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May 2, 20237 min read

Dining in Istanbul, Turkiye

Updated: May 5, 2023

Location: Istanbul, Turkye

Great for: Couples, Families, Groups, Pre and Post Cruise


tables overlooking the river in Istanbul.
Outside Dining in Istanbul

Istanbul is a foodie destination for sure. The city is known for its rich culinary culture and diverse cuisine, which is influenced by its history and location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

One of Istanbul's most famous dishes is the kebab, which can be found in many varieties including döner, şiş, and Adana kebab. Other popular dishes include meze, a selection of small dishes similar to tapas, and seafood dishes like grilled fish and shrimp.

Istanbul is also known for its street food, such as simit (a type of sesame-coated bread), roasted chestnuts, and corn on the cob. Turkish sweets like baklava, lokum (Turkish delight), and künefe (a cheese pastry soaked in syrup) are also popular.

The list has been compiled through researching top-rated reviews and not my personal experience at each restaurant. As always, it is best to make reservations in advance when possible and required. I've only listed a few in each category so I would love to hear from you, my readers, on your favorites!




Coffee Service with 3 cups of coffee
Coffee Service

Romantic Restaurants

If you are looking for a romantic dinner here are a few to choose. Ulus 29 and Mikla also made the list with the best views!


Sunset Grill & Bar

Located on the top floor of a high-rise building, Sunset Grill & Bar offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline. The restaurant features a sophisticated atmosphere with live music, candlelight, and a menu of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Prices start at around 400 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Kuruçeşme Mh., Muallim Naci Cd. No:54, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 287 0357


Mikla

Mikla is another rooftop restaurant that boasts breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul. The restaurant features an innovative menu of Turkish and Scandinavian fusion cuisine, and the ambiance is refined and intimate. Prices start at around 500 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Meşrutiyet Cd. 15th Floor, The Marmara Pera, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 293 5656


Mavi Balık

Mavi Balık is located on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait and offers beautiful waterfront views. The restaurant specializes in seafood and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and the atmosphere is relaxed and cozy. Prices start at around 200 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Arnavutköy Mahallesi, Bebeköy Sk. No:26, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 263 2995


Ulus 29

Ulus 29 is a chic and stylish restaurant located in a historic building in the upscale Ulus neighborhood. The restaurant features a fusion menu of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine and an extensive wine list. The ambiance is sophisticated and refined, with a beautiful garden and a terrace overlooking the city. Prices start at around 300 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Adnan Saygun Cd. Ulus Parkı İçi No:71, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 358 2929


Asitane Restaurant

Asitane Restaurant is located in the historic neighborhood of Edirnekapi and specializes in Ottoman cuisine. The restaurant features a cozy and intimate atmosphere with traditional Ottoman decor and a beautiful garden. Prices start at around 200 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Kariye Camii Sokak No:6, Edirnekapı, 34240 Fatih/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 635 7997



View of the Bosphorus
View of the Bosphorus


5 Restaurants with the Best View


360 Istanbul

Located on the top floor of a building in the trendy Beyoglu neighborhood, 360 Istanbul offers panoramic views of the city, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The restaurant features a modern Turkish menu with live music and a chic atmosphere. Prices start at around 300 TL per person for dinner.

Address: İstiklal Cd. Mısır Apt. No:163 K:8, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 251 1042


Ulus 29

Ulus 29 is a stylish restaurant located in a historic building in the upscale Ulus neighborhood. The restaurant features a beautiful garden and a terrace with panoramic views of the city. The menu features a fusion of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Prices start at around 300 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Adnan Saygun Cd. Ulus Parkı İçi No:71, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 358 2929


Mikla

Mikla is a rooftop restaurant located in the heart of Istanbul, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait. The restaurant features an innovative menu of Turkish and Scandinavian fusion cuisine and a sophisticated atmosphere. Prices start at around 500 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Meşrutiyet Cd. 15th Floor, The Marmara Pera, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 293 5656


Vogue Restaurant & Bar

Vogue Restaurant & Bar is located in the fashionable Nisantasi neighborhood and features stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline. The menu features a fusion of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine, and the atmosphere is stylish and chic. Prices start at around 250 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Teşvikiye, Abdi İpekçi Cd. No:31, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 261 0283


