The Most Famous Restaurants In Istanbul
Istanbul is a city where East meets West. It is famous for its rich history and lively culture. The city is also known for its diverse food scene. Whether you are seeking traditional Turkish flavors or innovative fusion dishes, the city offers a plethora of dining options.
This guide will explore the best restaurants in Istanbul. It will include places with amazing views and those in busy areas like Taksim Square.
Best 10 Resturants in Istanbul City
1. Mikla: A Culinary Experience with a View
Perched atop The Marmara Pera hotel, Mikla is a testament to the innovative spirit of Istanbul's dining scene. This restaurant offers a unique blend of Scandinavian and Turkish cuisines, curated by the renowned chef Mehmet Gürs. The wide view of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline makes dining at Mikla special. It is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food with a great view.
Signature Dishes
Mikla is renowned for its distinctive culinary offerings that showcase the perfect marriage of Scandinavian simplicity and Turkish richness. The menu celebrates creativity. It includes dishes like Balik Ekmek, a new take on the classic fish sandwich. This dish uses gourmet techniques and ingredients. Another standout is the lamb shank, slow-cooked with Anatolian spices that infuse each bite with flavors from the heart of Turkey.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The ambiance at Mikla is as much a part of the experience as the food. The restaurant has a sleek and modern interior. Its minimalist design lets the stunning views stand out. As diners eat their meals, the setting sun lights up the city in a golden glow. This creates a magical scene that makes each dining experience special.
Chef's Philosophy
Chef Mehmet Gürs believes in keeping traditional Turkish flavors alive. He also likes to use new cooking methods. He believes in using local ingredients for freshness and authenticity. He creates a menu that honors Turkey's rich food traditions while also including global influences. This philosophy is evident in every dish, offering diners a unique taste of Istanbul's evolving food scene.
2. Neolokal: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
Located in the Salt Galata building, Neolokal is a gastronomic journey through Turkey's culinary heritage. Chef Maksut Aşkar makes dishes that respect traditional recipes. He also uses modern techniques. This way, each plate celebrates Turkey's many flavors.
Highlights
Neolokal is known for its seasonal tasting menus that change with the availability of local produce. Each menu is a carefully chosen experience. It shows the best of what Turkey offers at that time. Sustainability is at the core of Neolokal's operations, with a focus on reducing food waste and supporting local farmers. This commitment to sustainability enhances the restaurant's reputation as a pioneer in modern Turkish cuisine.
Culinary Innovation
Chef Maksut Aşkar’s innovative approach is evident in his ability to reinvent traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. By incorporating modern cooking techniques and presentation styles, he breathes new life into age-old recipes. This smart approach not only pleases diners but also sets new standards in the food world. Neolokal is a leader in Istanbul's dining scene.
Location and Design
Neolokal is located in the historic Salt Galata building. This setting adds charm and sophistication to the dining experience. The interior design is a blend of traditional and modern elements, reflecting the restaurant's philosophy. With views of the busy city, dining at Neolokal is an experience for all the senses. It is a must-visit for anyone exploring Istanbul's food scene.
3. 360 Istanbul: Dining with a Panoramic Perspective
360 Istanbul is on the rooftop of a 19th-century apartment building in Beyoğlu. It has a lively atmosphere and amazing views of the city. 360 is known for its diverse menu that includes many international dishes. The atmosphere is just as important as the food.
Must-Try Items
360 Istanbul's menu features a diverse array of international dishes that cater to a variety of palates. The sushi platters are a particular highlight, offering fresh, delicately prepared rolls that rival those found in Tokyo. The Turkish meze with a modern twist adds local flavor to the menu. It offers a fresh take on traditional appetizers that are great for sharing.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Beyond its food, 360 Istanbul is famous for its lively nightlife. It features live music and DJ performances that keep the energy up. The restaurant becomes a lively place as the evening goes on. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists who want to enjoy Istanbul's nightlife. The combination of great food, stunning views, and entertainment makes 360 Istanbul a complete sensory experience.
Unique Features
One of the unique features of 360 Istanbul is its open-air terrace, which offers unobstructed views of the city. This setting provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a meal under the stars, with the glittering cityscape below. The restaurant's innovative design and layout ensure that every table enjoys a spectacular view, enhancing the overall dining experience.
4. Ulus 29: A Fusion of Flavor and Elegance
Located in the upscale Ulus neighborhood, Ulus 29 combines breathtaking views of the Bosphorus with a sophisticated dining experience. The menu features a blend of Turkish and international cuisine, meticulously crafted to please even the most discerning palates.
