We’ve compiled a list of the best live music Istanbul venues where you can experience the joy of live music. In some of these venues, you can savor a delightful meal and then relax to a jazz band with cocktails. Others offer a different vibe, where you can immerse yourself in songs accompanied by raki. There are also places where you can let loose and dance the stress away to uplifting music.
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1. Chalet Garden
Chalet Garden brings the feel of the Swiss Alps right to the heart of Istanbul. This unique spot offers a blend of traditional and modern dishes. Chalet Garden is special as it’s located in central Istanbul and boasts a garden. Here, you can enjoy live music on certain days of the week. At Chalet Garden, you’ll find artists from various genres performing live, along with DJ performances, making it a vibrant and diverse experience.
Vişnezade Mah. Acısu St. No: 19, Maçka, Beşiktaş, Istanbul | instagram.com/chaletgarden/
2. Long Bar
Raffles Istanbul’s Long Bar is a much-loved destination for its welcoming vibe, great food, and signature cocktails that are perfect for the chilly weather. Entertainment kicks off at 21:30 each evening. Long Bar hosts a variety of artists showcasing different musical styles like Latin, jazz, R&B, and pop every week. The venue features both sit-down and standing bistro arrangements. Guests can enjoy flavors from Raffles’ cuisine and choose from a range of signature cocktails to suit their tastes.
Raffles Istanbul, Zorlu Center, Levazım, Koru Sok., Beşiktaş/İstanbul | rafflesistanbul.com/restaurant/long-bar/
3. Korto
Korto, originally opened in Alaçatı, has made its way to Istanbul. They’ve broadened their sushi concept from Alaçatı by adding world cuisine flavors to their menu. Situated in Kuruçeşme, Korto has two distinct areas: Korto Live and Korto Roof. In the Live section, there’s a vibrant concert atmosphere, while the Roof offers a chance to enjoy beautiful sounds and views while sipping a cocktail. The garden setting is both stylish and pleasant. Keep up-to-date with their program on their Instagram page. It’s a good idea to make a reservation before visiting.
Kuruçeşme Mah. Muallim Naci Cad. Öksüz Çocuk St. No:7 Beşiktaş / Istanbul | instagram.com/kortoistanbul/
4. Günay Restaurant
Günay Restaurant is a standout destination for nightlife in Istanbul. It’s famous for hosting top performers and maintaining the city’s historic casino culture. If you haven’t yet had the chance to experience live music from renowned artists and savor the delicious food from its extensive menu, consider adding Günay Restaurant to your upcoming plans.
19 May, Beytem Plaza, Büyükdere Cad. D:20/A, Şişli/Istanbul | instagram.com/gunayrestaurant/
5. Otuzyedi
If you like to taste world cuisine and listen to good music, you should try Otuzyedi . Located in a two-storey old Arnavutköy mansion, the venue hosts a DJ performance on the upper floor and live music on the lower floor.
Arnavutköy, Arnavutköy Dere Sok. No:1, Beşiktaş, Istanbul | instagram.com/otuzyediarnavutkoy/
6. Pera 77
Pera 77, one of the newest live music and jazz spots in the city, is a haven for jazz enthusiasts. Hosting notable jazz musicians and performances with a jazz influence, the venue welcomes both local and international artists. They perform four days a week, from Wednesday to Saturday. In addition to great music, Pera 77 offers a dining experience with The Marmara Pera’s menu, catering to a variety of tastes.
Asmalı Mescit, Meşrutiyet Cad. No:15 Beyoğlu/İstanbul | instagram.com/perayetmisyedi/
7. Kayikhane
At Moda Kayıkhane, one of the most popular spots in Moda, a different artist or group performs live nearly every night. The venue offers a range of live music styles, from 90s hits to acoustic sets. You can stay updated with their latest programs by checking their Instagram account. This place is perfect for those who enjoy diverse musical experiences.
Moda Cad. No:194 Kadıköy, Moda, Istanbul | instagram.com/modakayikhane/
8. Cahide Palazzo
Cahide Palazzo in Maslak 1453 is a lively place where famous singers perform from Tuesday to Saturday. You can see well-known artists like Gülşen, Sibel Can, and Hakan Altun there often.
Maslak Mah. Taşyoncası St. Maslak 1453 Cad, No:1-H, Sarıyer/İstanbul | instagram.com/cahidepalazzo/
9. Goose No.25
Goose no.25 is a charming cocktail bar in Kuruçeşme. It has a beautiful design with art on the walls and is a great place to enjoy cocktails with a DJ set in a wonderful atmosphere. If you go on a night with live music, you’re sure to have a good time. While enjoying the garden, you might feel like you’re in a bar in Marrakech. The delicious food smells are tempting, and they have a talented female chef. Remember to make a reservation for a nice evening in Kuruçeşme.
