Turkish cuisine in Umina

Traditional Turkish cuisine is being served in a Umina restaurant that is under new management.

The newly renovated restaurant, 304 on West, is offering its customers a traditional Turkish banquet.

"Our restaurant is unique on the Peninsula," restaurant co-owner Ms Natalie Kirbanciogiu said.

"On the last Saturday of every month, we offer a 10-course Turkish banquet.

"This gives our customers an opportunity to taste a little bit of everything."

The Turkish Banquet includes a number hot and cold meze plates, kebabs and pides and a tasting plate of traditional Turkish sweets to finish.

The Turkish Banquet menu changes every month and bookings are essential.

"Every other day we offer modern Australian cuisine with a Mediterranean edge," Ms Kirbanciogiu said.

"Our most popular dish is the macadamia-crusted chicken strips with a sweet mango salsa.

"We also offer an all-day breakfast and a wide variety of salads, burgers, pastas and seafood."

Ms Kirbanciogiu and husband Sulo have been living on the Peninsula for almost a year.

The couple took over the Umina Beach restaurant in July this year.

Mr Kirbanciogiu is the head chef at 304 on West and has more than 15 years restaurant experience in Turkey and Sydney.

Ms Kirbanciogiu grew up with her family in Umina and decided to come back to the Peninsula because it was the perfect place to work and raise a family.

"I love the Peninsula because it has such a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere," Ms Kirbanciogiu said.

"I especially love the beaches around here.

"It is such a special place.

"Sulo and I are extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to purchase the restaurant in Umina and begin to build our lives together here."

The 304 on West restaurant is open Monday to Friday 7am to 5pm and 8am to 5pm on weekends.

On Friday and Saturday nights the restaurant is open until late.

The menu has a number of vegetarian and gluten-free meals available.

Clare Graham, 6 Dec 2007