Discover the Best Restaurants in Istanbul

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul and wondering where you can find the best restaurants to enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine? Look no further! Istanbul is home to countless eateries serving up traditional Turkish dishes with unique twists, as well as international cuisine. In this article, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best restaurants in Istanbul, so you can experience the city’s culinary delights to the fullest.

1. Turkish Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi 🍳

Start your day off right with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi. This cozy spot is known for its hearty breakfast spreads featuring fresh bread, olives, cheeses, jams, and eggs cooked to perfection. The friendly staff and charming atmosphere make for an unforgettable dining experience.

2. Fine Dining at Mikla 🍴

If you’re looking for an elegant fine dining experience, head to Mikla, located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel. The restaurant boasts panoramic views of the city skyline and serves up creative Turkish dishes with a modern twist. The tasting menu is a must-try for foodies looking to indulge in a culinary journey.

3. Authentic Turkish Cuisine at Asitane 🍲

For a taste of authentic Ottoman cuisine, head to Asitane. The restaurant is located in the historic Edirnekapı neighborhood and serves up dishes inspired by recipes from the Ottoman palace kitchens. The lamb shank and eggplant kebab are fan favorites, and the ambiance of the restaurant is perfect for a romantic evening out.

4. Seafood at Balıkçı Sabahattin 🐟

If you’re a fan of seafood, make a reservation at Balıkçı Sabahattin. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up fresh fish and seafood since the 1950s and is known for its impeccable quality and traditional preparation methods. The grilled octopus and sea bass are particularly mouthwatering.

5. Vegan Delights at Lokanta Maya 🥦

If you’re looking for vegan-friendly options, Lokanta Maya is the place to be. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by seasonal produce and local ingredients, with creative dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. The lentil meatballs and roasted cauliflower are highly recommended.

6. Street Food at Kızılkayalar Hamburger 🍔

No visit to Istanbul is complete without sampling some of the city’s famous street food. Kızılkayalar Hamburger is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, serving up juicy burgers with all the fixings. The restaurant has been in business since the 1950s and has maintained its reputation for delicious, affordable food.

7. Rooftop Bar at 360 Istanbul 🍸

For a night out with a view, head to 360 Istanbul. This rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the city skyline, along with creative cocktails and a trendy atmosphere. The bar is also known for its live music performances and DJ sets.

8. Turkish Delights at Hafız Mustafa 🍬

Complete your dining experience with a visit to Hafız Mustafa, a beloved Turkish sweet shop. The shop has been in business since 1864 and serves up a wide variety of traditional sweets, from baklava to Turkish delight. The perfect way to end your culinary journey in Istanbul.

9. Where can I find the best Turkish breakfast in Istanbul?

Van Kahvaltı Evi is widely regarded as the best spot for a traditional Turkish breakfast in Istanbul. The cozy restaurant offers a variety of breakfast spreads featuring fresh bread, olives, cheeses, jams, and eggs cooked to perfection.

10. What is the best day of the week to visit Balıkçı Sabahattin?

Balıkçı Sabahattin is popular among locals and tourists alike, so it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time to ensure a table. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, but the restaurant is worth a visit no matter the day of the week.

11. Can I find vegan-friendly options in Istanbul?

Yes! Istanbul has a growing vegan and vegetarian food scene, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Lokanta Maya is a popular spot for vegan-friendly options, with a menu inspired by seasonal produce and local ingredients.

12. What is the dress code at Mikla?

Mikla is an elegant fine dining restaurant, so it’s best to dress up for the occasion. Business casual attire is appropriate, with men often wearing jackets and women wearing dresses or dressy separates.

13. Is Hafız Mustafa open late?

Yes! Hafız Mustafa is open late into the night, making it the perfect spot for a post-dinner dessert or midnight snack. The sweet shop has been in business since 1864 and has maintained its reputation for delicious Turkish sweets.

Conclusion:

Istanbul is a food lover’s paradise, with countless restaurants serving up traditional Turkish cuisine and international dishes with unique twists. From fine dining to street food, there’s something for every palate and budget. We hope this guide to the best restaurants in Istanbul helps you plan an unforgettable culinary journey in this vibrant city.

Don’t hesitate to make reservations ahead of time, as many of these restaurants are popular among locals and tourists alike. And be sure to save room for dessert at Hafız Mustafa, a beloved Turkish sweet shop that has been in business since 1864.

Happy dining!

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We are not responsible for any changes or closures that may occur after publication. Please contact the restaurants directly for the most up-to-date information and to make reservations.