Savor the Flavor: Discover Affordable and Delicious Halal Turkish Dishes at Nar

Nar Behjat Topcu was thrilled when her husband, Cagri, decided to name their new restaurant, Nar Turkish Halal, after her. After years of chasing his dream in restaurants across Turkey and the U.S., opening this spot in Madison, Wisconsin, meant a lot to them both.

The restaurant opened in February at 1738 Fordem Ave. It’s a laid-back place where you can grab halal dishes like falafel ($11.99), lamb over rice ($14.99), or chicken wraps ($9.99). They are open six days a week, which makes it easy for locals to swing by.

Cagri draws from his extensive kitchen experience. He started in Turkey at a family restaurant before moving to New York and later working at a food truck in Los Angeles. The couple made Madison their home while Nar pursued her master’s degree in education at the University of Wisconsin.

The menu may be small now, but the Topcus plan to expand it with kebabs and homemade desserts. They also offer catering, takeout, and delivery. Their slogan is “plenty, tasty, cheap,” displayed prominently as customers enter. Nar emphasizes their goal: providing ample, flavorful meals at reasonable prices.

One intriguing ingredient is the lamb, which attracts many new customers. Nar mentioned that once patrons see it on the menu, they often don’t hesitate: “They see lamb. They want lamb.”

Besides the food, the restaurant’s atmosphere aims to reflect Turkish culture. Free tea is offered, and diners can enjoy traditional Turkish tea served in special glass cups. This thoughtful touch adds a unique experience that locals appreciate.

The location’s history is interesting, too. It has seen various businesses, from a bagel shop to a pet store. The couple took on the renovation themselves, showcasing their DIY spirit. They even share time-consuming projects on social media, making their journey relatable to their audience.

Currently, Nar and Cagri are juggling restaurant duties while caring for their 10-month-old son, Tuna. Nar’s mother is helping them manage the balance between work and family.

Cagri is meticulous about presentation, and their social media showcases his work ethic and cleanliness. Their hands-on approach and family atmosphere are resonating well with the community.

In an age where consumer preferences often lean toward fast food, establishments like Nar Turkish Halal provide a different choice—balancing flavor, culture, and affordability.

For further insights about the growth of halal restaurants in America, you might check out the Pew Research Center for more context around cultural dining trends.

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