Our 25 Best Restaurants in Istanbul Experience + Tips

Istanbul is a city unlike any other, and its food culture reflects that. The mix of cultures in this vibrant and lively city creates the perfect fusion for the culinary world. If you’re looking for a great meal while you’re in town, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul. From Turkish cuisine to international favorites, here are some of our best restaurants in Istanbul and favorites in this international city!

25 Best Restaurants in Istanbul to Try

Turk Fatih Tutak – Şişli, Bomonti

📍 Address: Cumhuriyet Hacıahmet Silahşör Cad, Yeniyol Sk. No:2, Şişli

Under the guidance of Chef Fatih Tutak, Turk Fatih Tutak redefines modern Turkish cuisine. The menu pays homage to traditional Turkish ingredients while presenting them in an artistic and innovative way.

Each dish, whether it’s smoked meats, Turkish dumplings (manti), or delicate seafood, tells a story of culinary heritage and creativity. The open kitchen concept lets diners watch the chef’s artistry unfold, making it a truly immersive experience.

✔ Michelin-quality modern Turkish cuisine.
✔ Innovative dishes that highlight local flavors.
✔ A fine-dining experience that feels like an art performance.

Sunset Grill & Bar – Ulus, Beşiktaş

📍 Address: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi, Yol Sokağı No:2, Ulus, Istanbul

Perched atop Ulus Park, Sunset Grill & Bar is an elegant fine-dining destination that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

The upscale atmosphere, combined with an eclectic menu blending Mediterranean and Asian flavors, makes it a top spot for refined dining in Istanbul. The sushi bar, led by expert chefs, delivers a selection of fresh sashimi and specialty rolls that pair beautifully with their extensive wine list. The romantic setting and impeccable service made our evening unforgettable, with the sushi platter and Wagyu beef standing out as favorites.

✔ Stunning Bosphorus views from Ulus Park.
✔ A fusion of Mediterranean, Asian, and international flavors.
✔ Perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious dinner.

Topaz Restaurant – Gümüşsuyu, Taksim

📍 Address: Ömer Avni Mahallesi, İnönü Caddesi, No:50, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Perched above Taksim, Topaz Restaurant offers a sophisticated blend of Mediterranean and Ottoman flavors.

The Bosphorus and Dolmabahçe Palace views make it an ideal choice for a romantic evening. The menu showcases refined dishes, including butter-soft grilled octopus with sweet potato puree and sea bass fillet with Turkish spices. The ambiance is elegant yet cozy, with soft lighting and a carefully curated wine and cocktail list.

✔ Perfect for fine dining with incredible Bosphorus views.
✔ Mediterranean and Ottoman-inspired dishes with a modern twist.
✔ Sophisticated ambiance for a romantic evening.

Tuğra Restaurant – Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Beşiktaş

📍 Address: Çırağan Caddesi No:32, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Located inside the historic Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Tuğra Restaurant offers an authentic Ottoman fine dining experience.

The opulent decor, candlelit ambiance, and riverside terrace overlooking the Bosphorus transport you to an era of Ottoman royalty. Signature dishes like Testi Kebabı (lamb slow-cooked in a clay pot) and Hünkar Beğendi (braised lamb with smoky eggplant purée) bring the rich flavors of Ottoman history to life. The exceptional service and live classical Turkish music elevate the experience.

✔ Authentic Ottoman palace dining experience.
✔ Elegant atmosphere with Bosphorus views.
✔ Rich, traditional flavors crafted with historical recipes.

Aheste Restaurant – Asmalımescit, Beyoğlu

📍 Address: Asmalı Mescit Mahallesi, Meşrutiyet Caddesi No:107/F, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Aheste Restaurant is a hidden gem in the heart of Pera, offering a fresh take on traditional Turkish mezze.

The menu features creative small plates, such as grilled lamb heart and seasonal mezes, prepared with an imaginative twist. The intimate setting and candlelit tables create a cozy, romantic ambiance, making it ideal for a relaxed yet refined dining experience.

✔ A contemporary twist on Turkish mezze and small plates.
✔ Cozy and charming atmosphere, perfect for date nights.
✔ Unique and flavorful menu offerings.

Alaf Restaurant – Arnavutköy, Beşiktaş

📍 Address: Arnavutköy, Kuruçeşme Caddesi No:19, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Alaf Restaurant is a modern take on Anatolian cuisine, blending traditional techniques with innovative flavors.

Using a wood-fired oven, the restaurant creates smoky, deeply flavorful dishes, including grilled lamb, slow-cooked stews, and house-made stuffed vine leaves. The rooftop cocktail bar is an added bonus, making it a great spot for both dinner and drinks with a view.

