Best 21 Restaurants In Istanbul, Turkey Every Foodie Knows About

Istanbul, a city nestled in Turkey and lying in both Europe and Asia is a paradise for culinary lovers. This is a city that not only features world-class restaurants but also has a number of its International cafés and other eateries where travelers can have the best possible time enjoying. In fact, the restaurants in Istanbul are an absolute treat for visitors and serve some unique delicacies today.

Not only are these top-notch in terms of their services but are also light on the pocket.

So, if you're worried too much about finding good food on your trip to Istanbul, here are some of the top restaurants in the city that are worth trying out.

Best 21 Restaurants In Istanbul To Enrich Your Taste Buds

Istanbul isn't a city that can be explored in a single day as far as the culinary experience is concerned. So, here are some of the best places to eat in Istanbul today.

1. Ulus 29
2. Banyan
3. Dubb Indian Bosphorus Restaurant
4. St. Regis Brasserie
5. Râna Meyhane
6. Kroren Restaurant
7. Maiden’s Tower
8. Feriye Palace
9. Backyard Restaurant And Bar
10. 360 Istanbul Restaurant
11. Spago Restaurant
12. Nicole Restaurant
13. Calipso Fish Restaurant
14. Beyti Restaurant
15. Asmali Cavit
16. Mikla Restaurant
17. Neolokal
18. Arkestra
19. Inari Omakase
20. Yeni Lokanta
21. Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler

1. Ulus 29

One of the finest restaurants that opened in 1993, Ulus 29 has to be one of the best places to visit in the Middle East as far as the Turkish cuisine is concerned. One can not only experience tasting the best of Turkish flavors but can also savor international culinary favorites here. One can expect to find a sophisticated ambiance here while the restaurant even features a different menu that lists a wide sushi selection.

If there's one place that you really wish to explore on a holiday, well, it's this. Offering the best of fine dining experience to diners, Ulus 29 also has a wide collection of Reds/Whites that count for more than 4000 fine vintages. Interestingly, the owner of Ulus 29 is a pioneer in the restaurant and entertainment sector of Istanbul and has a number of trendy spots alongside Ulus 29. So, visit here and taste the best Istanbul food today.

Location - Ulus, A. Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Ulus Parkı İçi No:71/1, 34340, Turkey

Timings - Monday to Sunday: 5 PM to 10 PM

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2. Banyan

Now here's a think, most top restaurants in Istanbul today are not only renowned for their world-class facilities but are also under the heavy influence of East and West. Today, one can find many Asian fusion dishes here which are highly popular amongst travelers, and one such Istanbul restaurant that offers such experience is Banyan.

Nestled on the top floor of a historical building, visiting here to savor healthy Asian fusion cuisines is one of the top things to do in Turkey today. Be it dishes like Sichuan Pepper Steak, Duck Satay, Dimsum, and more such options, the Banyan has it all for visitors. Need more? Well, the restaurant even offers tea, fresh juice, and cocktails to diners.

Location - Yıldız, Yıldız Muallim Naci Caddesi &, Salhane Sokak No:3, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings -

Monday to Saturday: 12 PM to 7 PM

Closed on Sundays

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3. Dubb Indian Bosphorus Restaurant

One of the best Indian restaurants in Istanbul, the Dubb Indian Bosphorus Restaurant is a paradise when it comes to tasting the best of Indian Cuisine. A fine dining restaurant that doesn't disappoint when it comes to the culinary experience, there are multiple facilities that Dubb Indian Bosphorus offers. There is a full bar available here while the restaurant even offers vegan options for diners.

With both indoor and outdoor seating available, visitors coming here can sit as per their preference and embrace the fascinating Bosphorus view while getting to taste the best of delicacies. As for the other additional facilities, one can even avail facilities like valet parking, free internet access, and so much more.

Location - Cumhuriyet Caddesi No:50 Floor 9, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings - Monday to Sunday: 6 PM to 11 PM

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4. St. Regis Brasserie

Want to taste the delicious French cuisine in the heart of Istanbul? Well, the St. Regis Brasserie awaits you. An intimate restaurant nestled in the ultra-luxurious St. Regis Istanbul Hotel, the restaurant is a perfect place where French culinary favorites are served with a Turkish touch. This Istanbul Turkish restaurant has an expansive menu that is perfect for your culinary adventures.

