Istanbul, the city that bridges two continents, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, history, and, most delightfully, food. My recent journey through this magnificent city was a gastronomic adventure like no other.
I will share my experience of some incredible dining spots in Istanbul, each offering unique flavors and experiences. From traditional Turkish delights to modern culinary innovations, these destinations are sure to tantalize your taste buds and provide a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s rich culinary heritage.
1. Sultanahmet Köftecisi: The Timeless Taste of Istanbul
Location: Divan Yolu Caddesi No:12, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern are all within walking distance.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by tram, just a short walk from Sultanahmet station.
Discounts: Look for lunch specials and combo meals which offer great value.
Prices: A meal here will typically cost around 60-100 TL per person, depending on your order.
Food Tasted: I tried the classic Sultanahmet köfte (meatballs), served with a side of piyaz (bean salad) and a refreshing glass of ayran (a traditional Turkish yogurt drink).
My Experience: Stepping into Sultanahmet Köftecisi feels like stepping back in time. The restaurant has been serving its famous meatballs since 1920, and the recipe has remained unchanged. The köfte was perfectly spiced, juicy, and tender, complemented by the tangy piyaz. The ayran was thick and creamy, providing a perfect balance to the rich flavors of the meatballs.
Recommendation: 9/10. This is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a historic setting.
Booking Platform: No reservations needed; however, it can get busy during peak hours.
2. Karaköy Güllüoğlu: Baklava Heaven
Location: Rıhtım Caddesi Katlı Otopark Altı No:3, Karaköy, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: Galata Tower, Istanbul Modern Art Museum, and the Bosphorus.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by tram, just a short walk from Karaköy station.
Discounts: Occasionally, there are seasonal promotions on gift boxes of baklava.
Prices: A piece of baklava costs around 15 TL, and you can get a mix box for about 100-150 TL.
Food Tasted: I indulged in a variety of baklava, including pistachio, walnut, and chocolate. I paired these with a traditional Turkish tea.
My Experience: Karaköy Güllüoğlu is an institution in Istanbul, known for its high-quality baklava. Each bite of the baklava was a symphony of crisp, flaky pastry and rich, sweet filling. The pistachio baklava was particularly outstanding, with its vibrant green nuts providing a wonderful contrast to the syrupy layers.
Recommendation: 10/10. This is the place for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Booking Platform: No reservations needed; it’s a walk-in bakery.
3. Pandeli Restaurant: Dining with a View
Location: Mısır Çarşısı Kat: 1 No: 1, Eminönü, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: The Spice Bazaar, Galata Bridge, and the New Mosque.
How to Get There: A short walk from Eminönü tram station.
Discounts: Check for lunch specials which can offer a more affordable way to sample their menu.
Prices: A meal here will typically cost around 100-150 TL per person.
Food Tasted: I had the hünkar beğendi (sultan’s delight), a rich and creamy eggplant puree topped with succulent lamb stew, along with a side of rice pilaf.
My Experience: Pandeli Restaurant, located above the Spice Bazaar, offers not only delicious food but also a historical ambiance with its beautiful tiled walls and stunning views over the Golden Horn. The hünkar beğendi was a luxurious dish, with the lamb tender and flavorful, and the eggplant puree silky smooth.
Recommendation: 8/10. Perfect for a more upscale dining experience with a touch of history.
Booking Platform: Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
4. Çiya Sofrası: A Journey Through Anatolian Flavors
Location: Güneşlibahçe Sokak No: 43, Kadıköy, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: Kadıköy Market, Moda Park, and the Bull Statue.
How to Get There: Take a ferry from the European side to Kadıköy, then it’s a short walk to the restaurant.
Discounts: None generally, but the prices are reasonable for the quality and variety of food.
Prices: A meal here will typically cost around 80-120 TL per person.
Food Tasted: I tried a selection of mezes (small dishes) including muhammara (walnut and red pepper dip), içli köfte (stuffed meatballs), and a main dish of kebab with pistachios.
My Experience: Çiya Sofrası is renowned for its diverse menu, showcasing the rich culinary traditions from various regions of Turkey. Each dish was a new discovery, with complex flavors and textures. The muhammara was spicy and nutty, the içli köfte crunchy on the outside and tender inside, and the kebab was juicy and packed with flavor.
Recommendation: 10/10. This is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the depth of Turkish cuisine.
