The Rosie Report: Cappacocia in Little Falls

Delightful Turkish bites abound at this colorful restaurant.

Whole branzino. Photo courtesy of Lowell Saferstein

Whenever Lowell and I have driven by Cappacocia, which opened in September 2016, I have said, “Let’s try that place.” Finally, almost three years later we dined here and are happy to report that we waited too long to visit this restaurant. Cappadocia is named for a region in Turkey known for hoodoo rock formations, hand carved Bronze Age caves and hot air ballooning. Google it. This area of the world is gorgeous.

A carrot rose was part of the colorful and beautifully assembled mixed sampler containing creamy lebneh, hummus, eggplant/tomato spread, stuffed grape leaves and the best smoky baba ghanoush we have had in a long time. Warm pida from Taskin Bakery in Paterson was a perfect sponge to wipe up every morsel on the dish. Not as successful were the bland and messy to eat, unpeeled, head on shrimp, presented in a clay pot.

Perfectly cooked charred branzino, seasoned with herbs, lemon and garlic was spilling off the platter. It was served with impressive sides of rice pilaf, green salad and crunchy shredded carrots in a vinegar/herb dressing. The same sides accompanied the Cappadocia combination plate containing kofte (beef and lamb patties), adana (skewered and grilled ground lamb), chicken kebab and shish (lamb) kebab.

Mixed sampler. Photo courtesy of Lowell Saferstein
Combination plate. Photo courtesy of Lowell Saferstein
Cappadocia Trio. Photo courtesy of Lowell Saferstein

Cappadocia’s version of baklava (Cappadocia trio) made with shredded wheat, walnuts, and honey topped with baklava and vanilla ice cream was dramatically presented on a black plate with strawberries. Equally delightful was kazandibi, a thick caramelized milk pudding topped with swirls of chocolate and finely chopped pistachios.

Service was customer friendly. When we told the waitress how much we enjoyed the distinctive shredded carrots, she brought us a bowl of this refreshing side and said, “These are made with love.” Also, although we had not ordered it, a Turkish tea that reminded us of strong Lipton tea was served gratis.

The restaurant tries to create some atmosphere with exposed brick and wood walls; mirrors: wood floors; colorful Turkish lamps; and figurines on the tables depicting the homes carved into the rocks of Cappadocia. One wall has large capital letters printing out “CAPPADOCIA.” Tablecloths and colorful Turkish lamps add to the ambiance.

Cappadocia, 117 Newark Pompton Turnpike (Route 23), Little Falls; 973-837-8737. BYO. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner.

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