With a variety of salads, handcrafted pasta, sandwiches and so much more, this is a restaurant that will give you all the pleasure you can possibly hope for.

Notably, the St. Regis Brasserie specializes in its meatballs and pan-fried black beam which is an absolute treat for visitors. But if you're done with your dinner and wish to taste the best of desserts, well, the St. Regis Brasserie has it all for you. Besides, if you're wondering about the top attractions in Turkey, well, this restaurant has to be on that list.

Location - Harbiye, Mim Kemal Öke Cd. No:35, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings - Monday to Thursday: 7 AM to 7 PM

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5. Râna Meyhane

A restaurant in Istanbul that serves delicious Mediterranean and Ottoman cuisine, Râna Meyhane is a place that offers two different types of menus like traditional and modern. While the first menu provides options like goose liver terrine and so on, the second menu includes some of the best classics like Turkish Ravioli with beef, and so on.

In fact, as put down by many travelers visiting Istanbul, visiting the Râna Meyhane restaurant to taste the best of Ottoman cuisine is one of the top things to do in Istanbul today. So, what's the delay? Taste the classics like Turkish Ravioli or indulge in the flavors of  reds and whites here. Interestingly, Râna's collection of these drinks has earned national recognition and has been awarded.

Location - Ömer Avni, İnönü Cd. No:50, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings -

Monday to Saturday: 6 PM to 12 AM

Closed on Sundays

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6. Kroren Restaurant

A Chinese restaurant in Istanbul that has earned immense recognition for its immense contribution to the culinary industry in Istanbul, the Kroren Restaurant is a fine place that doesn't disappoint travelers when it comes to Chinese cuisine. The restaurant offers vegetarian options along with the best of vegan options to diners who prefer it. Hence, as far as the menu of Kroren is concerned, one can expect to get multiple options for all taste bud types.

What's more? Visitors coming here can expect to get the most authentic taste of Chinese cuisine while the staff at the restaurant is always there to provide the assistance one needs when enjoying a meal here. So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Kroren Restaurant and relish the flavors of dumpling soup and other such delicacies here.

Location - Topkapi Mahallesi, Turgut Ozal Millet Cad. No: 170/A Fatih, Pazartekke Tramway Station, Istanbul 34093 Turkey

Timings - Monday to Sunday: 10 AM to 11 PM

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7. Maiden’s Tower

Another of those best Istanbul restaurants offering a rich culinary experience to visitors, the Maiden's Tower is a place that stands at the intersection of the Bosphorus where Asia and Europe meet. Boasting of its 2500 years old history, the place today serves as a fine café and restaurant where visitors can come and savor the best of delicacies while embracing the amazing views around.

This is, in fact, a place where one can host multiple events and ceremonies like a wedding or business engagement. The restaurant offers International lunch along with its world-class dinner.

Likewise, it is one of those places to visit in Turkey where one can enjoy live music and a friendly mood to go with the delicious meal that is served on the table. So, visit here and enjoy a fine culinary experience. Book your table in advance and opt for either indoor or outdoor seating.

Location - Salacak, Üsküdar Salacak Mevkii, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings - Monday to Sunday: 9:15 AM to 7 PM

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8. Feriye Palace

If there's one Istanbul restaurant that has contributed massively to the rising fame of Ottoman Turkish cuisine, well, it's the Feriye Palace. Known for its amazing presentation, private dining, immense knowledge, and experience of food, the Feriye Palace is the place where one can truly taste the best of Ottoman cuisine in Istanbul. Diners are fascinated by the top-notch presentation while the taste speaks for itself. As for the locations of the restaurant? One can truly have a great time watching the amazing views of the Bosphorus while savoring a meal here.

