Istanbul is a city with endless possibilities when it comes to breathtaking views, excellent food and drinks, and exciting things to do. One of the best ways to take in all that Istanbul has to offer is by dining and drinking at one of its many rooftop restaurants and bars in the heart of the city. From enjoying the incredible views of the Bosphorus Strait to watching the sun set over the Golden Horn, these places offer an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Here are some of our favorite and best rooftop restaurants and bars in Istanbul!
Best Rooftop Restaurants & Bars in Istanbul
Mesai Bar
- Azapkapı, Bankalar Cd. No:21, 34421 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Located on the terrace of a restored Italian Bank, Mesai Karaköy provides exceptional views and unique tastes to all guests. Blending Turkish cuisine with modern gastronomy, Mesai Karaköy, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner from the craftsmanship of award winning chefs from around the world.
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Using both wood fired and stone ovens, the menu features seafood, appetizers, and other international dishes in a fusion of cultures along the Bosphorus. With its wide bar and lively music at dinner, accompanied by the lights of Istanbul reflected from the Galata Bridge, guests are in for the true magical experience of Istanbul! This stunning space is just a 3 minute walk from the Galata Tower.
Balkon Galata
- Asmalı Mescit, Şehbender Sk. No:5, 34430 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Balkon has been offering a spectacular view of the Istanbul historical peninsula since 2004. With an excellent rooftop, Balkon Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to enjoy good music and meals on a cozy terrace. The menu is a mix of international cuisine, with shareable snacks, Italian Pizza, and cocktail favorites.
Enjoy the traditional Turkish breakfast, a casual lunch, or marvel at the stars and lights in the evening while listening to jazz and soul music. The unique entertainment offers something for everyone’s taste with swing, funk, 70s, 80s, soul, house, electro and funky house music available on various evenings. With a casual styled atmosphere, an open rooftop, and wood table seatings, this space is great for local or foreign visitors!
Barnathan Galata
- Şahkulu, Tımarcı Sk. No:1, 34421 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie is located in one of the most historical apartments of Istanbul, having been built over 130 years ago. Taking its name from the Barnathan family who lived in the building, the Cafe & Brasserie offers an exceptional view of the Galata tower year-round with heaters and blankets available in Winter and air conditioning in Summer.
Appealing to both local and foreign visitors, the menu is varied for a combination of tastes. Specialty dishes include the Chicken with Sweet Hot Sauce, Dallas Steak, and Cheese Curd Pizza for a true variety of international flavors. It also features the famous Turkish Traditional breakfast and is a frequently Instagramed space for local and international influencers. Steps away from Taksim and Galata Tower, Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie is a must-visit restaurant in Istanbul!
Divan Brasserie Beyoğlu
- Tomtom, İstiklal Cd. No:181, 34433 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Divan Brasserie Beyoğlu is located on Istiklal Street on the top floor of Koc Universities Anatolian Studies Department. With a breathtaking view, reassuring atmosphere, impeccable service, delicious food and signature cocktails Divan Brasserie Beyoğlu offers you the best examples of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines in the city.
With a unique view of the historic peninsula, the terrace has a relaxed feel and the restaurant offers exceptional service. Embracing the motto of “Divan Means Trust” dishes are prepared with the utmost care to detail, specially selected wines have been hand-picked, and crafted cocktails are made to order. Know that every time you go to Divan, you will be wholeheartedly welcomed and every visit will make you feel special. Be sure to reserve in advance for this highly sought-after restaurant in the heart of the city!
Firuze Meyhane
- Nejat Eczacıbaşı Binası Sadi Konuralp Caddesi No: 5, Şişhane, D:kat 6, 34433 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Located on the 6th floor of the historical Nejat Eczacıbaşı building in Şişhane, Firuze is a casual but stylish restaurant offering breathtaking views of the city! Featuring both cold mezzes and hot dishes on an ala carte or fixed menu, this exciting restaurant provides the best of Turkish and Mediterranean Cuisine. Overlooking the Bosphorus, Firuze brings together the atmosphere of historical Istanbul taverns with its food, timeless music, and sophisticated style.
A casual but stylish restaurant, Firuze offers an exceptional dining experience, but later in the evening it turns into a pleasant restaurant-bar with Turkish pop songs playing. Open seven days a week, Firuze can be enjoyed for special occasions, romantic evenings out, or just a fun gathering with friends.
Izaka Terrace Restaurant
- Gümüşsuyu, İnönü Cd. No:8, 34437 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Considered one of the Best Gastro Terrace of Istanbul, Izaka Terrace is located on the terrace floor of CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel. The name Izaka is actually an Ottoman word meaning the feeling of tasting and pleasure while eating. The menu features the most authentic flavors of Istanbul cuisine as well as distinguished versions of popular world flavors.
World famous Chef Murat Bozok presents you with fish and shared appetizers, flavorful meat and grilled lamb kebabs or uniquely crafted sushi options. With an intimate capacity of 150 guests, make your table reservation in advance for a memorable dining experience! This quality and stylish restaurant in Istanbul is ready to offer you one of the best tables between the sky and the sea!
16 ROOF
- Visnezade Mah. Acisu Sok. N. 19, 34357 Macka, Besiktas/Istanbul
Open seasonally May – October, 16ROOF is located on top of the Swissôtel The Bosphorus with some of the most magnificent views in the city! Designed as both a bar and restaurant, you can experience Istanbul nightlife in a relaxed and intimate setting.
Tour Booking Advice
Enjoy a delicious meal with unique flavors that the chef has created by fusing European and Asian cuisine. Believing that music enhances every experience, a mix of DJ performances and live music are featured on various evenings. Featuring some of the best shisha in town, 16ROOF is a great place to relax and meet with friends or loved ones for a completely magnificent night in the heart of this vibrant city!
