5 Best Restaurants in Istanbul, Turkey

Adem Baba

$$ | Bosphorus

This is a Turkish version of a New England fish shack, with nets and crab traps hanging from the ceiling in two venues across the street from one other. Families and other groups come here to enjoy simple, fresh, well-prepared fish for much less than what they would pay at some of the fancier seafood restaurants along the Bosphorus (it's cheaper in part because no alcohol is served).

Satış Meydanı Sok. 2, Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey
212-263–2933
Known For
  • in a scenic neighborhood on the water
  • various fish dishes, including a catch of the day
  • laid-back atmosphere

Çınaraltı

$$$ | Bosphorus

In business for three decades on Ortaköy's waterfront square, unpretentious Çınaraltı ("under the sycamore") has a massive sycamore tree growing up through its center and shading its upstairs terrace. The balık böreği (a spring roll-esque fish pastry) is a highlight of the wide though fairly standard meze selection, and the fish is mainly served grilled or fried (make sure the price quoted is per fish or serving, not per kilo).

İskele Meydanı 28, Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey
212-261–4616
Known For
  • relaxed atmosphere
  • reasonable prices
  • traditional Turkish cuisine
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Reservations essential

The House Café Ortaköy

$$$ | Bosphorus

The largest and one of the most popular branches of this local chain of chic eateries is directly on the waterfront, with stylish furnishings and two enormous open-air terraces. The international menu ranges from starters like Asian-style crispy chicken fingers and salmon ceviche to main-course salads, pastas, pizzas, steaks, and the signature house burger.

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Tuğra Restaurant

$$$$ | Bosphorus

Fitting for a restaurant housed in the Çırağan Palace, dinner here is a refined, luxurious affair, with formal service, rich Ottoman and Turkish specialties, and one of the most high-end wine lists in Turkey (Chateau Pétrus, anyone?). The pricey menu features cold and hot meze, and entrées emphasize fish and meat dishes, such as in the signature külbastı, lamb escalope served with pureed eggplant.

Çırağan Cad. 32, Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey
212-236–7333
Known For
  • alfresco seating with a Bosphorus view
  • elegant interior
  • luxurious Ottoman and Turkish cuisine
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Reservations essential, Jacket required

Voi Feriye

$ | Ortaköy

Situated on the Ortaköy seaside, with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out on the Bosphorus, Voi is a relaxing place to grab a coffee and a quick breakfast with a view.