✔ An artistic and modern interpretation of Anatolian flavors.
✔ Wood-fired dishes with bold, smoky flavors.
✔ Rooftop cocktail bar with stunning views.

Tershane Restaurant – Karaköy, Beyoğlu

📍 Address: Azapkapı, Tersane Caddesi No:24, Beyoğlu, Hotel Momento 8th Floor

Located on the eighth floor of Hotel Momento, Tershane Restaurant offers a traditional yet contemporary Turkish dining experience.

The menu features mezze platters, juicy kebabs, and perfectly grilled lamb, all made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The open kitchen concept and stunning views of the Golden Horn create a memorable atmosphere for food lovers.

✔ A perfect blend of classic Turkish cuisine with a modern twist.
✔ Panoramic Golden Horn views.
✔ Engaging open-kitchen experience.

360 Istanbul Taksim

📍 Address: Tomtom Mah. İstiklal Cad. No:163 K: 8, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Located on the top floor of a historical Egyptian Apartment, 360 Istanbul is one of the city’s most iconic rooftop restaurants and bars. The modern Turkish menu with international influences pairs well with stunning Bosphorus views.

As the night progresses, the venue transforms into a lively club, hosting world-class DJs, live performances, and entertainment. A great spot for a stylish night out in Istanbul!

✔ Panoramic 360-degree views of Istanbul.
✔ Award-winning fusion cuisine with fresh ingredients.
✔ Live music and DJ performances for an exciting nightlife experience.

Neolokal

📍 Address: Arapcamii Mah, Bankalar Cd. No:11, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Neolokal is a sustainability-focused fine-dining restaurant, blending traditional Anatolian flavors with modern techniques.

Chef Maksut Aşkar takes pride in preserving Turkey’s culinary heritage, serving dishes made with farm-fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a stunning backdrop of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn, making for a visually and gastronomically rewarding dining experience.

✔ Michelin-recommended restaurant focusing on sustainability.
✔ A creative reinterpretation of traditional Turkish dishes.
✔ Gorgeous views over the Bosphorus and Old Istanbul.

Mikla Galata

📍 Address: Asmalı Mescit, The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:15, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Mikla is one of the top fine-dining restaurants in Istanbul, known for its Turkish-Scandinavian fusion cuisine.

Earning a Michelin Star, Chef Mehmet Gürs creates a daily-changing menu that highlights high-quality Anatolian ingredients with a modern twist. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Bosphorus, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

✔ A Michelin-starred fine-dining experience with a unique fusion menu.
✔ Panoramic rooftop views of historic Istanbul.
✔ A refined yet innovative menu, focusing on local flavors.

AQUA Restaurant – Besiktas

📍 Address: Yıldız, Çırağan Caddesi No:28, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Located inside the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel at the Bosphorus, AQUA Restaurant offers exceptional seafood dining with breathtaking waterfront views. The serene and romantic ambiance makes it a perfect choice for a special night out.

The menu highlights fresh seafood options, from sushi platters to grilled Mediterranean dishes, all prepared with top-quality ingredients. The grilled sea bass with saffron risotto and tuna tartare with avocado were standouts, and the extensive wine list perfectly complemented our meal.

✔ Luxury fine-dining with Bosphorus views.
✔ Exceptional seafood, including sushi and Mediterranean flavors.
✔ Perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Azur Restaurant – Yeniköy, Sariyer

📍 Address: Yeniköy Mahallesi, Köybaşı Caddesi No:71, Sarıyer, Istanbul

Azur Restaurant in Yeniköy is a stunning fine-dining destination offering Turkish, Mediterranean, and South American-inspired seafood dishes. The elegant setting and spectacular Bosphorus views make it one of the most sought-after seafood restaurants in Istanbul.

We loved the fresh ceviche, which had the perfect balance of citrus and spice, and the grilled fish was perfectly cooked with a Mediterranean twist. The chic and modern ambiance makes it a great choice for special occasions and refined dining.

✔ A creative mix of Turkish, Mediterranean, and South American seafood dishes.
✔ Elegant décor with a scenic Bosphorus backdrop.
✔ An excellent choice for a sophisticated seafood experience.

Feriye Restaurant – Besiktas

📍 Address: Yıldız Mahallesi Çırağan Caddesi No:44, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Housed within the historic Feriye Palace, this restaurant blends Istanbul’s rich history with modern Mediterranean flavors.

