Discover the Best Restaurants in Istanbul Offering Stunning Sea Views

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Istanbul is famous for its diverse cultural heritage, rich history, and breathtaking natural scenery. The city is also known for its vibrant culinary scene, which offers a fusion of traditional Turkish flavors and modern international cuisine. When it comes to dining, nothing beats the experience of enjoying a delicious meal with stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait. In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants in Istanbul with sea views that are sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you in awe of the city’s beauty. Let’s dive in!

Experience the Best Sunset Views at 360 Istanbul

🌅

If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset, 360 Istanbul is the place to be. Perched on the top floor of a 19th-century apartment building, this rooftop restaurant offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the city’s skyline. The menu features a range of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, including meze platters, seafood, and grilled meats. Make sure to reserve a table in advance to secure the best view!

Indulge in Seafood Delights at Balikci Sabahattin

🦞

Located in the historic neighborhood of Kumkapi, Balikci Sabahattin is a seafood restaurant that dates back to the Ottoman era. The restaurant’s interior is decorated with traditional Turkish ornaments, and the menu features a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, sea bass, and shrimp casserole. The outdoor terrace overlooks the Sea of Marmara, offering a serene atmosphere to enjoy your meal.

Taste the Best of Turkish Cuisine at Mikla

🍴

Mikla is a fine-dining restaurant that combines traditional Turkish flavors with modern cooking techniques. The restaurant is located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera hotel and offers a stunning view of the Bosphorus and the Old City. The menu features a range of creative dishes, including lamb shank with bulgur, roasted quail with apricot, and smoked eggplant with yogurt. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring local and international wines.

Enjoy a Luxurious Dining Experience at Ulus 29

🍾

Ulus 29 is a stylish restaurant located in the upscale neighborhood of Ulus. The restaurant’s interior is decorated with contemporary art pieces, and the terrace offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of Istanbul. The menu features a range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including grilled sea bass, lamb chops, and roasted eggplant with feta cheese. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area where you can enjoy cocktails and live music.

Get a Taste of History at Maiden’s Tower

🏰

Maiden’s Tower is a historic tower located on a tiny islet in the middle of the Bosphorus. The tower has been used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a lighthouse, a customs station, and a quarantine station. Today, the tower serves as a restaurant, offering a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Bosphorus. The menu features a range of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, including grilled seafood, meze platters, and traditional Turkish desserts.

Experience the Authentic Flavors of Istanbul at Asitane

🌶️

Asitane is a restaurant that specializes in Ottoman and Turkish cuisine, serving recipes that date back to the 15th century. The restaurant is located in the historic neighborhood of Edirnekapi and has a beautiful garden with views of the Golden Horn. The menu features a range of dishes, including lamb stew with quince, eggplant with yogurt sauce, and almond pudding with rose water. The restaurant also has a museum showcasing Ottoman artifacts and antiques.

Treat Yourself to a Mediterranean Feast at Feriye Lokantasi

🍤

Feriye Lokantasi is a restaurant located in the historic neighborhood of Ortakoy. The restaurant is housed in a 19th-century mansion that has been renovated to preserve its original architectural features. The outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Ortakoy mosque. The menu features a range of Mediterranean dishes, including grilled octopus, shrimp casserole, and lamb chops. The restaurant also has a dessert menu featuring traditional Turkish sweets.

Relax in the Serene Atmosphere of Balikci Tekkesi

🌊

Balikci Tekkesi is a seafood restaurant located on the Asian side of Istanbul, near the Bosphorus Bridge. The restaurant has a charming garden with views of the Bosphorus and offers a serene atmosphere to enjoy your meal. The menu features a range of seafood dishes, including grilled sea bass, shrimp casserole, and calamari. The restaurant also has a selection of Turkish and international wines.

Experience the Magic of the Bosphorus at Sunset Grill and Bar

🌉

Sunset Grill and Bar is a luxurious restaurant located on the waterfront in the neighborhood of Ulus. The restaurant offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Bosphorus Bridge, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The menu features a range of seafood and meat dishes, including lobster, wagyu beef, and lamb chops. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring local and international wines.

Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds at Kirmizi

🍝

Kirmizi is a restaurant located in the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy that offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Galata Tower. The restaurant’s menu features a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors, including sushi rolls, dim sum, and pasta dishes. The outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the Bosphorus.

Taste the Flavors of the Sea at Suada Club

🍹

Suada Club is a private island located in the middle of the Bosphorus that offers a range of dining and entertainment options. The island has several restaurants, including a seafood restaurant that offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the city’s skyline. The menu features a range of seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, sea bass, and shrimp casserole. The island also has a bar and lounge area where you can enjoy cocktails and live music.

Experience the Best of Turkish Hospitality at Hacı Abdullah Lokantası

🌶️

Hacı Abdullah Lokantası is a traditional Turkish restaurant that has been serving authentic Turkish cuisine since 1888. The restaurant is located in the historic neighborhood of Sirkeci and has a rustic interior with traditional Turkish decor. The menu features a range of Turkish dishes, including lamb stew, meatballs, and stuffed eggplant. The restaurant is also known for its selection of meze platters and desserts.

Enjoy a Memorable Meal at Paper Moon

🍷

Paper Moon is a restaurant located in the trendy neighborhood of Bebek that offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the city’s skyline. The restaurant’s menu features a fusion of Italian and Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on fresh seafood and pasta dishes. The outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the Bosphorus.

Experience Turkish Hospitality at Its Finest at Giritli Restaurant

🍤

Giritli Restaurant is a seafood restaurant located in the historic neighborhood of Cihangir. The restaurant is decorated with traditional Turkish ornaments and has a cozy atmosphere. The menu features a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, shrimp casserole, and sea bass. The restaurant also has a selection of Turkish and international wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Istanbul for dining with a sea view?

The best time to visit Istanbul for dining with a sea view is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny, and the restaurants’ outdoor terraces offer stunning views of the Bosphorus and the city’s skyline. However, keep in mind that these months are also peak tourist season, so make sure to make reservations in advance.

What types of cuisine can I expect at Istanbul’s seafood restaurants?

Istanbul’s seafood restaurants offer a range of cuisines, including traditional Turkish, Mediterranean, and international. The menus often feature grilled and baked seafood dishes, meze platters, and seafood casseroles. Some restaurants also offer fusion cuisine, combining different flavors and cooking techniques.

Are Istanbul’s seafood restaurants expensive?

Most seafood restaurants in Istanbul are considered to be on the pricier side, especially those that offer stunning sea views. However, there are also more affordable options available, such as local fish markets and smaller restaurants that specialize in seafood. It’s best to check the menu and prices before making a reservation.

What is the dress code at Istanbul’s fine-dining restaurants?

Most fine-dining restaurants in Istanbul have a smart-casual dress code. This means that men should wear collared shirts and dress pants, and women should wear dresses or pantsuits. Some restaurants may have stricter