Hamdi Restaurant

Hamdi Restaurant is located in the historic district of Eminonu and offers stunning views of the Golden Horn and the Galata Tower. The menu features traditional Turkish cuisine, including kebabs, meze, and grilled meats. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with a lively ambiance. Prices start at around 100 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Tahmis Cd. Kalçın Sk. No:11, 34120 Eminönü/Fatih/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 528 0390




1 Unique Restaurant


LOKMA

LOKMA is a restaurant that offers a contemporary take on traditional Turkish street food. The restaurant is located in a former power station in the trendy Karaköy neighborhood and has a chic and industrial-chic vibe. The highlight of the restaurant is the LOKMA machine, which dispenses freshly made Turkish doughnuts that you can top with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. Prices start at around 30 TL for a serving of LOKMA.

Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Mumhane Cd. No:52/A, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 293 3688





4 Restaurants for a Traditional Meal

Istanbul is known for its rich culinary heritage, and there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Turkish meals. Here are a few to try.


Ciya Sofrası

Ciya Sofrası is a restaurant that specializes in traditional Turkish and Anatolian cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Kadıköy neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul and is known for its authentic and flavorful dishes. The menu changes daily, and the dishes are made using seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Prices start at around 50 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Caferağa Mahallesi, Güneşlibahçe Sk. No:43, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul

Phone: +90 216 330 3190


Asitane Restaurant

Asitane Restaurant is a restaurant that serves Ottoman cuisine, with dishes dating back to the 15th century. The restaurant is located in the historic district of Edirnekapi and is known for its unique and flavorful dishes. Prices start at around 100 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Kariye Camii Sokak No:6, Edirnekapi, Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 635 7997


Karaköy Lokantası

Karaköy Lokantası is a restaurant that offers traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant is located in the trendy Karaköy neighborhood and has a chic and contemporary ambiance. The menu features a mix of mezze plates, seafood, and meat dishes. Prices start at around 80 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Kılıçali Paşa Mahallesi, Mumhane Cd. No:70, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 292 4455


Hacı Dayı

Hacı Dayı is a restaurant that specializes in kebabs and other grilled meat dishes. The restaurant has been in business since 1978 and is known for its delicious and authentic flavors. Prices start at around 60 TL per person for dinner.

Address: Sinanpaşa, Zeyrek Cd. No:6, 34083 Fatih/İstanbul

Phone: +90 212 523 3936




5 Budget-Friendly Restaurants

These restaurants tend toward street food so make sure you know where you are going or ask at the hotel to be sure you are comfortable with the area and the food.


Köfteci Hüseyin

Köfteci Hüseyin is a restaurant that specializes in köfte, a Turkish meatball made with beef or lamb. The restaurant has several locations throughout Istanbul and is known for its delicious and affordable köfte. Prices start at around 20 TL for a köfte sandwich.

Address: Various locations in Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 261 0596


Durumzade

Durumzade is a street food stand that serves dürüm, a Turkish wrap filled with meat, vegetables, and sauces. The stand is located in the busy Taksim Square area and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Prices start at around 15 TL per dürüm.

Address: Kalyoncu Kulluk Caddesi, No: 30, 34433 Taksim, Istanbul

Phone: +90 532 322 6364


Şampiyon Kokoreç

Şampiyon Kokoreç is a fast-food restaurant that serves kokoreç, a traditional Turkish dish made with seasoned lamb intestines. The restaurant has several locations throughout Istanbul and is known for its delicious and affordable kokoreç. Prices start at around 15 TL per serving.

Address: Various locations in Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 231 2921


Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi is a restaurant that specializes in köfte, a Turkish meatball made with beef or lamb. The restaurant has been in business since 1920 and is a favorite among locals and tourists. Prices start at around 25 TL per köfte sandwich.

Address: Divanyolu Caddesi No: 12, Sultanahmet, Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 522 6652


Güvenç Konyalı

: Güvenç Konyalı is a restaurant that serves traditional Turkish dishes, including kebabs and stews. The restaurant has several locations throughout Istanbul and is known for its delicious and affordable food. Prices start at around 30 TL per dish.

Address: Various locations in Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 620 3423


There you have it! A variety of restaurants to try the next time you are in Istanbul.



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