Istanbul, where East meets West, is a vibrant city with pride in its rich culinary heritage and history. Whether you’re a fan of street food or luxurious dining, the city caters to every palate. Whether savouring Anatolian delicacies at Mabou or reliving Ottoman grandeur at Matbah, every meal in Istanbul is an unforgettable experience. So, loosen your belt and dive into this gastronomic wonderland!
Aheste
The best part of one of the famous restaurants in Istanbul - Aheste, is that the menu allows for constructing your own dishes, and highlights include the inventive calamaraki and seabass ceviche with yuzu. This place is ideal for a special occasion or date night and provides fine dining with a £30 Meze tasting menu that is an excellent value for its quality.
Çiya Sofrası
Ever in a dilemma about where to eat in Istanbul? Well, think no more, Çiya Sofrası is one of the famous restaurants in Istanbul. Located in the market district of Kadiköy, Çiya Sofrası is renowned for its daily-changing menu based on the available ingredients. It is a popular choice and serves some of the best kebabs on the Asian side of the river.
Matbah Restaurant
For an authentic Ottoman cuisine experience, Matbah restaurant is a hidden gem of the city. It offers a unique dining experience with traditional recipes and a warm, elegant ambience. The restaurant's decor blends modern and traditional styles, creating a cosy yet upscale environment, and making it one of the top places to eat in Istanbul.
Osman Kebab
A local favourite, Osman kebab is known for its juicy wood-fired doner kebabs and mixed grill. One of the best restaurants in Istanbul, usually pretty busy, but additional tables are often set up on the street to accommodate more diners. Enjoy the street view while having the scrumptious kebabs!
Sehzade Erzurum Cag Kebabi
This no-frills kebab shop is highly recommended for its simple yet delicious menu, featuring cağ kebabs, salads, and a yoghurt dip. Worrying about where to eat in Istanbul when it’s your treat with friends or family? Sehzade Erzurum Cag Kebabi is very affordable and offers a welcoming atmosphere amidst the bustling market of the city.
Akin Balik
Located in Ortaköy, Akin Balik is a popular fish and seafood restaurant with a shady lunch spot and fairy-lit evenings. One of the famous restaurants in Istanbul which offers high-quality seafood at more affordable rates when compared to the fish stalls on Galata Bridge.
Yanyalı Fehmi
Specializing in Ottoman cuisine, Yanyalı Fehmi serves up to 100 different dishes daily, showcasing forgotten Turkish recipes. Signature items include Yanya Meatballs wrapped in eggplant slices, offering diners a taste of authentic Turkish flavours, making it one of the most beautiful and best restaurants in Istanbul.
Mabou
Led by German chef Cem Ekşi, Mabou blends French cuisine with Turkish flavours to create delicious and innovative dishes such as handmade pasta and seasonal desserts. With regularly changing tasting menus and vegan options for its customers this restaurant is one of the most happening places in the city of Istanbul. Don’t forget to try out one of the famous restaurants in Istanbul and thank us later!
Eleven Brothers
This eatery is celebrated for its traditional Turkish breakfast offerings, making it an ideal spot, just perfect to start your day in Istanbul. With a variety of dishes that showcase the local ingredients, Eleven Brothers provides an authentic breakfast experience. No wonder this place is one of the top places to eat in Istanbul!
Antakya Mutfağı
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A hidden gem near Istiklal Street, Antakya Mutfağı offers an extensive menu of traditional Turkish dishes with standout mezes that are perfect for sharing. The cosy atmosphere at this top place of Istanbul makes it an inviting spot for a casual dining experience for its customers to relish.
Karadeniz Döner Asım Usta
A restaurant, known for its quality and flavour at reasonable prices, Karadeniz Döner Asım Usta is one of the famous restaurants in Istanbul to tantalize your taste buds. For those craving Döner kebab but in a different style, Karadeniz Döner Asım Usta is another top choice.