Best Restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu

Experience the Best of Turkish Cuisine with These Top Restaurants

If you are planning a trip to Istanbul, you must visit Beyoglu for an unforgettable culinary journey. This vibrant district is known for its lively atmosphere, historical landmarks, and mouth-watering food. In this article, we will take you on a gastronomic tour of the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu. From traditional Turkish dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone in this diverse culinary scene.

1. Çiya Sofrası 🍴

One of the most popular restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu is Çiya Sofrası. This restaurant is famous for its authentic Turkish cuisine that celebrates the diversity of flavors and ingredients in Turkish food. The menu changes daily, and each dish is made with fresh, local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include the lamb kebab, stuffed grape leaves, and the traditional baklava for dessert.

2. Karaköy Lokantası 🍴

Karaköy Lokantası is a modern restaurant that puts a contemporary twist on classic Turkish dishes. The restaurant is located in a renovated building that combines traditional architectural elements with a modern interior design. The menu features a variety of meze (Turkish tapas), seafood, and meat dishes. The standout dishes include the grilled octopus, lamb chops, and the famous Karaköy Köfte.

3. Mikla Restaurant 🍴

If you are looking for a fine dining experience, head to Mikla Restaurant. This Michelin-starred restaurant is located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel and offers stunning views of the city skyline. The food is a fusion of traditional Turkish cuisine with Scandinavian influences. The standout dishes include the smoked eel, lamb loin, and the Turkish cheese course.

4. Asmalı Cavit 🍴

Asmalı Cavit is a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Turkish meze and meat dishes. The restaurant has a rustic interior design and a warm atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The menu features a variety of meze, grilled meats, and a selection of Turkish wines. The standout dishes include the grilled lamb liver, homemade meatballs, and the baklava for dessert.

5. Nopa 🍴

Nopa is a contemporary restaurant that serves international cuisine with a Turkish twist. The restaurant has a sleek interior design and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts a trendy crowd. The menu features a variety of dishes such as sushi rolls with Turkish ingredients, wagyu beef tartare, and lamb chops with miso glaze. The standout dishes include the black cod with Turkish pepper paste and the chocolate fondant for dessert.

6. Lokanta Maya 🍴

Lokanta Maya is a charming restaurant located in a 19th-century building that serves modern Turkish cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy interior design with exposed brick walls and vintage furniture. The menu features a variety of meze, meat dishes, and vegetarian options. The standout dishes include the lamb shank with bulgur pilaf, the grilled octopus with fava beans, and the muhammara (red pepper and walnut spread).

7. Gile Restaurant 🍴

Gile Restaurant is a hidden gem located in a narrow alley in Beyoglu. The restaurant serves traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of meze, seafood, and meat dishes. The standout dishes include the grilled sea bass, the lamb chops with fig chutney, and the chocolate soufflé for dessert.

8. Zencefil 🍴

Zencefil is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant that serves healthy and delicious food. The restaurant has a cozy interior design with colorful tiles and plants. The menu features a variety of dishes such as lentil burgers, vegan kebabs, and mixed mezze plates. The standout dishes include the vegan moussaka, the stuffed eggplant, and the beetroot and avocado salad.

9. Meze by Lemon Tree 🍴

Meze by Lemon Tree is a small restaurant that serves authentic Turkish meze dishes. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and a friendly staff that makes you feel at home. The menu features a variety of meze, seafood, and meat dishes. The standout dishes include the grilled octopus, the eggplant with yogurt, and the Turkish dumplings with lamb.

10. Hayvore 🍴

Hayvore is a restaurant that serves traditional Black Sea cuisine. The restaurant has a rustic interior design with wooden tables and colorful rugs. The menu features a variety of dishes such as cornbread, bean stew, and grilled meats. The standout dishes include the anchovy casserole, the stuffed mussels, and the baklava for dessert.

11. Kösem Sultan Meyhane 🍴

Kösem Sultan Meyhane is a traditional Turkish restaurant that serves meze and seafood dishes. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere with live music and a friendly staff. The menu features a variety of meze, grilled fish, and seafood platters. The standout dishes include the grilled octopus, the anchovy pilaf, and the fried calamari.

12. Şimşek İskender 🍴

Şimşek İskender is a small restaurant that serves a famous Turkish dish called İskender kebab. The restaurant has a simple interior design with wooden tables and chairs. The menu features only one dish, İskender kebab, which consists of grilled meat with tomato sauce, yogurt, and bread. The dish is so delicious that people travel from all over Istanbul to try it.

13. Kiva Han 🍴

Kiva Han is a traditional Ottoman-style restaurant that serves Turkish meze and meat dishes. The restaurant has a luxurious interior design with chandeliers and velvet curtains. The menu features a variety of meze, lamb dishes, and a selection of Turkish wines. The standout dishes include the lamb shank with eggplant puree, the stuffed grape leaves, and the Turkish delight for dessert.

What Are the Best Restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

The best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu are the ones that offer a unique culinary experience that brings together traditional Turkish flavors with a modern twist. These restaurants use fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are delicious, healthy, and visually stunning. Whether you are a meat lover or a vegetarian, there is something for everyone in this diverse culinary scene.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul Beyoglu?

The best time to visit Istanbul Beyoglu is from April to June and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are small.

2. How do I make a reservation at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

You can make a reservation online or by calling the restaurant directly. It is recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak season.

3. What is the dress code for the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

The dress code for the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu is smart casual. It is recommended to avoid wearing shorts, flip flops, and beachwear.

4. Are the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu expensive?

The prices of the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu vary depending on the restaurant and the dishes. However, most restaurants offer good value for money, and the quality of the food justifies the price.

5. Can I find vegetarian and vegan options at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

Yes, many of the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some restaurants even specialize in vegetarian and vegan cuisine.

6. Can I find halal food at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

Yes, many of the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu serve halal food. However, it is recommended to ask the staff before ordering to ensure that the food is halal.

7. What are the payment options at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

The payment options at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. It is recommended to check the payment options before visiting the restaurant.

8. Is it customary to tip at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

Yes, it is customary to tip at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu. The usual tip amount is around 10% of the total bill.

9. Are the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu child-friendly?

Yes, many of the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu are child-friendly and offer kid’s menus and high chairs.

10. Can I find gluten-free options at the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu?

Yes, many of the best restaurants in Istanbul Beyoglu offer gluten-free options. It is recommended to ask the staff before ordering to ensure that the food