Embark on a culinary adventure with our comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Istanbul, where the rich tapestry of flavours, traditions, and innovations comes to life. Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, boasts a unique blend of East and West, reflected beautifully in its diverse gastronomy. From the bustling streets of Sultanahmet to the trendy neighbourhoods of Karakoy, the city’s dining scene offers something for every palate.
Explore traditional Turkish cuisine in historic establishments that have been serving mouth-watering dishes for generations. Savour the flavours of succulent kebabs, aromatic mezes, and sweet baklava, each bite telling a story of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Venture into modern eateries where chefs blend traditional ingredients with contemporary techniques, creating culinary masterpieces that delight both locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re dining by the shimmering Bosphorus or in a cosy, hidden gem in a narrow alley, the best restaurants in Istanbul promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Join us as we uncover the top spots that define Istanbul’s culinary excellence, offering tips on what to try, where to go, and how to fully immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant food scene. Indulge in Istanbul’s culinary delights and let your taste buds be your guide.
Must-Try Foods to Eat in Istanbul
Istanbul, a city where East meets West, offers a gastronomic experience that is both rich and diverse. The city’s culinary scene is a reflection of its vibrant history, where the flavours of the Ottoman Empire blend seamlessly with modern Turkish cuisine. Here’s a detailed guide to what you should eat in Istanbul to experience the best it has to offer.
1. Turkish Breakfast (Kahvalti)
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, a delightful spread that typically includes:
- Simits: Sesame-encrusted bread rings, often enjoyed with cheese.
- Cheese: A variety of cheeses such as beyaz peynir (white cheese) and kasar (a type of yellow cheese).
- Olives: Both green and black olives are a staple.
- Menemen: Scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes, green peppers, and spices.
- Sucuklu Yumurta: Fried eggs with spicy Turkish sausage.
- Honey and Clotted Cream (Kaymak): A sweet indulgence often enjoyed with fresh bread.
2. Mezes
Mezes are small dishes served as appetisers or to accompany drinks. Some must-try mezes include:
- Hummus: A creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic.
- Muhammara: A spicy dip made from red peppers, walnuts, and pomegranate molasses.
- Haydari: A thick, garlicky yoghurt dip.
- Stuffed Vine Leaves (Dolma): Vine leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and currants.
- Ezme: A spicy tomato and pepper dip.
3. Kebabs
Turkish kebabs are famous worldwide, and Istanbul offers some of the best varieties:
- Doner Kebab: Slices of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, often served in a wrap or with rice.
- Sis Kebab: Skewered and grilled meat, typically lamb or chicken.
- Adana Kebab: Spicy minced meat, usually lamb, grilled on skewers.
- Iskender Kebab: Thinly sliced lamb served over bread, topped with tomato sauce and melted butter, with a side of yoghurt.
4. Seafood
Given its location by the Bosphorus, Istanbul is a haven for seafood lovers:
- Balik Ekmek: A fish sandwich, typically made with freshly grilled mackerel, onions, and lettuce, served in a crusty bread roll.
- Midye Dolma: Mussels stuffed with spiced rice and pine nuts.
- Hamsi: Fresh anchovies, especially popular in the winter months, either fried or grilled.
- Grilled Octopus: Tender and flavourful, often served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.
5. Street Food
Istanbul’s street food is an integral part of its culinary landscape:
- Simit: As mentioned earlier, this sesame-coated bread ring is a popular street snack.
- Kokorec: Grilled intestines, usually of lamb, seasoned with spices and served in bread.
- Lahmacun: Often referred to as Turkish pizza, this is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, and tomatoes.
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Cig Kofte: Traditionally made with raw minced meat and bulgur, but often found in its vegetarian form due to regulations, made with bulgur, tomato paste, and spices.
6. Pide and Borek
- Pide: Often called Turkish pizza, pide is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or vegetables.
- Borek: Layers of thin pastry filled with cheese, minced meat, or spinach, and baked until golden and crispy.
7. Desserts
Turkish desserts are renowned for their sweetness and rich flavours:
- Baklava: Layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
- Kunefe: A dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, filled with cheese, and soaked in syrup.
- Lokum: Also known as Turkish delight, these are soft, chewy confections flavoured with rosewater, lemon, or other fruits and nuts.
- Asure: Also known as Noah’s pudding, a mix of grains, fruits, and nuts, often flavoured with rosewater.
8. Beverages
Complement your meals with traditional Turkish drinks:
- Turkish Tea (Çay): Served in small tulip-shaped glasses, Turkish tea is a staple of everyday life.
- Turkish Coffee: Known for its strong flavour and thick consistency, it is often served with a piece of Turkish delight.
- Ayran: A refreshing yoghurt-based drink, often seasoned with a pinch of salt.
- Raki: An anise-flavoured spirit, often enjoyed with mezes.
9. Seasonal Specialities
- Kestane (Roasted Chestnuts): A popular winter treat, often sold by street vendors.