Location - Yıldız, Çırağan Cd. No:44 D:No:44, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings - Monday to Sunday: 9 AM to 12 AM

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9. Backyard Restaurant And Bar

Perched in between the magnificent beauty of French Orphanage, Backyard Restaurant and bar is one of the most serene restaurants in Istanbul. Overlooking the BebekBay, the restaurant offers a delighting taste to enjoy. It is the Turkish platter that makes it such a great place for enjoying every meal, be it lunch or dinner and breakfast. Don’t miss out on the special egg dishes that are served with variety.

What’s more to enjoy? Well, it is the DJ, with some grooving beats that will make you dance and sing along. Sip your best cocktail and spend the best evening at Backyard Restaurant and bar. And if loud music, happening things aren’t your things, you can get your seats reserved at Fuzuli. The intimate and musical vibe4s of the place are just perfect to relax and ease off.
Location: Bebek Mah. Bebeköy Sk., No:4, Bebek, Istanbul

Timings:

• Backyard: 10:00 am to 11 pm
• BackBar: 5 pm to 1 am
• Closed on Sundays

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10. 360 Istanbul Restaurant

Imagine having a tempting meal while witnessing the serenity of the landscape, cities, streets, and beaches in Istanbul. The 360 restaurant is among the top restaurants in Turkey where you can enjoy all meal courses in a delighting and enthralling manner. Perched on a roof of a 19th-century apartment building, the restaurant not just offers visitors a great taste but a bird eye view of the embassy row in Beyoglu.

It is a place where you can satisfy all your hunger with the best fusion of Turkish and international cuisines. Focusing on four of its main components as Cuisine, Entertainment Design, and Atmosphere, 360 Istanbul restaurant and bar is one place where you can eat, entertain and enjoy.

While the menu here is crafted for every foodie out there, the dumplings and kebabs are the best to try on. There will be music and a great service to make it one of the most unforgettable moments of your life.

Location: Istiklal Street Misirr Apt. No: 163/8, Beyoglu, Istanbul

Timings:

• Sunday to Thursday 12:00 pm to 02:00 am
• Friday and Sunday 12:00 pm to 04.00 am

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11. Spago Restaurant

If you love eating some fancy food in a luxuriating ambiance, the Spago Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Istanbul, Turkey. Located in Nisantasi, the restaurant not just features some exotic cuisine but some signature drinks to complement your fancy dining. The menu here includes every detectable cuisine from California, Asia, and Italy. This blend of flavors, all from different food destinations in the world, makes it the most loved eatery in Istanbul.

Talking about the interiors and the ambiance, the restaurant has an open terrace seating where you can celebrate a special night. Get a private space reserved for any grand event you are willing to celebrate with your friends or family at Spago Restaurant. The contemporary style of the interiors and the high-class service has made it the top restaurant in Turkey.

Location: Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi No 35 Nisantasi Sisli 34367/Istanbul

Timings:

• Bar & Terrace: 3:00 pm to 2:00 am
• Dinner: 6:00 pm to 11:30 pm
• Aperitivo: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

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12. Nicole Restaurant

A restaurant in Istanbul Turkey, Nicole is famous for its deliciously made dishes and cuisines picked from almost every corner of the world. Inspired by the mother Agnes Marthe Nicole, the restaurant is a blend of contemporary and Mediterranean dishes that are prepared and served with an excellent zest. You can enjoy your plate served with every fascinating flavor while witnessing the beauty of the entire city from the rooftop. The terrace opens up to the view of Istanbul's historical peninsula, one of the best places to visit in Istanbul.

It is the seasonal menu that makes it so popular and a desirable place to eat. Apart from the food and service, the restaurant features a lavish cellar of vintages presenting every signature drink to make the celebration grand.

Location: Tomtom dist. Tomtom Kaptan Str. No:18, Beyoglu, Istanbul

Timings:

• Tuesday to Saturday: 18:30 and last order at 21:30
• closed on Sunday and Monday

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13. Calipso Fish Restaurant

If you love seafood, especially fishes, the Calipso Fish Restaurant is the best place where you can eat and enjoy. Marked as the best restaurant in Turkey, Calipso is popular for the most delighting taste and food quality. Relish the taste of seashells and the special fish dishes that are prepared with a mixture of exotic herbs and spices like Aegean herbs.