The seafront location provides an unmatched view of the Bosphorus, particularly at sunset when Ortaköy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge light up. The menu features grilled sea bream, seafood risotto, and Aegean-style octopus, each dish bursting with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dining at Feriye is truly a luxurious and memorable experience.

✔ A historical dining experience with breathtaking waterfront views.
✔ High-end Mediterranean cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
✔ Perfect for an elegant evening in Istanbul.

Nicole Restaurant

📍 Address: Tomtom, Tomtom Kaptan Sk. No:18, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Nicole Restaurant offers an intimate fine-dining experience with an award-winning contemporary Turkish menu. Recently earning a Michelin Star, this elegant spot features floor-to-ceiling windows, giving guests stunning panoramic views of the Old Town, the Princes’ Islands, and beyond.

The innovative menu blends classic Turkish flavors with modern techniques, making it one of the most sought-after restaurants in Istanbul. The extensive wine list complements the dishes perfectly, making every visit unforgettable.

✔ A Michelin-starred restaurant with sophisticated Turkish cuisine.
✔ Breathtaking views over Istanbul’s Old Town and Bosphorus.
✔ Seasonal tasting menus featuring the finest local ingredients.

Mürver Restaurant – Karaköy

📍 Address: Kemankeş Caddesi No:57-59, Karaköy, Istanbul

Mürver is one of the most exciting restaurants in Istanbul, featuring wood-fired cuisine with panoramic Bosphorus views.

The open kitchen concept allows guests to watch chefs prepare grilled octopus, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, and charred eggplant puree over an open flame. The cocktail bar adds to the lively atmosphere, making Mürver perfect for both casual and special dining experiences. The bold, smoky flavors make every dish a delight, and the service was impeccable.

✔ Unique wood-fired flavors and open kitchen experience.
✔ Stunning Bosphorus views from Karaköy.
✔ Perfect for those looking for a modern yet authentic taste of Turkish cuisine.

Nobu Istanbul – Sisli

📍 Address: Süzer Plaza, Askerocağı Caddesi No:6, Elmadağ/Şişli, Istanbul

Located inside The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul, Nobu offers a world-class Japanese dining experience. The refined setting, elegant ambiance, and exceptional service make it one of the top places in Istanbul for sushi lovers.

The menu features signature dishes like Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeño, and beautifully crafted sushi rolls. The Omakase menu was a standout, offering a perfectly curated selection of flavors and textures. Nobu is a must-visit for lovers of fine Japanese cuisine.

✔ A world-class Japanese dining experience with Peruvian influences.
✔ Michelin-quality sushi and signature Nobu dishes.
✔ Refined ambiance perfect for a luxurious night out.

Octo Restaurant – Karaköy, Beyoğlu

📍 Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Kemankeş Caddesi Veli Alemdar Han No:49, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Perched on the ninth floor of the JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus, Octo serves modern Mediterranean cuisine with a Portuguese twist. The stunning views over the Golden Horn and Bosphorus make it a prime spot for sophisticated dining.

The charred octopus with citrus glaze and the pan-seared sea bass were highlights, expertly prepared and full of flavor. Octo’s lively yet elegant ambiance makes it a perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic night out.

✔ Refined Mediterranean flavors with a Portuguese influence.
✔ Breathtaking rooftop views of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus.
✔ Stylish setting with an impressive seafood selection.

Park Fora Restaurant – Kuruçeşme, Besiktas

📍 Address: Muallim Naci Caddesi No:54/A, Cemil Topuzlu Parkı, Kuruçeşme, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Park Fora is one of the most renowned seafood restaurants in Istanbul, offering fresh, high-quality seafood in an elegant waterfront setting. For decades, it has been a favorite for romantic dinners, business meetings, and special celebrations.

The seasonal fish, shellfish, and mezes were expertly prepared, with standout dishes including fish carpaccio, grilled seabass, and lobster thermidor. The expansive wine selection and impeccable service added to the fine-dining experience.

✔ One of Istanbul’s most famous seafood restaurants with Bosphorus views.
✔ Exceptional quality seafood and an extensive wine list.
✔ Perfect for a luxury dining experience on the waterfront.

Karaköy Lokantası – Karaköy, Beyoğlu

📍 Address: Kemankeş Mahallesi, Kemankeş Caddesi No:57, Karaköy/Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Nestled in the heart of Karaköy, Karaköy Lokantası is a true icon of traditional Turkish dining, blending authentic flavors with a stylish, modern setting. The blue-tiled walls and elegant decor create an inviting yet sophisticated ambiance, perfect for both casual lunches and special dinners.

