A Turkish-cuisine restaurant opened in Lexington this summer: Istanbul Palace at 393 Waller Ave. (near St. Joseph Hospital; in a little strip-mall directly behind the Backyard Burger.) Linda Blackford gave it a great review in last month's Herald Leader, and for something flavored a little differently than the great Middle-Eastern fare at Shiraz, Alwatan, Saffron, Grape Leaf, etc., it's definitely worth trying. They're open for lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat.
In addition to the standard apetizers like hummus, baba ghanoush, tabouleh and grape leaves, they have a thick yogurt/walnut/dill dip called haydari. I really enjoyed something called mujver--a sauteed patty of shredded vegetables drizzled with yogurt.
The menu includes gyros; kebabs of lamb, lamb & beef, chicken, and salmon; and vegetarian dishes (including a wonderful okra dish). They were spiced a little differently than the food I've had elsewhere. The tomato sauce there is really unique, too.
FYI, most of the appetizers were under $5, sandwiches under $4, and entrees around $10, except the lamb chops and the salmon at about $15.
*****
By the way, does anyone know the status of Jerusalem Cafe? Their phone number is disconnected.