Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Istanbul has always been a melting pot of cultures, and this is particularly evident in its cuisine. The best way to experience Istanbul’s diverse culinary landscape is through its vibrant fine dining scene. The city’s unique geographical position enables a cuisine inspired by various international styles and ingredients. In this post, you will discover the 14 best restaurants to experience fine dining Istanbul.
Table of Contents
1. Neolokal
Maksut Aşkar is a renowned chef in Turkey, attracting people from all over to try his unique take on traditional flavors in Neolokal. His goal is to preserve recipes and ingredients that might otherwise be forgotten in the modern world, focusing on hyper-local and seasonal ingredients. Every dish is a masterpiece, blending flavors, textures, and presentation beautifully. There are three different tasting menus available, including options for vegetarians and those who are gluten-free. Highlights include the Poached Black Bass, Lamb, and Freekah. For a delightful surprise, the Neolokal team serves a variety of exquisite desserts, perfectly concluding the dining experience.
Azapkapı, Mahı, Bankalar Cd. No:11, 34420, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul | instagram.com/neolokal/
2. Spago
Istanbul, a city steeped in history, now hosts a culinary gem in the form of Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant. Puck, a Michelin-starred chef with a global influence from Beverly Hills to London, has made Spago his flagship eatery. It offers a modern and creative seasonal menu inspired by his international flair. Perched on the rooftop of St. Regis Istanbul, Spago provides stunning views over the Bosphorus. While enjoying the view, especially during a golden sunset, guests can sip on locally-inspired cocktails or choose from an impressive 500-label wine list. The menu features locally-inspired dishes, such as charcoal grilled chestnut with mascarpone, and Ricotta Gnocchi or Almond Crusted Salmon, and dessert delicacies like Crème Brûlée Künefe.
Harbiye, Mim Kemal Öke Cd. No:35, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul | instagram.com/spagoistanbul/
3. Topaz
Topaz uniquely blends Mediterranean and Ottoman cuisines, offering a dining experience overlooking the Bosphorus. The restaurant’s tranquil ambiance is inspired by the gemstone it’s named after, featuring geometric designs and modern decor. Signature dishes at Topaz include the Beef Rib, which is slow-cooked for 12 hours and served with root vegetables and wild mushroom risotto, and the ‘Bozcaada’ Grilled Seabass, accompanied by eggplant in black ink and green asparagus. A must-try dessert is the Roasted Pistachio Warm Baklava, perfect for a sweet finish. Topaz also boasts a nationally recognized wine list, with staff readily available to suggest pairings upon request.
Ömer Avni, İnönü Cd. No:50, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul | instagram.com/topaz.istanbul/
4. Arkestra
Arkestra, a recent addition to the city’s fine dining scene, is a place where Chef Cenk Debensason turns culinary art into reality on a plate. The restaurant offers dishes that evoke emotion, focusing on seasonal ingredients. The menu skillfully blends modern European cuisine with global influences, showcasing the chef’s unique creativity. Exciting new dishes like aubergine & tare cashew and oxtail ravioli sit alongside timeless favorites such as katsu sando, steak au poivre, and tuna sashimi. Arkestra has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination in Istanbul.
Etiler, Dilhayat Sk. No:28, 34337 Beşiktaş/İstanbul | instagram.com/arkestra.ist/
5. Mikla
Mikla, renowned for its exceptional talent, is a Michelin star-awarded restaurant that continues to captivate diners. Since its opening in October 2005, it has been one of Istanbul’s most sought-after dining spots, offering views of the city’s historic landscape. The menu at Mikla, inspired by both Turkish and Scandinavian culinary traditions, reflects its name, which means Istanbul in the Viking language. The ingredients used in Mikla’s kitchen are sourced from various regions of Anatolia, bringing refined flavors to the table with stylish presentation. Noteworthy dishes include the Turkish Appetizer Sampler, Grilled Lamb, and Grilled Sea Bass, each deserving special attention.
Asmalı Mescit, The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:15, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul | instagram.com/miklarestaurant/
6. 16 Roof
Located at the top of the Swissôtel, the 16 Roof restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. The interior design is modern and minimalist, featuring soft blue tones that mirror the river’s colors. The chef specializes in contemporary world cuisine, creating dishes with distinct flavors, including desserts. Don’t miss the caramelized banana and cinnamon tart with caramel ice cream, or the restaurant’s exceptional version of the Turkish staple, pistachio baklava. Each dish on the tasting menu is thoughtfully paired with a matching Turkish wine.
