Pasha in Turkish translate to Lord in the English language. Which sets the setting for the evening. We came here prior to going to the Opera so it was an early dinner experience. The quaint restaurant on the corner of 71st has two characteristic feel. Entering you are greeted with a living room parlour ambiance as if your elderly grandmother will serve you tea and coffee with day old biscotti. The dining area is an open space with comfortable banquettes and tables at feels like the elegance of the 50's. When ladies and gents got dressed up for their nightly supper. From the early seating, it looked like the clientele also came from that era. Service was friendly and quick.
The menu likewise is more regal menu reminiscent of the Turkish cuisine served for the Kings and Queens. Even the simple calamari has the added garlic walnut sauce. The artichoke heart with lemon, peas, carrots and potatoes was simple but flavorful. The carrots firm as was the potatoes. The peas weren't mush but were they frozen? The octopus salad was equally nice. The meat tender and flavored well. We shared the entrée special of charcoal grilled lamb medallions cooked perfect as ordered. Medium. The lamb tender still pink in the center. Simple but flavorful dish.
The Upper East maybe where the Sorority girls and Frat guys live but the Upper West side is where the old timers are. Tucked along this alley is a very good Turkish restaurant. Eating here makes you appreciate the youth, vitality and mortality. I do wish Ponce de Leon had found the Fountain of Youth. Reminisce of younger days all in a comfortable setting.
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