- Boza: A traditional fermented drink made from millet, enjoyed particularly in the colder months.
10. Unique Dining Experiences
- Ciya Sofrasi: Located in Kadikoy, this restaurant offers a wide array of regional Turkish dishes.
- Mikla: A modern, fine-dining restaurant with stunning views of the city and a menu that blends Turkish and Scandinavian flavours.
- Asitane: Known for its historical Ottoman cuisine, offering dishes based on recipes from the Ottoman palace kitchens.
Best Restaurants to Eat in Istanbul
Istanbul, a city where East meets West, offers an eclectic mix of culinary delights that reflect its rich history and vibrant culture. From traditional Turkish fare to contemporary fusion dishes, the city’s restaurant scene is both diverse and dynamic. Here is an in-depth guide to the best restaurants to eat in Istanbul, each offering a unique gastronomic experience.
1. Mikla
Location: The Marmara Pera Hotel, Beyoglu
Cuisine: Contemporary Turkish-Scandinavian
Overview: Perched atop The Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla offers breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus. Chef Mehmet Gürs blends Turkish ingredients with Scandinavian techniques, creating a modern dining experience that honours traditional flavours. The tasting menu is a journey through innovative dishes like the lamb loin with smoky eggplant and Anatolian herbs, paired with an extensive selection of Turkish wines.
Highlights:
- Stunning panoramic views
- Tasting menu featuring seasonal ingredients
- Elegant and contemporary atmosphere
2. Ciya Sofrasi
Location: Kadikoy, Asian Side
Cuisine: Regional Turkish
Overview: Ciya Sofrasi is a culinary institution in Istanbul, renowned for its dedication to preserving regional Turkish recipes. Chef Musa Dağdeviren curates a menu that changes daily, offering a variety of dishes from different parts of Turkey. Expect to find unique offerings like sour pomegranate soup, wild herbs salad, and stuffed quince. The buffet-style presentation allows diners to sample a wide array of mezes and main dishes.
Highlights:
- Authentic regional Turkish cuisine
- Daily changing menu
- Casual and inviting setting
3. Asitane
Location: Edirnekapi
Cuisine: Ottoman
Overview: Nestled near the Chora Church, Asitane is dedicated to resurrecting recipes from the Ottoman Empire. The restaurant’s menu is meticulously researched, offering dishes that were once served in the palaces of the sultans. Signature dishes include mutancana (lamb stew with dried fruits) and stuffed melon with spiced rice and meat. The elegant dining room and historical setting provide a regal dining experience.
Highlights:
- Historical Ottoman recipes
- Elegant and historical ambience
- Unique and flavourful dishes
4. Nusr-Et Steakhouse
Location: Etiler
Cuisine: Steakhouse
Overview: Famous for its flamboyant chef Nusret Gökçe, also known as “Salt Bae,” Nusr-Et Steakhouse is a must-visit for meat lovers. The menu features premium cuts of beef and lamb, prepared with a theatrical flair. Highlights include the tomahawk steak, beef fillet, and the signature “Salt Bae” burger. The lively atmosphere and impeccable service make for an unforgettable dining experience.
Highlights:
- High-quality steaks and meat dishes
- Entertaining and theatrical service
- Trendy and vibrant atmosphere
5. 360 Istanbul
Location: Beyoglu
Cuisine: International
Overview: Located on the rooftop of a 19th-century apartment building, 360 Istanbul offers panoramic views of the city along with a diverse menu that spans multiple cuisines. The restaurant transforms into a lively club in the evenings, making it a popular spot for both dining and nightlife. The menu features dishes like Asian-inspired tuna tartare, Turkish-style lamb, and an extensive selection of cocktails.
Highlights:
- Spectacular 360-degree views
- Fusion of international cuisines
- Energetic nightlife atmosphere
6. Karakoy Lokantasi
Location: Karakoy
Cuisine: Turkish
Overview: A beloved spot among locals, Karakoy Lokantasi is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine and charming decor. The blue-tiled walls and vintage furnishings create a cosy atmosphere, while the menu offers classic dishes like lamb stew, grilled fish, and an array of mezes. The restaurant is especially popular for lunch, offering a buffet of daily specials.
Highlights:
- Traditional Turkish dishes
- Cosy and charming decor
- Popular lunch spot with daily specials
7. Beyti
Location: Florya
Cuisine: Turkish, Steakhouse
Overview: Established in 1945, Beyti is an iconic restaurant that has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries. The restaurant is renowned for its grilled meats, especially the Beyti kebab, which is named after the restaurant. The opulent dining rooms and impeccable service provide a luxurious dining experience, making it a favourite for special occasions.
Highlights:
- Renowned for its grilled meats
- Historical and luxurious setting
- Excellent service
8. Balikci Sabahattin
Location: Sultanahmet
Cuisine: Seafood
Overview: Located in a charming wooden house in Sultanahmet, Balıkçı Sabahattin is a go-to destination for seafood lovers. The menu features a wide array of fresh fish and seafood dishes, such as grilled sea bass, octopus salad, and shrimp casserole. The restaurant’s tranquil garden setting provides a perfect escape from the bustling streets of Istanbul.