A number of desserts will be offered to make it a complete dining experience at Calipso Fish restaurant. There are the best world-class chefs that are adding to the specialty and all the enhanced taste you will be enjoying here. The Calipso restaurant is holding its excellence for the past 30 years, redefining the taste and pleasure of seafood in Istanbul. The interiors are marked with all excellence and sophisticated seating, making it the best restaurant in Istanbul, Turkey.

Location: Turgut Ozal Boulevard, Cumhuriyet Str., No:2 Kucukyali, Istanbul

Timings: Monday to Sunday: 11 am - 1 am

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14. Beyti Restaurant

Meat lovers can now find the best place to eat in Turkey. The Beyti Restaurant is known for the most deliciously made non-veg food with all those authentic spices and techniques. It was Mr. Beyti Güler who first introduced the term Meat in Turkey. Every ingredient was specially picked by him to ensure the taste and prepared them to lend the real taste.

There are ten dining rooms and three terraces where one can sit and enjoy the meal of the day. The interiors here represent the art inspired by the Ottoman Turkish. The modern architecture and traditional art enhance every corner of this top restaurant in Turkey.

Location: Orman Str. No:8, Florya, Bakirkoy, Istanbul

Timings: 11.30 am to 11.00 pm

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15. Asmali Cavit

Nestled in the famous Asmalimescit Street of Beyoglu and a place that is set to treat your taste buds, Asmali Cavit is a fine restaurant that has earned a name for itself thanks to its culinary brilliance. The place is often regarded as one of the Meyhanes where starters are absolutely mouthwatering. In fact, Asmali Cavet is an award-winning traditional eatery where one can taste the best of starters like thin slices of liver fried with onions which are called yaprak ciger or savor the deliciousness of muska boregi which is a fried triangle of phyllo dough stuffed with ground beef and onions. Interestingly, one of the main highlights in dishes served by Asmali Cavit is meatballs. Besides, for those looking for a traditional Turkish tavern, this is the place that is definitely worth visiting. So, what’s making you wait? Visit Asmali Cavit in Istiklal Street and savor the delicious delicacies served here.

Location - Asmalı Mescit, Mahallesi, Asmalı Mescit Cd. 16/D, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings -

Monday to Saturday: 1 PM to 7 PM

Closed on Sundays

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16. Mikla Restaurant

Another award-winning restaurant nestled in Beyoglu District of Istanbul, Mikla Restaurant of Mehmet Gürs is set on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel. While offering some majestic views of the area, the restaurant serves delicious delicacies to visitors. It is a place where you truly see the blend of new and ancient culinary techniques.

Visitors can come here and savor the best of food cooked in the new Anatolian kitchen. Besides, the restaurant even has light music to add a sense of charm to your overall experience. So, what's the delay? Visit the Mikla Restaurant on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel and experience the best of culinaire.

Location - Asmalı Mescit, The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:15, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings -

Monday to Saturday: 6 PM to 2 AM

Closed on Sundays  

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17. Neolokal

An elegant restaurant located in karakoy, Neolokal is another fine eatery that serves food that is inspired by mother earth. Every delicacy on the menu of the restaurant has been modelled and designed by tradition. As guests put it themselves, the team at the restaurant lays the utmost emphasis on providing genuine experience to visitors.

Some of the popular delicacies of the restaurant include Katmer and Tirit, Grilled Sea Bass which is a real favorite amongst travelers, lamna and Chard Sarma, and so much more. Interestingly, if you're looking to experience the best of nightlife in Istanbul, Neolokal has to be one of the places where you can visit during the evening. The whole decor of the restaurant has been duly designed and is highly appealing to the eye. So, why ponder over the best restaurants when there are eateries Neolokal seving fine delicacies? Visit the restaurant and savor the best of culinary delights.

