A CROWDED high street is the last place you would expect to find a corner of an exotic country.

But this is exactly what happened as soon as we walked into the doors of the Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant Guzel Meze Bistro Bar in Eastleigh.

Set among the shops, bars and takeaway restaurants in Eastleigh’s busy High Street, this small authentic restaurant is a hidden gem.

It feels like a loving Turkish family has invited you into their home as the door swings open and the warmth of the decorations take you straight to the Med.

Our waitress Julia, becomes an instant friend, as she takes our coats and brings over a bundle of plump warm olives with feta cheese while we peruse the mouth-watering menu.

This evening the restaurant is bustling with two large tables celebrating birthdays but still cosy enough for couples to enjoy the intimate surroundings.

I have never felt so torn between the jam-packed menu bursting with tempting Turkish delights.

Our meal began with a selection of hot and cold mezes including sucuk with haloumi (a spicy beef sausage and triangle filo pastries) which oozed warm feta cheese and herbs.

The leftover humus and yoghurt on the plate begged for us to dip in the soft pitta breads served up as a side dish.

This classic Turkish starter was full of different textures, colours and flavours making us eager to try the next course while we washed it down with a crisp white wine.

To follow, my partner enjoyed his chicken with yoghurt served with tomato sauce, luxurious thick yoghurt and melted butter so much I didn’t get a look in.

For me every mouthful of the traditional terracotta lamb casserole served in an authentic dish with potatoes and vegetables with a separate dish of tasty rice was stunning.

Each bite of the tender lamb left me admiring the careful cooking.

When we didn’t think things could possibly get any better, the most gorgeous combination of desserts like a work of art was delivered to our table. The fruit ice cream was exquisite, the freshly prepared rows of colourful fruit cleared the pallet and the baklava, triangles of pastry intertwined with honey and nuts, was enough to get me hooked on this eatery.

To sum it up the atmosphere was warm, the staff were welcoming and the food was delightful.

For those who are fed up with the dreary British weather, a trip to Guzel Meze is just the tonic.

The set menu cost £24.95 per person.

Guzel Meze, 1c High Street, Eastleigh 023 8064 7996