Amongst the sprawl of cheap buffet restaurants that inhabit the student-heavy area around Manchester’s Oxford Road, Efes stands out for its cosy atmosphere and excellent food. Get down mid afternoon or early evening to take advantage of its value buffet, which focuses on bold Mediterranean flavours.

The Venue
Just off Portland Street, on Princess Street, you will find yourself outside a small blue signed building called Efes Restaurant and Taverna. Nestled between the bustling bars of Oxford Road, and the bright lights of Canal Street, Efes is conveniently located and easy to find from the city centre.

The restaurant holds approximately 150 people and with its arched windows and murals of mythical scenes it retains a cosy and personal feel, that’s often lacking from other buffet restaurants. It must be said, though, that the furnishings are quite simple and a touch dated. The tables are shiny MDF with a stone effect surface and the chairs have a slightly seventies feel to them. With the tables arranged in neat rows, together with the small DJ booth at one end of the room, there is a mild feeling of being at family function.

The Atmosphere
What this restaurant may lack in appearance, it makes up for in the warmth of its staff and its friendly vibe. If you venture down in the evening you may find groups of colleagues having a work dinner or a party celebrating a birthday. After the feast is over, the diners may be entertained by a troop of belly dancers, who perform on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Given its location it makes a great starting point for a night out or an ideal refuelling point during the day. The staff are attentive, immediately seating you upon entrance, and they are quick to bring drinks over to the table.

The Food
This is where Efes really stand out from its competitors. You will not find any MSG, which so often beguiles buffets. The food is fresh with the staff regularly checking and replenishing the dishes on offer.

You may choose to start with their soup of the day or select from the extensive range of stuffed vine leaves, hummus, aubergine, and salad, all accompanied by fresh bread. Then move on to the selection of hot mains which includes an exquisite chickpea stew for vegetarians, beautifully light feta cheese parcels and spicy lamb koftas. For hearty appetites you will find pasta dishes, traditional moussaka, beef, and even a curry alternative if Mediterranean food isn’t your thing. Afterwards if you still have room for desert then you can choose from the tempting cakes, profita rolls, and fruit on offer.

The buffet runs 12noon-2pm and costs £6.95. Later on, between 7pm-10pm, it costs £8.95.

The Drink
The wine list is quite basic with a house red and white around £11.90 per bottle and a few more on offer for those who require something more. There are also a couple of Turkish beers available, Efes, £2.80. The drinks range is not extensive however, with the focus of this restaurant being firmly on the food, it doesn’t pose too much of an issue.

The Last Word
While this restaurant doesn’t have the panache of its upmarket counterparts you don’t visit Efes expecting Michelin star cuisine. What you will find is tasty wholesome food, in a hospitable atmosphere. A decent choice for an informal night out with friends.