Chef's Recommendations
At Ulus 29, the culinary team takes pride in offering dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. The grilled octopus with olive puree is a highlight. It has tender, well-cooked seafood and rich, earthy flavors from the puree. The truffle risotto is a favorite. It mixes the rich smell of truffles with creamy, well-cooked rice. This dish is both comforting and indulgent.
Exquisite Dining Atmosphere
The restaurant's elegant decor and attentive service create an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication. The interior is designed to showcase the beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Large windows let diners enjoy the scenery while they eat. Ulus 29 is a great choice for special occasions and romantic dinners. It offers fine dining and excellent service.
Wine and Cocktail Selection
Ulus 29 boasts an extensive wine and cocktail list, curated to complement the diverse menu. The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to recommend pairings that enhance the flavors of each dish. Whether you love wine or enjoy cocktails, Ulus 29 has drinks for everyone. This ensures a great dining experience.
5. Karaköy Lokantası: A Taste of Tradition
In the heart of the trendy Karaköy district, Karaköy Lokantası is celebrated for its authentic Turkish cuisine. The restaurant has an art-deco style and serves traditional dishes. Locals and tourists come here for an authentic dining experience in Istanbul.
Popular Dishes
Karaköy Lokantası is famed for its lamb stew with eggplant, a hearty dish that showcases the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine. The tender lamb is cooked to perfection, absorbing the smoky notes of the eggplant for a truly satisfying meal. Another must-try is the stuffed mussels. This popular street food in Istanbul is well-prepared and seasoned. It brings out the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Ambiance and Decor
The restaurant's art-deco interior creates a nostalgic ambiance that transports diners to a bygone era. The decor features elegant touches and vintage elements that reflect the rich history of the Karaköy district. This lovely place, along with the friendly service, makes eating at Karaköy Lokantası a memorable experience. It truly reflects the spirit of Istanbul.
Cultural Significance
Karaköy Lokantası is an important restaurant in Istanbul. It is known for keeping traditional recipes and cooking methods alive. The restaurant serves as a cultural hub, where locals and visitors can experience the authentic flavors of Turkish cuisine. This commitment to tradition makes each meal delicious and a celebration of Istanbul's rich food heritage.
6. Nusr-Et Steakhouse: The Meat Lover's Paradise
Famed for its charismatic chef Salt Bae, Nusr-Et Steakhouse in Etiler is a carnivore's haven. The restaurant is renowned for its succulent steaks and theatrical presentation, making it a must-visit for meat enthusiasts.
Signature Offerings
Nusr-Et's menu is perfect for meat lovers. It features signature dishes like the Tomahawk steak. This is a large cut that is cooked well and served with style. The tender, juicy meat is seasoned to perfection, ensuring a mouthwatering experience with every bite. For dessert, the Baklava with ice cream is a popular choice, providing a sweet and satisfying end to the meal.
Unique Dining Experience
Dining at Nusr-Et is as much about the experience as it is about the food. The charismatic chef Salt Bae is known for his theatrical presentations, adding an element of entertainment to the meal. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make dining at Nusr-Et fun and memorable. This is why it is popular with locals and tourists.
Location and Ambiance
Located in the upscale Etiler neighborhood, Nusr-Et offers a stylish and comfortable setting for diners. The interior is modern and chic, with an open kitchen that allows guests to watch the chefs in action. The restaurant has a fun atmosphere. It also has a great reputation. This keeps Nusr-Et full of energy and excitement.
7. Asitane: Culinary Time Travel
Asitane is near the historic Chora Church. It offers a unique dining experience with a menu inspired by Ottoman palace food. Each dish is meticulously researched and recreated from recipes dating back centuries.
Unique Dishes
Asitane's menu takes you on a journey through time. It features unique dishes like Kuzu Incik. This is a tender lamb shank slow-cooked with spices once loved by Ottoman sultans. Another highlight is Mutancana, a meat stew with dried fruits. It offers a taste of the rich flavors enjoyed by the Ottoman elite. These dishes show a rich culinary history. They let diners experience the greatness of the Ottoman Empire.
Historical Significance
The restaurant's commitment to preserving Ottoman culinary traditions is evident in its meticulous approach to recreating historical recipes. Each dish is made with care, using traditional methods and ingredients passed down through generations. This focus on historical accuracy creates a unique dining experience. It also honors Istanbul's rich cultural heritage.
