiful food shared by large crowds of people or families. Kazan Restaurant has been serving feasts to Fairfax families since 1980.
Poshseven