You step out of the elevator onto a rooftop. The lights of Istanbul flicker below. The first thing you notice is the smell! The aroma is of grilled lamb, warm spices, and a hint of citrus. Someone hands you a cold glass of a delicious cocktail. Across the room a darbuka picks up, and a dancer starts to sway.

That’s Nomads.

It isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a night out wrapped around a meal. Plates travel from Lebanon to Antakya, then a DJ set pulls you back to modern Istanbul. One minute you’re scooping hummus, the next you’re clapping along to the beat.

Come hungry, dress sharp(-ish), and let the evening run its course. By the time the last song fades and you ride down to the street, you’ll swear the city feels different, like you got to know its secret side for a few hours.

Ready? Let’s dive into what makes this place special.

Step Inside Nomads Istanbul

Walk out of the Sofitel’s rooftop elevator, and the city noise drops away. Soft lantern light bounces off copper walls, the air smells of grilled spices, and a hush of anticipation, equal parts dinner party and backstage whisper, hangs in the room. Nomads is built to slow you down, pull you in, and keep you curious until the last beat of the darbuka fades.

A Rooftop Built for Wonder

Dutch designer Rob Wagemans treated the space like a love letter to Istanbul. He stacked velvet cushions beside brushed-metal tables, hung latticed lanterns over sleek marble floors, and framed every corner with low, wide windows so the skyline never leaves your sight. Step onto the open terrace: the Bosphorus glitters on one side, old-town minarets glow on the other, and a cool breeze reminds you why rooftops were invented in the first place.

A Menu That Travels the Silk Road

Dinner starts with an edible map of the Levant. Hummus whipped till it’s silk, smoky muttabal, and bright beetroot tabbouleh arrive on hammered-copper trays meant for sharing and scooping. Then the grill fires up: Adana kebab with just-enough heat, chicken skewers brushed with pomegranate molasses, sea-bass fillets that taste like they jumped from Galata to your plate. Save room — warm semolina halva melts into buttery syrup, and the brownie, studded with walnuts, feels almost sinful against the night air. Unlimited local rakı, crisp white wine, or an easy pilsner keep the storytelling loose and the laughter louder.

A Night That Moves to the Beat

At nine, the lights dim and Nomads shifts gears. A hush, a drumroll then a swirl of silk as the first oriental dancer spins beneath a spotlight. Zenne performers follow, their footwork sharp, their smiles sharper, turning centuries-old tradition into pure show. The darbuka kicks in, a heartbeat you feel in your ribs, and just when you think the energy can’t climb higher, the DJ slips in a modern groove that locks East and West in the same four-four pulse. Between sets, the music drops low enough to swap platefuls and stories before it soars again.

The Vibe: Chic, Warm, Unforgettable

Nomads walks a fine line: polished enough for a proposal, loose enough for a last-minute “why not?” It’s the kind of place where a birthday toast might stand next to a corporate win, where strangers trade mezze tips across tables, and where every server seems to anticipate what you need a half-second before you know it yourself. When the final track fades and you ride the elevator back to street level, Istanbul feels different, larger, somehow brighter, because for a few hours you were part of the city’s private rooftop rhythm.

Insider Tips for the Perfect Evening

Book a little early: Nomads starts seating at 7 PM, but the sweet spot is 7:30. You settle in, order mezze, and have time to watch the sunset before the first dancer appears at nine.

Ask for the terrace first: On clear nights, nothing beats that Bosphorus view. If the weather turns, staff will slide you inside without fuss, same skyline, warmer breeze.

Dress smart-casual: No tie needed, but swap the beach tee for a crisp shirt or a chic dress. You’ll feel right at home with the copper lamps and velvet cushions.

Pick your photo moments: Blue hour on the rooftop, city lights just waking up.

Copper trays loaded with mezze: Lift one for the camera. The opening spin of the first oriental dancer — motion blur is half the magic.

Order a starter the minute you sit: The kitchen moves fast, but the beetroot tabbouleh and hummus land quickest. Perfect bites while you choose mains and sip the first round of rakı.

Follow these tiny moves and the whole night flows: no scrambling, no missed shots, just an easy glide from first toast to last beat.