Location - Azapkapı, Bankalar Cd. No:11, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Timings -

Tuesday: 3 PM to 7 PM

Wednesday to Saturday: 1 PM to 7 PM

Closed on Sundays and Mondays

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18. Arkestra

Considered as one of the best Michelin starred restaurants in Istanbul, Arkestra Restaurant invites visitors on a cultural odyssey through the country's rich culinary legacy with its delectable offerings that skillfully combine tradition and innovation. With an exquisitely designed dining space adorned with wood wall paneling featuring artful details, chandeliers to uplift your mood, you can savor the soulful dishes thoughtfully handcrafted by Chef Cenk Debensason. The menu will surprise you with its exotic European dishes featured on the open kitchen where you can find the ideal blend of modern European cooking techniques and innovative global culinary ideas. Never forget to try out their signature dishes like Oxtail Ravioli, Trout & Sorrel, Chicken Ballotine, Duck Apicius, Steak Au Poivre for the ultimate culinary bliss.

Location: Etiler, Dilhayat Sk. No:28, 34337 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye

Timings: 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Remains closed on Sunday

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19. Inari Omakase

Best known for coming up with an invention to Istanbul’s culinary landscape, Inari Omakase boasts of its exquisite flavors that represents a thoughtful and distinctive blend of sushi ingredients from Japan and the rich Turkish flavors. With a 70-seater space designed with a chic and elegant atmosphere, the restaurant’s is prepared with the fresh seafood of the season including nigiri, sashimi, tempura, and robata to bring out enticing flavors to relish for a lifetime. With a lustrous comprehensive menu featuring an array of classic Japanese delicacies, this culinary journey will leave your mind in awe. One of the best things to do in Istanbul is to try out the major highlights of their menu ranging from Shrimp Ceviche, Style Suzuki Sashimi, Lechede Tigre, Tuna Maki, Chirasahi Tartar, Omakase, King Crab Nigiri to delectable dessert platter.

Location: Kuruçeşme, Kuruçeşme Cd. No:11, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye

Timings: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Remains closed on Monday

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20. Yeni Lokanta

Yeni Lokanta is one of the best restaurants in Istanbul, which is known for its ideal combination of traditions and a contemporary twist which results in an extraordinary outcome. Considered as the Michelin starred restaurant in Istanbul, Yeni Lokanta takes pride in its top-notch hospitality offers to the guests which reinvites them to embark on a gastronomic voyage. With an idyllic blend of Turkish architectural styles adorned with high ceilings, Turkish tiles, and green lamps, this restaurant will offer you the best space to unwind and make some of the best memories. One of the major highlights of their Turkish menu is the traditional cherished ‘manti’ which is substituted with dried eggplant fillings and served with Antakya-style yogurt sauce. Try out the popular dessert kadayif pastry from the menu which is an ultimate sweet relish.

Location: Tomtom, Kumbaracı Ykş. No:66/B, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye

Timings: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. to 12.30 a.m.

Remains closed on Sunday & Monday

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21. Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler

Undertake an invigorating culinary journey by visiting Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler, one of the restaurants with an exquisite menu and refreshing aroma. Unlock the best flavors of steak, which is an artful presentation of perfection and passion. Redefine the palatable tastes of the delicacies by stepping into an internationally acclaimed destination. The restaurant features an elegant setting with opulent interiors highly influenced by Turkish style and designs where you can unwind in the best way possible with your family. Never miss out on trying out the best delectable dishes at Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler, one of the best places to visit in Istanbul, such as Meat Sushi, Dallas Steak, Golden Baklava Cake, Nusr-Et Special Sushi, Nusr-Et Barbecue Sudjuk, Shrimp Tempura, Fillet Mignon Steak, Tomahawk, etc., for an alluring wholesome meal.

Location: Etiler, Nisbetiye Cd No:87, 34337 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye

Timings: 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

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A city that offers the perfect blend of European and Asian flavors, Istanbul has a lot to be admired for. From top of the line cafés to some of the finest restaurants in Istanbul that are renowned for their world-class culinary adventures, travelers coming to this part of the world get multiple opportunities to take care of their taste buds. So, if you're a foodie heading to the gorgeous city of Istanbul, make sure to check these top-notch restaurants mentioned above and have a great time tasting some unique dishes. Book your Turkey tour packages with us today and come witness the wonders of this country.

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