Best Restaurants in Istanbul 2023

Updated Date : 10 October 2025

Best Restaurants in Istanbul

Here is a complicated subject. It is as hard to decide as it is to share.
It is not easy to choose restaurants among the options that have different cuisines and services. It´s like looking for drops in an ocean.
However, we have prepared a list full of the most specials. These restaurants will offer you not only a meal but also an experience.

View What to Eat in Istanbul Article

Mikla Restaurant

Mikla Restaurant is the first influential step in the Turkish restaurant industry with the famous chef Mehmet Gurs. It attracts attention not only with its star-worthy service but also with its innovative structure. You can enjoy delicious plates while admiring the most beautiful view of the city. Also, it would be best if you did not ignore their cocktails. We strongly recommend you to try Signature cocktails.

Mikla Restaurant

Neolokal Restaurant

Meet the magnificent business of Chef Maksut Askar  and his business partner Erim Leblebicioglu. Neolokal Restaurant, which deserves its name, offers modernized Turkish cuisine in the best way. It keeps up with the change of nature with its menu that changes every season. And it presents fresh and effective service to its guests. Do not leave without stopping by the bar. This is a point where luxury meets pleasant comfort.

Neolokal Restaurant

View Top 10 Turkish Desserts and Sweets Article

Aya Fish Lounge

Sultanahmet´s new favorite is quickly becoming prominent among countless restaurants. As the name suggests, Aya Fish Lounge, located in Aya Sultanahmet Hotel, steals hearts with fish products. But at the same time, excellent meat products and appetizers decorate the tables. in the heart of Sultanahmet, this restaurant with a view of Hagia Sophia will give a natural home feeling.

Aya Fish Lounge

16 Roof

Attracting attention with its modern and stylish designs on the terrace of Swiss Hotel, 16 Roofs are rising fast. You can get pleasant service while enjoying the view of the Bosphorus. One of the things that makes the place interesting is that it has a special separate section for up to 12 people.

16 Roof Restaurant

Sunset Grill Bar & Restaurant

Doesn´t family businesses always sound more interesting? It´s not just a standard service, but it has one of the best sushi menus in the city. Enjoy the perfect view of the Bosphorus. But don´t forget to make a reservation before going here.

Sunset Grill istanbul

View Vegan and Vegeterian Restaurants in Istanbul

Meze By Lemon Tree

Are you looking for a sweet chef restaurant like its name? This is here. Meze by Lemon Tree offers you the perfect sharing experience. It´s like you said that for a moment, there was a place that would feel a bit like home while walking down the road. The restaurant you are looking for is right there. By the way, have you read our article about "mezes"

Meze by Lemon Tree

Tersane Ocakbasi

Have you heard of the "Ocakbasi" culture? Your kebabs will be grilled in the distance you will see; maybe you can touch. Ocakbasi is not just sitting next to the fire but feeling the warmth of the culture. Tersane Restaurant gives you this experience in its most elegant and clean form. In Karakoy, such a local service on the terrace is rare.

Aretin Yeri

Let´s raise a toast for good conversation, friendship, traveling, health, honor. Hours are not enough to explain the "Meyhane" culture, but at least 1-2 hours of Aret´in Yeri´s experience expresses this. You will be amazed by such friendly service in such a comfortable place. Don´t leave without ordering the seafood-based appetizers.

Aretin Yeri

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Pandeli Restaurant

It is located in the Spice Bazaar, a surprising culinary wonder. It fascinates not only with its cuisine but with its memories. Audrey Hepburn to Catherine Zeta-Jones is the address for those who want to experience a stylish nobility. Pandeli Restaurant, which treats every guest with the same kindness, will be a wonderful memory.

Pandeli Restaurant

The Final Word

The restaurants we recommend are selected from those that will serve and help you to create an unforgettable memory. To make your memories.
When you visit a place, always think about why you love it. Service, smiling, clean plates, delicious food, a pleasant atmosphere which one fascinates you? 

Does Istanbul have Michelin star restaurants?

Since the Michelin guide has not been published in Turkey, there are no Michelin-starred restaurants in Istanbul. The list consists of the countries where the guide is published.

Which is the Best Restaurant in Istanbul?

Choosing the best in the best category is not right or honest. You have to go, try it, and share it with us. Maybe you can help us choose.

Can I find vegetarian food in restaurants?

Yes, they can offer options that will be specially prepared for you if you inform them beforehand.

Is it necessary to make reservations for restaurants?

Yes, as possible. in such a crowded city, restaurant reservations are essential, especially in times of high tourism.

Is there a dress code in restaurants?

It depends on the nature of the restaurant you go to, but yes. If you are going to a restaurant with a reservation, smart-casual will be suitable.

 

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