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made via their website or by phone, but walk-ins are also welcome.
5. Nusr-Et Steakhouse: Where Flavor Meets Showmanship
Location: Nispetiye Caddesi No: 87, Etiler, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: Akmerkez Shopping Mall and Rumeli Fortress.
How to Get There: Accessible by taxi or a short walk from Nispetiye metro station.
Discounts: None generally, as it is a high-end dining experience.
Prices: A meal here will typically cost around 200-300 TL per person, depending on your order.
Food Tasted: I tried the famous Nusr-Et steak, lamb chops, and their signature baklava for dessert.
My Experience: Nusr-Et is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary spectacle. The steaks were cooked to perfection, with a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. The lamb chops were equally impressive. The meal ended on a high note with their theatrical presentation of baklava, which was crisp, sweet, and utterly delicious.
Recommendation: 9/10. Ideal for those looking for a high-end dining experience with a touch of entertainment.
Booking Platform: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online or by phone.
6. Asitane Restaurant: A Taste of Ottoman Splendor
Location: Kariye Camii Sokak No: 6, Edirnekapı, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: Chora Church (Kariye Museum), Theodosius Cistern, and the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque.
How to Get There: A short taxi ride from the city center or by bus to Edirnekapı.
Discounts: Occasionally offers seasonal tasting menus at a discount.
Prices: A meal here will typically cost around 150-200 TL per person.
Food Tasted: I enjoyed the mutancana (a lamb dish with dried fruits and almonds) and the almond pudding for dessert.
My Experience: Asitane Restaurant is renowned for its meticulous recreation of Ottoman-era recipes. The mutancana was a delightful blend of sweet and savory, with tender lamb and the rich flavors of dried fruits and almonds. The almond pudding was light and fragrant, providing a perfect end to the meal.
Recommendation: 10/10. Perfect for those interested in historical and gourmet dining.
Booking Platform: Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by phone.
7. Mikla: A Modern Twist on Turkish Cuisine
Location: The Marmara Pera Hotel, Meşrutiyet Caddesi No: 15, Beyoğlu, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, and the Pera Museum.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by metro, getting off at the Şişhane station, or by taxi.
Discounts: None generally, as it is a high-end dining experience.
Prices: A meal here typically costs around 250-400 TL per person, depending on your order and whether you opt for the tasting menu.
Food Tasted: I indulged in the tasting menu, which included dishes like lamb loin with smoked eggplant, sea bass with artichokes, and a dessert of Turkish coffee ice cream with mastic.
My Experience: Mikla offers an exceptional dining experience with stunning panoramic views of Istanbul. The tasting menu was a journey through modern Turkish cuisine, each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavors. The lamb loin was tender and perfectly paired with the smoky eggplant, while the sea bass was light and flavorful. The Turkish coffee ice cream provided a delightful finish with its unique and refreshing taste.
Recommendation: 10/10. Ideal for food enthusiasts looking for a modern take on traditional Turkish flavors in a sophisticated setting.
Booking Platform: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online via their official website or by phone.
8. Balıkçı Sabahattin: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Location: Cankurtaran Mahallesi, Seyit Hasan Kuyu Sokak No: 1, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Nearby Attractions: Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.
How to Get There: A short walk from the Sultanahmet tram station.
Discounts: Look for lunch specials or family meal deals.
Prices: A meal here typically costs around 100-200 TL per person, depending on the seafood selection.
Food Tasted: I enjoyed the grilled seabass, shrimp casserole, and a mezze platter with various dips and salads.
My Experience: Balıkçı Sabahattin is a renowned seafood restaurant located in a charming old house in Sultanahmet. The grilled seabass was fresh and perfectly cooked, with a hint of smoky flavor from the grill. The shrimp casserole was rich and creamy, and the mezze platter offered a variety of delightful flavors and textures. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal.
Recommendation: 9/10. Perfect for seafood lovers looking to enjoy fresh, expertly prepared dishes in a historic setting.
Booking Platform: Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, and can be made by phone.
Istanbul’s culinary landscape continues to impress with its diversity and depth. These additional restaurants offer unique dining experiences that reflect the city’s rich culinary traditions and modern innovations.
Whether you’re seeking high-end modern cuisine or fresh seafood in a historic setting, Istanbul has something to satisfy every palate.