Book Your Table: Here’s Why Now

Nomads only has so many seats, and every one of them looks out over Istanbul. Locals grab the prime Friday-Saturday spots a week ahead, and travelers in the know snap up what’s left.

Limited nightly capacity: Once the rooftop tables are gone, they’re gone until tomorrow.

High-season rush: May through October sunsets sell out fastest, especially around 7:30 PM.

No payment worries: Reserve on istanbul.com in under a minute and pay, so you won’t need to pay at the end if you don’t have extras. Oh, but you can still tip!

Instant confirmation: Booking information lands in your inbox the moment you click Purchase. That’s that easy!

Ready to lock in your own skyline seat?

Simit

Simply, simit is a circular sesame-crusted bread and is considered one of Istanbul's iconic food. It tastes something like an American bagel but richer, people of Istanbul cannot resist the delicious taste of freshly baked simit because a fresh simit has crispier sesame and fluffier inside so make sure to buy a fresh one for a better taste.

Simit is a daily food for professionals and drivers even fishes and birds eat old days simits During this time, simit vendors have developed it by filling it with white cheese, cream cheese, vegetables, or even Nutella chocolate, and costs between 30-40 US Cents. Live this experience at one of the best Simit Sarayi restaurants.

Fish Sandvich

The number two most popular food in Istanbul some consider it Istanbul’s classic food. If you are a fan of fish food, it is impossible to ignore this sandwich. Grilled fresh fish with onions and lettuce in freshly baked bread. Eminönü Square is the best place to eat a fish sandwich such as Yaka Balik Fish house, and it costs 3 to 4 USD

Roasted Chestnuts

Roasted chestnuts are more famous in winter months than in summer because people usually eat them to warm themselves with tasty food. Turkey is considered the third country in the world to produce chestnuts, and this fact explains how much love people have for this food. A simple hot and delicious snack that you can find almost everywhere but is famous in Sultanahmet and Taksim and costs only a few Turkish liras for a bag.

Mussels

Simple but rich with flavors, it is a normal mussel on the half shell filled with spiced rice inside and cooked slowly for hours, served immediately out of the tray with a squeeze of lemon juice. Midye is more a snack than a meal but a lot of people eat dozens of it right on the street. It’s tricky thou, the idea of Midye is to keep eating as many as the seller gives you and by the time you feel full, it's already 5 dollars to pay. So try to control your stomach. Try that out at Kaydonia Restaurant.

Kumpir

The magnificent kumpir as Turkish sellers call it. It is a baked big potato with cheese and other components that you get to choose to put on it. Ortakoy on the Bosphorus side is the most famous place to make it; once you put your foot in Ortakoy, kumpir street sellers will come out from everywhere just to buy. Do not feel afraid; walk confidently and choose the cart you like but do not miss the chance to eat a kumpir at Bosphorus company restaurant for example.

Chicken over Rice

Much simpler than it sounds, with nothing more than rice and chicken on top of it. You would imagine that such a kind of food is only served at restaurants, well think again because you are in Istanbul. In fact, Tavuk Pilav is a fast lunch for a lot of people in Istanbul because it is tasty, fast, and filling. Usually, it is served with a buttermilk drink and costs you nothing more than 3 to 4 dollars at maximum. You can find it almost everywhere but the people of Istanbul swear that there is something magical and special about the cart in front of Unkapani Market.

There is more street food that you can find while walking down the streets of beautiful Istanbul city, Börek, Lokma, Köfte Ekmek, and other street food that you, your wife, and your wallet will definitely love.

If you get tired walking around the city and ancient palaces and you decide to get some rest at one of the cafes while drinking a cup of hot Turkish tea then you should read this article.

Here are some of the most popular historical cafes in Istanbul city, where you can enjoy your drink with a touch of history.

Corlulu Ali Pasa

this building is originally a Medrese (school) that is a part of Çorlulu Ali Paşa mosque. İt was amed after the vizier Ali Paşa who came from çorlu city. The historical atmosphere of this café offer a very peaceful environment that you will definitely love it and nearly all people agree that it is the best café where to drink Sheesha or Nargila as it is called in Turkish.
visiting this place is like travelling to another planet because of its peaceful atmosphere that is away from city traffic and busy streets.