Setting and Atmosphere
Set in a charming location near the Chora Church, Asitane offers a serene and elegant dining environment. The restaurant's decor is inspired by Ottoman style. It has detailed designs and fancy furniture that take guests back in time. This focus on detail, along with the great food, makes dining at Asitane a memorable experience. It truly captures the charm of historic Istanbul.
8. Sunset Grill & Bar: A Symphony of Flavors
Sunset Grill & Bar sits on a hill in the wealthy Ulus area. It serves a mix of Mediterranean, Turkish, and Japanese food. The restaurant's terrace offers a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. This makes it a top dining spot in Istanbul.
Menu Highlights
Sunset Grill & Bar is known for its varied menu. It offers amazing sushi and sashimi platters that are as good as those in Japan. The grilled sea bass with herbs is a highlight. It has a great mix of flavors and textures that show off the fresh ingredients. These dishes, along with the restaurant's commitment to quality, ensure a dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
Scenic Views
The restaurant's location on a hilltop provides breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, creating a stunning backdrop for any meal. The terrace provides a clear view of the city. Diners can enjoy the beauty of Istanbul while eating their meals. Sunset Grill & Bar offers great food and amazing views. It is a top choice for anyone wanting a memorable meal in Istanbul.
Dining Experience
Sunset Grill & Bar is known for its relaxed and classy vibe. This makes it a popular spot for special events and casual outings. The attentive service and elegant decor create a welcoming environment that enhances the overall dining experience. You will be impressed by the restaurant's commitment to quality. This is true whether you are having a romantic dinner or a meal with friends.
9. Çiya Sofrası: A Journey Through Anatolia
Located in Kadıköy, on the Asian side of Istanbul, Çiya Sofrası is known for its traditional Anatolian dishes. The restaurant offers a changing menu that showcases the different food traditions of Turkey. This ensures a unique experience each time you visit.
Notable Dishes
Çiya Sofrası has many types of kebabs. Each one is made with real spices and methods that highlight the rich flavors of Anatolia. The seasonal vegetable stews are another highlight, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the bounty of the region. These dishes provide a taste of Turkey's diverse culinary landscape, offering diners an authentic and satisfying experience.
Cultural Exploration
Dining at Çiya Sofrası is a cultural exploration of Turkey's culinary heritage. The restaurant focuses on traditional Anatolian dishes. This makes each meal a journey through the region's many flavors and cooking styles. This commitment to authenticity makes Çiya Sofrası a must-visit for anyone wanting to enjoy real Turkish food.
Community and Tradition
Çiya Sofrası is not just a restaurant. It is a community center that celebrates the rich food traditions of Anatolia. The warm and friendly atmosphere, along with traditional recipes, helps diners feel connected. This makes them feel part of a larger culture. This emphasis on community and tradition ensures a dining experience that is both enriching and enjoyable.
10. Vogue Restaurant & Bar: Style and Substance
With its chic decor and extensive wine list, Vogue Restaurant & Bar offers an upscale dining experience in Beşiktaş. The menu has many international dishes. This makes it a favorite for people who want a stylish and relaxed atmosphere.
Recommended Plates
Vogue Restaurant & Bar is famous for its well-made dishes. One highlight is the lobster ravioli. It features soft pasta filled with rich, buttery lobster. This dish offers a truly indulgent experience. The beef tenderloin with pepper sauce is another standout, featuring perfectly cooked meat complemented by a flavorful, aromatic sauce. These dishes exemplify the restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Modern Elegance
The restaurant's chic decor and modern design create an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. The stylish interior and the beautiful views of the Bosphorus create a great place for a nice dining experience. Vogue Restaurant & Bar is popular for its attention to detail and stylish atmosphere. It offers a fashionable and relaxed dining experience.
Wine and Beverage Selection
Vogue Restaurant & Bar boasts an extensive wine and beverage list, curated to complement its diverse menu. The friendly staff is always ready to suggest pairings that bring out the flavors of each dish. This ensures a full and enjoyable dining experience. Whether you love wine or just want a good cocktail, Vogue Restaurant & Bar has something for everyone.
Embracing the Culinary Diversity
In conclusion, the food in Istanbul is delicious. It offers many flavors and cooking styles. Enjoying this food is good for both the taste buds and the soul. This experience helps you connect more deeply with the vibrant culture of this amazing city. Each restaurant on this list shows a unique view of Istanbul's food scene. They invite diners to explore and enjoy the many dishes this amazing city has to offer. Whether you live in Istanbul or are just visiting, the dining experiences here are unforgettable. They will leave a lasting impression long after your meal.