Highlights:
- Fresh and flavourful seafood
- Quaint and peaceful garden setting
- Traditional wooden house ambience
9. Ulus 29
Location: Ulus
Cuisine: Modern Turkish, International
Overview: Situated on a hilltop in Ulus, Ulus 29 offers stunning views of the Bosphorus along with a sophisticated dining experience. The menu combines modern Turkish cuisine with international flavours, featuring dishes like slow-cooked lamb shoulder, sushi, and truffle risotto. The stylish decor and panoramic views make it a popular choice for both dining and events.
Highlights:
- Panoramic Bosphorus views
- Modern and stylish decor
- Fusion of Turkish and international dishes
10. Neolokal
Location: Salt Galata, Karakoy
Cuisine: Modern Anatolian
Overview: Neolokal, located in the historic Salt Galata building, offers a contemporary take on traditional Anatolian cuisine. Chef Maksut Askar focuses on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. The tasting menu is a highlight, featuring creations like lamb with smoked yoghurt and pistachio-stuffed chicken.
Highlights:
- Sustainable and locally sourced ingredients
- Innovative take on Anatolian cuisine
- Historical and stylish setting
11. Pandeli
Location: Eminonu
Cuisine: Turkish
Overview: Housed in the historical Spice Bazaar, Pandeli is a storied restaurant that has been serving traditional Turkish cuisine since 1901. The blue-tiled dining room and old-world charm make for a unique dining experience. Signature dishes include lamb in pastry, stuffed grape leaves, and the famous hunkar begendi (sultan’s delight), a dish of lamb stew served over creamy eggplant puree.
Highlights:
- Historical setting within the Spice Bazaar
- Traditional Turkish dishes
- Charming and nostalgic ambience
12. Zuma
Location: Ortakoy
Cuisine: Japanese
Overview: Zuma brings contemporary Japanese cuisine to Istanbul, offering a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views of the Bosphorus. The menu features a variety of sushi, sashimi, and robata-grilled dishes. Highlights include the miso-marinated black cod, spicy beef tenderloin, and a selection of creative cocktails. The sleek and modern decor adds to the overall experience.
Highlights:
- High-quality Japanese cuisine
- Bosphorus views
- Sleek and modern ambience
13. Giritli
Location: Sultanahmet
Cuisine: Aegean, Seafood
Overview: Giritli offers a taste of Aegean cuisine in a charming setting near the sea. The menu is heavily focused on seafood, with dishes like grilled octopus, Aegean-style mezes, and fish cooked in vine leaves. The cosy garden and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal. The restaurant also offers a fixed-price menu with unlimited mezes and drinks.
Highlights:
- Aegean seafood specialities
- Cosy garden setting
- Relaxed and leisurely dining experience
14. Deraliye
Location: Sultanahmet
Cuisine: Ottoman
Overview: Deraliye takes diners on a journey back to the Ottoman era with its meticulously recreated historical recipes. Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, the restaurant’s menu includes dishes like almond soup, lamb shank with dried apricots, and saffron rice. The opulent decor and attentive service enhance the experience, making it a favourite among history enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- Authentic Ottoman cuisine
- Opulent and historical decor
- Central location in Sultanahmet
15. Sunset Grill & Bar
Location: Ulus
Cuisine: International, Sushi
Overview: Sunset Grill & Bar offers a diverse menu that combines international cuisine with a strong focus on sushi and seafood. The restaurant’s hilltop location provides stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Istanbul skyline. The elegant setting and extensive wine list make it a popular choice for special occasions and romantic dinners. Signature dishes include the black cod miso and the lobster tempura.
Highlights:
- Diverse international menu with sushi and seafood
- Stunning Bosphorus views
- Elegant and romantic ambience
16. Lades Menemen
Location: Beyoglu
Cuisine: Turkish Breakfast
Overview: For a traditional Turkish breakfast, Lades Menemen is the place to go. Located in the bustling district of Beyoglu, this eatery is famous for its menemen, a Turkish-style scrambled egg dish cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and spices. The casual atmosphere and hearty portions make it a favourite breakfast spot for locals and tourists alike.
Highlights:
- Authentic Turkish breakfast
- Famous for menemen
- Casual and bustling atmosphere
Exploring the best restaurants in Istanbul is a journey through the city’s rich culinary heritage and innovative dining scene. From luxurious fine dining experiences with panoramic views to charming local eateries preserving traditional recipes, Istanbul offers a gastronomic adventure that caters to every palate. Whether indulging in succulent kebabs, fresh seafood, or delectable desserts, the city’s diverse flavours promise to leave a lasting impression. For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience, the best restaurants in Istanbul are sure to deliver, making every meal a delightful discovery.