Çorlulu Ali Paşa café welcomes visitors from 7 AM to 2 AM and it is  located in Sultan Ahmet Square between the trees and green leafs and you can reach it by walking after getting off in Beyazit or Sultan Ahmet station.

Galata Konak Cafe

This café was originally a patisseries shop that was founded in 1975 by Aki family and it is considered one of the very famous shops in the old town of Istanbul because of its tasty crispy cakes and daily fresh baked patisseries.

By 2006, the new generation of the Aki family decided to turn the shop into a café and adding more options to menu.

The Galata Konak Café is actually one of the most peaceful and cosy cafes in Istanbul. It fits to 150 customers on the open terrace that looks over the historic center of Istanbul. Probably, the most interesting thing about this café is its 360 degree view that looks on Galata Tower, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia , and many other monuments.

The café open between 9 AM to 1 AM and it is located in Beyoglu District in Haci Ali Street.

As an advice, it is better to visit the café during April at night because the weather is absolutely amazing and the view is charming.

Erol Tas Cafe

Erol Taş café is one of the most iconic cafes in Istanbul. It is full of YesilCam film’s posters and pictures. This film was the most successful film in Turkey during 1950s and left a significant print in the Turkish culture.

With its wooden walls that is covered with posters and pictures of the film’s heroes and with an open terrace that is perfect for drinking a Turkish coffee with a cigarette, this café is considered one of the most popular cafes in the city. If you are a fan of the Turkish coffee then you should try one at the Erol Taş café it is very delicious and strong.

Erol Taş café welcomes its visitors from 7 AM to midnight and it is located in Cankurtan Square

Cengelkoy Cinaralti

This café is located in Çengelköy which was first inhibited durıng the 5th century. This place actually features the old life od Bosphorus and locals tend to visit this place a lot because of the really peaceful environment, especially when sitting under the tree that is estimated to be 9 hundred years old.

One of the things that are really good about this place is that you can bring any kind of food with you, sandwiches, Turkish desserts, Turkish famous Borek, or any other kind of food from your house or from the local shops around the place. All you need to take care of, is to leave your spot clean as you took it.

You can go there at any time you want because the atmosphere is absolutely amazing but as an advice, it would be better if you have your breakfast there with a hot cup of Turkish tea.

This place is open for everyone and it is located in Çengelköy that you can reach from Eminonu if you are staying in the European side of Istanbul or Uskudar if you are staying in the Asian Side.

B.C. Late 8th century and BC7. There are records that the Persians, who conquered Byzantium in the 7th century, with Jason and the Argonauts between the beginning of the 19th century, knew about the current in the Bosphorus. In fact, it is claimed that what is meant by the “Acheron River” mentioned in legends and myths is the straits and the undercurrent there.

Luigi Ferdinando Marsigli made the first scientific investigations on the Bosphorus. Marsigli, who stayed in Istanbul for 11 months, is the first scientist to measure the strength of the undercurrent in the Bosphorus. In his experiments with white-painted mushrooms, which he dipped deep with lead-weighted rope in the Bosphorus in 1680, he showed that the mushrooms were drifting north, and also took measurements of water depth and flow velocity. 

Features of the Bosphorus

The Bosphorus is defined as a 29.9 km long, narrow and highly curved waterway that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of ​​Marmara, generally extending in the northeast-southwest direction. The width of the strait decreases to 698 meters at the point where they come closest to each other. Its widest point is 3600 meters.

Strait; Late Devonian (355 million years ago) deformed sandstone carved into schist rocks. The sediments in the Bosphorus are not older than 7500 years. This refers to a process that started 7500 years ago.

Bosphorus presents a channel structure which also progresses on the continental shelf of the Black Sea on the sea floor. The curves on the iso-depth map clearly show this. In the Bosphorus; there are many shallows, a ridge, a depression and two thresholds, one at the entrance, from both the Marmara and the Black Sea sides. These thresholds are 50 meters deep and are like a natural dam (barrier) separating the Bosphorus valley from the Marmara and Black Seas. The ridge is 25-30 meters high, then splits into two branches and then disappears completely.

