Istanbul’s restaurant scene is thriving and choosing the best restaurants in Istanbul is a lot harder than it used to be.
Growing interest in the restaurant scene here has been sparked by a recent influx of celebrity chefs such as Jamie Oliver as well as the arrival of restaurant brands such as Cipriani and Zuma.
It’s not just global brands. A number of homegrown restaurants have prospered. With such a potent mix of celebrity chefs, global names and homegrown brands, it’s no easy matter choosing where to dine in Istanbul.
Here, we’ve carefully compiled a selection of 15 restaurants in Istanbul offering a sumptuous variety of worldly cuisine from traditional Turkish to modern Japanese. Each restaurant featured is a destination not only for exemplary eats, but also for stunning décor and unforgettable experiences.
Mikla
Mikla is an urban, sleek and stylish restaurant located on the rooftop floor of the fashionable “The Marmara Pera” hotel
read moreZuma Istanbul
Zuma offers something completely new – a sophisticated twist on the traditional japanese izakaya style of informal eating and drinking.
read moreNusr-Et Steakhouse
Nusr-Et Steakhouse is one of the best steakhouses in Istanbul, Nusr-Et is a Meatlover’s paradise, with a wide selection of delicious meat, such as Lamb T-bone, T-Bone Steak, Lamb Chops, two kinds of meatballs and more. Nusr-Et Steakhouse was established in 2010 by Nusret Gökçe and Mithat Erdem. Since then they have been the ambassadors of steak culture in İstanbul. Nusr-Et Steakhouse became the leading steakhouse by serving delicious meats in a homelike atmosphere. The meats here have specific names, exclusive to Nusr-et such as ‘lokum’...
read moreP.F. Chang’s Istanbul
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Inc. is a U.S. based restaurant company that features a blend of high-quality, Chinese-inspired cuisine and American hospitality in a sophisticated, contemporary bistro setting. Pei Wei Asian Diner offers a modest menu of freshly prepared pan-Asian cuisine in a relaxed, warm environment offering attentive counter service and take-out flexibility. In addition to its delicious dishes, unique desserts and big portions, P.F. Chang’s also feature a broad beverage menu including wine, special cocktails, sake, beer, and...
read moreMia Mensa
Mia Mensa is one of the most popular and classical Italian restaurants in Istanbul, right by the Bosphorus
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Park Samdan Istanbul
Park Şamdan is a Nişantaşı classic and has been operating in Istanbul’s Nişantaşı neighborhood since 1982
read moreKosebasi Istanbul
Köşebaşı was founded in 1995 as the first upscale Turkish restaurant, serving the authentic tastes of eastern Mediterranean cuisine to its guests.
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Gaja Restaurant / Roof
Fine dining Gaja restaurant offers sophisticated contemporary continental cuisine with superb views over the Bosphorus and an extensive wine list with over 160 local and International labels.
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