Kuruçeşme Cad., 25B Beşiktaş/İstanbul | instagram.com/gooseistanbul/
10. Alaçatı Kafasi
If you’re looking to escape Istanbul without actually leaving, and feel like you’re stepping onto the sandy beaches of Alaçatı, there’s a place that captures this vibe with its 90s music theme. After enjoying a tasty meal, you can dive into the fun with various live performances. The menu offers Aegean delights, and you can sing along to Turkish pop songs from the stage. Check out the Instagram pages for who’s performing each week, and book a table for a mini-getaway right in Istanbul.
Suadiye Mah. Plaj Yolu Sok., No: 27/A Kadıköy/İstanbul | instagram.com/alacatikafasisuadiye/
11. La Boucherie Dinner Theatre
La Boucherie Dinner Theatre offers a unique experience where music becomes a spectacle, accompanied by carefully crafted menus. The venue’s interior is dominated by intense red lighting, and its stylish, rich decor is designed to make you feel special. The music style changes with the day and the program – sometimes it’s jazz on stage, other times stand-up comedy. Special themed nights like raki night feature different musical styles. You can check their Instagram pages to see who will be performing in their Dinner & Show concept. Since they only have limited seating, it’s a good idea to book your reservation quickly.
Nisbetiye Cd No: 13, Beşiktaş/İstanbul | instagram.com/laboucherieistanbul/
12. Divine Brasserie & Jazz Club
Divine, a restaurant known for jazz music, offers more than just jazz. Located in Topağacı, it has two sections: a restaurant and a club. Known for its international cuisine, Divine lets you enjoy live music performances either seated or standing, complementing its reputation for good food. It’s a place that pleases both your ears and taste buds. You can keep up with the schedule of this neighborhood favorite on its Instagram account. It’s also a good idea to experience different bands there. To enjoy a cozy and fun evening at Divine Brasserie & Jazz Club, just make a reservation to secure your spot.
Teşvikiye Mah., Ihlamur Yolu Sokak, Sokullu Apt., Nişantaşı, İstanbul | instagram.com/divinebrasserie.jazzclub/
13. The Badau
Located in Akasya AVM, this place might initially make you skeptical because of its mall setting. However, they promise to change your mind with their atmosphere and quality. Originally opened in Yel Değirmeni for jazz enthusiasts to enjoy good food and music, it later expanded and moved to Akasya. Now, it’s the largest jazz club in Turkey. Here, even the staff are musicians, and you might see them performing on stage later in the evening. The spacious setting, combined with the polite staff and owners, makes for a high-quality experience. Their focus is on great jazz music and ensuring guests have a pleasant, comfortable evening. This comfort also allows the musicians to freely express themselves, enriching your experience. There’s a different concert every day. Remember to check their schedule and make a reservation.
Akasya AVM, Çeçen Sokak 25, Acıbadem | instagram.com/thebadau.istanbul/
14. Any
Any, a well-known spot in Arnavutköy, gained popularity for its cocktails but also stands out for its breakfast, cuisine, and cozy atmosphere. Recently, they’ve added a new vibe with DJ or live music performances on select days of the week. The music starts early, especially on weekends, creating a setting where you can enjoy your meal and cocktails while having a good time with your guests. It’s a favored place for those who want to listen to music in a friendly, warm, and enjoyable environment. To know which days have music programs and who will be performing, you can follow their updates on their Instagram account.
Arnavutköy, Bebek Cad., No: 71/A Beşiktaş | instagram.com/anyistanbul/
15. Must
Must is a unique bar that embraces a hidden concept. Tucked away, in a secret garden’s back street, you’ll find this bar which transforms into a nightclub on the lower floor. It’s a place where you can enjoy live performances by famous artists, with a focus on Turkish live music.
Harbiye Mah., Mim Kemal Öke Cad., 11/A Şişli | instagram.com/mustnisantasi/
16. uluOrta
uluOrta is a lively venue that features a famous artist every day of the week. Known for its delicious menu, the food at uluOrta is just as popular as the entertaining live music. It’s a place where guests can enjoy great meals and performances.
Adnan Saygun Cad. Deniz Sitesi A block 26/31 Ulus/Beşiktaş | instagram.com/uluorta_/