Since the different water bodies of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea can be located in the same place, at the same time, but at different depths in the Bosphorus, the salinity values ​​are also variable. The salinity of the Black Sea is half that of a normal sea water. For this reason, the salinity in the Bosphorus, where it is usually 17%, increases as you go deeper from the surface and rises up to 35%.

Currents in the Strait

Although the average depth in the Bosphorus is 60 meters, as you go from south to north, the depth increases and reaches 110 meters. There are a total of 12 sharp folds in the strait, whose angles can sometimes reach 45-800 degrees. There seems to be a parallelism between the two sides of the strait, with a projection on one side and an indentation on the other. However, the many bays and headlands are not evenly distributed.

There are many different current systems in the Bosphorus, such as eddies and turbulences. The narrowest and deepest parts of the strait are where the current velocity is strongest. Discharge in the throat; can be thought of as two separate rivers flowing in one bed, but in different directions. The water flowing from the surface is Black Sea, the deep flowing water is Mediterranean. Upper and lower currents; are very different from each other in terms of temperature, salinity and density. There is also a turbulent interlayer between these currents. While this turbulent interlayer is 10 meters thick in the Marmara Sea, it is only 2 meters at the Black Sea entrance. In addition, the indented and protruding shores of the Bosphorus can also cause countercurrent currents in the surface current. In such cases, the upper and lower currents mix together to form eddies.

What Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Includes

Whether if you are a tourist from local or international, if you decided to join the Bosphorus dinner cruise, the only thing you will get will not a simple beautiful view. Delicious authentic Turkish dinner will be just a start for you to enjoy your entertaining tourist attraction. After Gypsy and Caucasian dances you will also watch belly dance performances which are unique and popular in the world. Other different aspects of Turkish culture such as traditional henna ceremony and Turkish folk dance are also in the programme of the Bosphorus dinner cruise. Then, with live DJ performance you can get groove on in the relaxing Bosphorus atmosphere. By the Istanbul Tourist Pass privileges, you can have all of these with a discount of %50.

Istanbul is no different. Nowadays, the city offers several fascinating locations to visit if you’re looking for a wonderful juicy steak cooked to your specifications. I’ve selected 12 of the finest steakhouses in Istanbul based on feedback from locals and tourists. They are, in my opinion, worth visiting for two reasons: first, to sample excellent steaks, and second, to appreciate magnificent vistas and share them on social media. 

Nusr-et

If you are in Istanbul, I recommend that you start with Nusr-Et steakhouses. Because their steaks are worth a try, and they are extremely popular in Turkey and across the globe. It is, I believe, not just on my bucket list, but also on the bucket lists of many other visitors visiting Istanbul. Someone may even get fortunate and catch the proprietor of the Nusr-Et eateries, Salt Bae, and take a picture with him, which occurs fairly often. 

Returning to the steaks, after you’ve had them at Nusr-Et in Istanbul, you’ll understand why these restaurants are so popular among both tourists and locals. This restaurant’s success stems from its excellent service and generous servings. However, I should caution you about the costs, which are more than usual for other steak restaurants in Istanbul. 

Restaurant Beso

If you’re looking for a spot to have a delicious steak in Istanbul at a fair affordable price and locate a typical Instagram setting for taking colorful pictures, I’d suggest Beso Restaurant Bistro. Beso Restaurant Bistro is an exceptional establishment with a one-of-a-kind eclectic design — a fusion of loft and classic style components. 

Again, if you are visiting Istanbul for a few days and want to wander about the Sultanahmet area, this hotel is perfect since it is within walking distance to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Overall, I would recommend this restaurant to young/student visitors who are as free-spirited as the restaurant’s decor. 

Virginia-angus Burger

If you choose, you may have a good American steak in a pleasant environment not far from Süleymaniye Mosque, Spice Bazaar, and Eminönü Station. This restaurant has three locations: Nişantaşi, Ataşehir, and Mercan (Eminönü). 