Visnezade Mah. Acisu Sok. No:19 Swissotel The Bosphorus, Istanbul 16th Floor, Macka, Besiktas, Istanbul | instagram.com/16roof/
7. Nicole
At Nicole, you can enjoy contemporary Mediterranean cuisine on a serene and modern terrace that offers views of the Old Town and Prince Islands. The kitchen is led by the chef couple, Kaan and Aylin, who bring a fresh and modern approach to classic flavors. The menu features contemporary dishes centered around seasonal ingredients and varies accordingly. Guests can choose between the six-course Discovery Menu or the seven-course Nicole Menu, with options like Fish Pastrami and Tarama served with Bazlama Bread and Pickles, or the Catch Of The Day accompanied by Smoked Çerkez Cheese and Parsley Butter. Nicole also boasts a wine cellar that includes chateau-style local wines from the Aegean, Thrace, and Anatolia regions, alongside a selection of imported varieties.
Tomtom, Tomtom Kaptan Sk. No:18, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul | instagram.com/nicolerestaurant/
8. Sankai by Nagai
Sankai by Nagaya, a Japanese omakase restaurant, features a concept designed by Michelin-starred chef Yoshizumi Nagaya. Located at Bebek Hotel by The Stay, the restaurant offers an impeccable dining experience. The focus here is on balance and craftsmanship, presenting art-like plates, traditional Edomae-style sushi, and Kaiseki cuisine through omakase tasting menus. Each dish, from the Nori Waffle with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and pomegranate gel to the Seasonal Platter featuring five seasonal delicacies from both land and sea, is of exceptional quality.
Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd. No:34, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul | instagram.com/sankaibynagaya/
9. Araka
Araka, established by chef Pınar Taşdemir, is situated in a standalone setting on one of the picturesque streets of Yeniköy that leads to the sea. It’s the perfect restaurant for those who enjoy dishes made with fresh vegetables and herbs. Araka is renowned for its plates that are prepared with unique aromas and highly appreciated flavors.
Yeniköy, Kapalı Bakkal Sk. No:8, 34464 Sarıyer/İstanbul | instagram.com/araka.istanbul/
10. TURK Fatih Tutak
At Turk, Chef Faith Tutak offers a unique interpretation of Anatolian flavors, revisiting the roots of traditional Turkish cuisine and presenting it to guests with a personal touch. The restaurant ensures that each dish has its own distinct character. Every plate among Turk’s carefully crafted dishes is prepared with attention and precision akin to a work of art. You need to try their signature Turkish Ice Cream – it’s a heavenly experience!
Cumhuriyet Hacıahmet Silahşör Cad, Yeniyol Sk. No:2, 34440 Şişli/İstanbul | instagram.com/turkfatihtutak/
11. 29
Opened in 1993, 29 offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul’s bridges from its summer terraces. The restaurant focuses on gastronomic concepts, using traditional cooking methods to deliver regional cuisine with seasonal ingredients. 29 Restaurant takes pride in making its own dry-aged meats, ice cream, and pasta, providing an authentic dining experience. The menu includes gastronomy-focused dishes, classic Turkish cuisine, and sushi. Must-try items include the onion soup, mushroom risotto, and kebab in yogurt. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list with around 4,500 bottles of renowned brands.
Ulus, Ahmet Adnan Saygun Cd. No:71/1, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul | instagram.com/29_yirmidokuz/
12. Banyan
Banyan, nestled in Istanbul with its blend of Eastern and Western influences, lives up to its motto “food for the soul” with its Asian fusion cuisine. Located on the top floor of a historic building, it offers stunning views of the city while serving healthy dishes with Asian roots. The menu features delights like Spicy Crab Salad, Gyoza, and Sushi Rolls, which can be enjoyed indoors or on the outdoor terrace, the twinkling lights of Istanbul will provide a dazzling backdrop to this local favorite.
Yıldız Muallim Naci Caddesi &, Salhane Sk. No:3, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul | instagram.com/banyan.istanbul/
13. Cipriani
Cipriani is a top-notch Italian restaurant in the city, offering a wide range of classic Italian dishes, including risottos, carpaccios, fresh pasta, and pizzas. Highly recommended is their beautifully crafted Risotto with Lobster & Seafood and Risotto Funghi. Make sure not to miss their famous dessert. The restaurant features elegant contemporary decor, enhancing the dining experience. If you’re in Istanbul during the summer, consider reserving a table on their charming terrace for an even more delightful experience.
Harbiye, Maçka Palas, Maçka Cd. No:33/C, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul | instagram.com/cipriani_istanbul/
14. Ocak
Ocak, situated in the Old City, is an ideal venue for immersing yourself in Turkish cuisine. This refined restaurant presents upscale interpretations of authentic and traditional Anatolian dishes. Begin your evening with one of the restaurant’s vibrant and popular cocktails, then explore the culinary creations of Chef Omer Bozyap. Don’t miss the ‘five shades of chickpeas’, featuring five delightful variations of chickpeas, as well as other must-try dishes like Stuffed Chard and Braised Lamb Shank.
Hobyar, No:5 | Regie Ottoman İstanbul Hotel, Mimar Vedat Sk., 34112 Fatih/İstanbul | instagram.com/ocak.ist/
