Dining Guide

Can’t get to Istanbul this year? Instead, drive to Rocklin for authentic Turkish fare from Anatolian Table. An otherwise bland strip-mall location is enlivened with ornate objets d’art like hanging glass-mosaic light fixtures, exotically curvy coffeepots and colorful tiles, but the real focus is the food. A long menu of specialties ranges from the expected (lamb kebabs) to the surprising, such as manti (ravioli-like dumplings) and fried liver (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it). Whether you go with a small group or a crowd, don’t miss the appetizer platters, large plates loaded with an array of cold spreads and vegetable dips, arranged like the spokes of a wheel: oily, smoky eggplant spread, creamy walnut-studded yogurt, hummus and more, all with a puffy, fresh flatbread for dipping. Other hits include pides (boat-shaped meat or vegetable pies) and the grilled meats and fish dishes. It’s not easy, but leave room for dessert and a thick, strong Turkish coffee; the gracious service will make you feel like lingering. . Rocklin.