Istanbul has many great restaurants in the city center. They have nice decorations and offer quality service. Visitors from around the world come to enjoy their famous and delicious dishes.
This article will show you The most famous restaurants in Istanbul that you will not regret visiting.
The Most Famous Other Restaurants in Istanbul
Al-Madina Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul, located in the Taksim area. It is distinguished by beautiful decoration, excellent services, and staff who are fluent in both English and Arabic.
It also serves delicious meals to customers with calm music. The Sultan Ahmed Kufteci Restaurant is known for its simplicity and popular traditional seating.
The popular Kababji Mahmoud restaurant in the Fatih area is distinguished by keeping international quality standards.
The most famous restaurants in Istanbul are competitive in the quality of services, especially Burak Restaurant, which is located in the Levent area in Besiktas, and is distinguished by its delicious food, especially a loaf of bread engraved with the customer’s name.
As for the Turkish Istanbul Restaurant, it includes dining rooms that allow customers complete privacy in having their meals, while Sofra Akdeniz Hatay Restaurant offers the visitors the most delicious local dishes carefully prepared.
Nusret Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul specializing in meat and steak and a destination for tourists and celebrities, as it is famous for its beautiful atmosphere and family gatherings, Hoka Restaurant is unique in its outdoor seating with views of the landmarks of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait.
Whereas Kozo Bay Restaurant, which is located in the Basaksehir area, is distinguished by the special way of serving lamb meat to customers.
The most delicious dishes served in the most famous restaurants in Istanbul
To have a great time, enjoy delicious meals, and feel comfortable, visit the best restaurants in Istanbul. They offer many unique dishes.
In the city restaurant, grills, kebabs, stuffed lamb, pies, casseroles, sweets, tabbouleh, and grilled potatoes are served.
As for the Istanbul restaurant, the most famous foods on the menu are Turkish dishes, such as grills, sweets, local drinks, and sandwiches.
The most famous restaurants in Istanbul offer a variety of dishes to their visitors. In Burak Restaurant, oriental and Turkish food cooked in the oven or in pottery is served in startling ways that add to its elegance, under the supervision of Chef Burak, such as stuffings, grills, appetizers, and desserts.
As for Sofra Akdeniz Hatay Restaurant is distinguished by serving local Turkish meals, especially salads, falafel salad, basic dishes such as kebab, and desserts such as baklava. As for Sultan Ahmed Kaftaji Restaurant, it is famous for serving kebabs, appetizers, salads, juices, and pumpkin soup.
In the Kababji Mahmoud restaurant, which is one of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul, all kinds of kebab, appetizers, salads, pastries, soup, ayran, and Turkish coffee are served, and in the Kozo Bay restaurant, salads, appetizers, hummus and ayran yogurt are available, along with lamb dishes grilled in front of people on the low temperature for four hours.
One of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul is Nusret Restaurant, which offers a menu of all kinds of meats, desserts, and refreshments, and it features a meal of steaks with salt, as Chef Nusret sprinkles it on the slices in a fashionable way.
As for Hoka Restaurant, it allows you to discover the deliciousness of Turkish dishes such as meat, kofta, pastries, and chicken with vegetables fast food, and seafood soup.
The best restaurants in Istanbul by the sea
Istanbul boasts numerous wonderful restaurants located by the sea, offering a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Bosphorus or the sea. Here are some of the best seaside restaurants in Istanbul:
Huqqa Restaurant:
- Location: Bebek area.
- Description: Offers fantastic views of the Bosphorus with a modern atmosphere and a diverse menu.
Kız Kulesi Restaurant (Maiden's Tower):
- Location: A small island in the Bosphorus.
- Description: A unique dining experience in the historic Maiden's Tower with panoramic views of the city.
Sur Balık Restaurant:
- Location: Arnavutköy area.
- Description: A famous seafood restaurant offering a wide range of fresh seafood with views of the Bosphorus.
Lacivert Restaurant:
- Location: Kandilli area.
- Description: A luxurious restaurant located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus, featuring delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Ulus 29 Restaurant:
- Location: Ulus area.
- Description: Offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and serves exquisite Turkish and international dishes.
Feriye Palace Restaurant:
- Location: Ortaköy area.
- Description: Situated in a historic palace, it offers traditional and international cuisine with views of the bridge and the Bosphorus.
Bebek Balıkçısı Restaurant:
- Location: Bebek area.
