Nestled in the heart of Handsworth, a 15-minute drive from central Sheffield, Engin’s Bar & Grill is a family-run Turkish restaurant that offers an authentic taste of Mediterranean grill cuisine. Run by Head Chef Engin and his wife, Gyonyul Dzhansever, the restaurant has quickly become something of a local hotspot, earning a reputation for hearty dishes crafted with passion, fresh ingredients and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Engin’s passion for cooking was sparked in his native Turkey, where his culinary journey began. After honing his skills for over 15 years in various kitchens, including some of London’s renowned Mediterranean restaurants, he finally fulfilled a dream of having his own place by opening Engin’s Bar & Grill in 2022.
Operations Manager Gyonyul Dzhansever tells Exposed: “Engin does it all – sourcing ingredients, cooking and managing the kitchen. His dedication shows in everything we serve. People come for the warmth of his hospitality and the genuine Turkish flavours.”
Engin’s menu celebrates the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean. Diners can start with classics like hot and cold sharing mezzes of hummus, halloumi, saksuka, sucuk and more, perfect for those wanting to sample a range of textures and tastes. For mains, the Mixed Grill stands out as a customer favourite. This platter combines succulent chicken shish, lamb shish, lamb chops and spicy Adana mince, served with freshly baked bread, bulgur and salad.
“The Mixed Grill is our most popular dish,” says Gyonyul. “It’s perfect for people trying Turkish cuisine for the first time. They get a bit of everything in one meal.”
Other highlights include Engin’s signature sauces, which he makes fresh daily, and vegetarian-friendly options like the Vegetable Kebab, best served with a side of grilled halloumi, and the Imam Biyaldi – slow-cooked aubergines stuffed with a rich medley of tomatoes, onions, garlic and fragrant spices, all simmered in olive oil until tender.
With space for just 22 diners, the restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of dining in a traditional Turkish home. Gyonyul describes it as “nice and cosy, with Turkish music and a warm vibe. We want our guests to feel like they’ve stepped into a neighbourhood restaurant village in Turkey.”
Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly encouraged. The restaurant’s small size also means a personalised experience for every guest. “Engin is here every evening, greeting customers and cooking. People love knowing that the name above the door is also the one preparing their meal.”
Full embracing its role as a community hub, the restaurant hosts special celebrations, including Women’s Day events, caters for corporate occasions and offers private bookings for up to 22 people (perfect for getting the family together over the holidays). For those preferring to stay home, Engin’s also offers a festive delivery service, providing generous portions of their finest dishes for gatherings.
“Our food is made to be shared,” Gyonyul says. “Whether it’s a special starter board or a mixed grill, we encourage people to come together and enjoy it as a group.”
Located on Handsworth Road, Engin’s Bar & Grill is easy to reach by bus or taxi from Sheffield city centre, and it’s well worth the journey.
“It’s a hidden gem,” says Gyonyul. “We’re outside the city centre, but we’ve got customers coming from all over Sheffield and beyond. It’s about experiencing something real and authentic, not just another chain. Other places might pile up plates with salad fillers and bland food, but we focus on flavour. Everything is fresh, local and made with care. That’s what makes us unique.”
Engin’s Bar & Grill is located at 370 Handsworth Road, Sheffield, S13 9BY. Open Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm to 10pm and Sunday from 1pm to 9pm.
To book a table or explore their menu, visit: www.enginsturkishgrill.co.uk // @enginsbargrill