The menu is a feast of Turkish classics, featuring over 80 varieties of mezze, including creamy hummus, smoky eggplant salad, and stuffed vine leaves. The lamb börek, with its crispy golden pastry and spiced tender lamb filling, is a standout dish. The grilled meat and seafood platters make it a fantastic choice for sharing with friends or family.

✔ Authentic Turkish cuisine with a refined touch.
✔ Beautiful interior with iconic blue-tiled decor.
✔ Diverse mezze selection and delicious lamb börek.

Tütsü By Düvee Besiktas

📍 Address: Dikilitaş, BJK Fulya Süleyman Seba Kompleksi, Hakkı Yeten Cd. No:10B, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

For meat lovers, Tütsü By Düvee is a must-visit spot in Istanbul. Specializing in smoked meats and farm-to-table barbecue, this restaurant raises its own cattle, ensuring the highest quality beef and dairy products.

The meats are smoked using oak wood for 9-14 hours, creating deep, rich flavors without any marination. With a casual yet stylish atmosphere and a great selection of whiskey and craft beer, it’s a top spot for barbecue lovers.

✔ One of the best barbecue restaurants in Istanbul.
✔ Farm-to-table smoked meats with deep flavors.
✔ Relaxed atmosphere with great rock and blues music.

Sultanahmet Koftecisi

📍 Address: Alemdar Mahallesi, Divan Yolu Caddesi, No:12, Fatih, Istanbul

A legendary spot for traditional Turkish meatballs, Sultanahmet Köftecisi has been serving its famous grilled köfte (meatballs) for over 100 years.

The simple yet delicious recipe has been passed down through four generations, making it one of Istanbul’s most famous eateries. If you want to experience authentic Turkish comfort food, this is the place to go.

✔ A historic restaurant with a 100-year-old köfte recipe.
✔ Juicy, perfectly grilled meatballs made with natural ingredients.
✔ A must-visit spot near Istanbul’s top landmarks.

Mahkeme Lokantasi Galata

• Azapkapı, Perşembe Pazarı Cd. No:14, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Mahkeme in Turkish means “Court” and Mahkeme Lokantasi Galata is located in Galata Court Street, right across the historical Genoese Court, from which its name was inspired. Situated in an old Inn that was built in the 1840’s, you can see marble stairs in the building which are worn with the 180-year history.

Slightly off the beaten path of the main Karakoy street, during the day, the restaurant offers lunch and small dishes to local shopkeepers, but in the evening the atmosphere changes and it becomes a lively tavern with outstanding appetizers and meals prepared by master Chefs. Enjoy your meal in the outdoor seating area, or host a business dinner or gathering in one of the historical private rooms. With its rich menu of local Turkish cuisine, this historic restaurant offers a unique dining experience for guests from around the world!

Matbah Restaurant Sultanahmet

📍 Address: Cankurtaran, Caferiye Sk. No:6 D:1, Fatih, Istanbul

Matbah offers a truly royal dining experience, serving dishes that were once prepared in the Ottoman palace kitchens.

Set inside a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the restaurant provides an elegant atmosphere, with a gorgeous terrace overlooking the Hagia Sophia. Expect rich flavors, historical recipes, and impeccable service in one of the most prestigious restaurants in Sultanahmet.

✔ Experience authentic Ottoman palace cuisine.
✔ A Michelin-recommended restaurant with an elegant setting.
✔ Beautiful views over Sultanahmet’s historical sites.

Oligark Restaurant

📍 Address: Kuruçeşme, Muallim Naci Cd. No:58, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Oligark is one of Istanbul’s trendiest fine-dining spots, combining a luxury restaurant, lounge, and nightclub all in one venue.

Whether you’re enjoying a gourmet dinner with Bosphorus views or dancing the night away at the club, this venue is perfect for those looking for a high-end experience.

✔ A high-energy fine-dining and nightlife experience.
✔ Great cocktails and a stylish crowd.
✔ Perfect for a glamorous night out in Istanbul.

Ruby Ortakoy

📍 Address: Yıldız, Ortaköy Salhanesi Sk. No:5, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

With a prime location right by the Bosphorus, Ruby is a top-tier restaurant and nightclub offering spectacular waterfront views.

The menu features a mix of Turkish and international dishes, while the cocktail selection is crafted to perfection. After dinner, the venue transforms into a vibrant nightclub, making it one of the hottest spots in Istanbul for nightlife.

✔ An upscale restaurant and club with breathtaking Bosphorus views.
✔ Great food, signature cocktails, and lively atmosphere.
✔ Perfect for a luxurious night out in Ortaköy.