- Description: One of the best fish restaurants in Istanbul, providing a great dining experience with a charming view of the Bosphorus.
These restaurants provide unique experiences for food lovers seeking beautiful seaside views and a wonderful atmosphere while enjoying their meals.
Working hours of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul
Istanbul's most famous restaurants welcome their visitors between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., throughout the week.
Enjoying Turkish Baklava when visiting Istanbul
Many people who visit the famous restaurants in Istanbul enjoy dessert from the tasty Turkish baklava shops. These shops are found in many parts of the city. The most important ones are:
- Karakoyoglu Store: It is located in Karakoy, near Galata, on the European side of Istanbul. It offers Turkish baklava in its original form. You can find all kinds, whether stuffed with walnuts or the best pistachios from Gaziantep. It also offers diet baklava stuffed with chocolate or dates.
- Hafez Mustafa 1864 is one of the most famous baklava shops in Istanbul. They serve baklava filled with pistachios, walnuts, almonds, and even chocolate. The shop has won about 11 medals at sweets exhibitions in Europe.
- Kashybiaz Store: It is located on the European side of Istanbul and enjoys a wonderful view of the Bosphorus mixed with delicious Turkish baklava.
- StoreFistikzade: It is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and serves delicious Turkish baklava.
- Guluoglu chain of stores: It offers delicious Turkish baklava and is distinguished by the eye-catching displays on the storefronts, which attract visitors and tourists.
- Koşkeroglu Restaurant: It is one of the most important restaurants that offer Turkish sweets, the most famous is Turkish baklava with ground Intaba pistachios and distinctive mountain, honey.
The most famous Arabian restaurants in Istanbul
Istanbul is home to many famous Arabian restaurants that offer a variety of Arabic dishes. Here are some of the most popular Arabic restaurants in Istanbul:
- Al Madina Restaurant: Known for its famous chef "Chef Burak," it offers a variety of Turkish and Arabic dishes.
- Siraj Restaurant: Located in the Sultanahmet area, it offers traditional Arabic cuisine.
- Lebanese Sultanahmet Restaurant: Provides traditional Lebanese dishes in a comfortable and elegant setting.
- Khan Al Vazir Restaurant: This restaurant is in the Fatih area. It is known for its Syrian dishes, especially grills and appetizers. There is also a branch in Sarıyer that has a view of the Bosphorus Bridge.
- Babel Restaurant: Offers distinctive Iraqi dishes, especially kebabs and grills.
- Tayba Restaurant: Located in the Taksim area, it offers a wide range of Middle Eastern cuisine.
These are some of the restaurants you can visit to enjoy Arabic food in Istanbul.
Services provided to you by Reyana Tourism
Reyana Tourism (Istanbul Private Tour) offers hotel and resort bookings and airport pick-up services in Istanbul.
They assist you in selecting suitable packages tailored to your interests in activities and tours throughout the year, covering the most beautiful destinations, diverse natural landmarks, and famous sites.
Benefit from the Istanbul tour program and sightseeing trips provided by early bookings for you and your family, ensuring a comfortable and unforgettable travel experience.
Steps to benefit from the Istanbul tour program with Reyana Tourism:
- Pre-planning: It starts with communicating with Reyana Tourism's team and devising a detailed itinerary, including identifying desired tourist attractions and activities and determining the duration of the stay.
- Choosing the suitable program: Reyana Tourism offers a variety of tourist programs that suit the needs and budgets of travelers, ensuring an enjoyable and comfortable experience.
- Arranging transportation and accommodation: Reyana Tourism's team arranges transportation to and from the airport and provides comfortable and suitable accommodation options, whether in luxury hotels or furnished apartments.
- Sightseeing: The program includes visits to famous tourist attractions in Istanbul, such as Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, the Ottoman Palace, and many beautiful museums and gardens.
- Cultural experience: Travelers can enjoy the Turkish culture and traditions by tasting traditional cuisine and attending artistic performances and cultural festivals.
- Comfort and relaxation: The Reyana Tourism tour program allows travelers to relax and enjoy their time without worrying about arrangements and organization, as the team takes care of all the details and needs.
- Communication and support: Reyana Tourism's team provides continuous support during the trip, allowing travelers to communicate and address any inquiries or requests needing assistance.
When choosing any tourist program in Istanbul or sightseeing trips in Istanbul with Reyana Tourism, travelers can enjoy a unique and unforgettable tourist experience combining culture, fun, and relaxation.