The Virginia Angus Mercan branch is extremely popular with the locals, and there is always a line. Because the steakhouse is tiny, I recommend that you pick a table inside if possible, so that you are not bothered by passing guests or servers. Although the pricing is low, the meat quality is excellent since they utilize their own specifically bred Angus beef for the meals. 

Butcha Steakhouse

People who like the ambiance of a contemporary metropolis should go to Butcha Steakhouse, which is situated in the commercial district of Levent metro station, near the zdilek, Metrocity, and Kanyon shopping malls. It is also close to the Ortaköy neighborhood, where you can enjoy breathtaking nighttime views of the Hagia Sophia Mosque and the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, commonly known as the Bosphorus Bridge. 

The cost of steaks and other meat dishes is fair and appropriate for Istanbul. Along with the food, I am drawn to the Butcha Steakhouse’s location, which seems to be handy for shopping in Istanbul.

Cloud 34

From its large window, Cloud 34 offers a stunning view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. In the evenings, there is live music where you may enjoy your meal. Cloud 34 is also a good place to spend New Year’s Eve and other special occasions. Although it is a bit pricey, the cocktails, bar, cuisine, and service are all five stars at this restaurant. It is advised to try the lobster truffle roll. Some types of sushi are restricted on the menu, so you may not locate your favorite roll species. However, it is worthwhile to experience the ideal atmosphere and Bosphorus view. It is also at an easily accessible location. They offer a nice selection of beverages to go with your sushi. 

Kiss The Frog Restaurant

It is a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers both Italian and Japanese cuisine in Istanbul. Kebaps and Mediterranean cuisine are also available. The restaurant is open from 12 p.m. until 2 a.m. They also enjoy a wonderful view of the Bosphorus and the second bridge from the sea. In terms of Asian cuisine, the restaurant menu is restricted to certain sushi varieties and fresh fish, although they are among the finest in the city. Your Istanbul trip is never done without a good meal! The service is excellent, and the food is always fresh and of great quality. You may choose to sit outdoors in nicer weather conditions, where you will find a more tranquil environment. 

Zuma

Zuma is an exquisite Japanese restaurant with a beautiful ambience and excellent Japanese cuisine and Sushi. Sushi Bar and the Robata Grill are located apart from the Open Kitchen. In this unique restaurant with beautiful music and décor, you will experience the finest of Japanese culinary culture when you visit Istanbul. On weekends, it may get more busy, so make a reservation before you go. Cocktails, sweets, and whiskey are all suggested to try in addition to Sushi. Delicious dishes include spicy beef tenderloin, salmon teriyaki, nigiri sushi, and maki rolls. 

Inari Omokase

It offers a beautiful Bosphorus view, attentive personnel, excellent service, and somewhat expensive pricing. You may taste corn tempura, fried popcorn, shrimp, and black garlic prawns. The restaurant is usually full, so make a reservation before going. Hot rolls are also among the most popular kinds of sushi. Ordering salmon sashimi will demonstrate that the fish is always fresh. It may become a little packed around lunch and supper. Nonetheless, the atmosphere and interior design are soothing. When it comes to sushi, the spicy salmon rolls and truffle salmon maki are the most popular and tasty options. Many sushi establishments have tiny tables, however they are compensated for by excellent cuisine.

Apart from history and culture, Istanbul offers the top luxury restaurants for your taste, too!

Kadikoy, on the Asian side of the Bosphorus, is another excellent place to spend an evening. You might easily spend the night hopping from one place to the next, thanks to the many small bars, pubs, cafés, and restaurants. We’ve compiled a list of the finest bars in Istanbul for you to enjoy with your family or friends. 

Cukurcuma 49

Cihangir, located near Taksim Square and including smaller districts such as ukurcuma, is a gentrified and now high-end area of Istanbul. In places like Cukurcuma 49, a pub and café with bare brick walls and a wine cellar, these alleys in ancient sections of town give off a bohemian vibe. The thin-crust pizza is to die for, and the wines, which are specifically produced on the Aegean island of Bozcaada, match wonderfully. The cuisine is made with fresh ingredients, and the music and drinks are flowing late into the evening. Stop in for a dinner or a drink of wine or beer at Cukurcuma 49, and stay for the lovely environment. 

Karga Bar

Karga is a five-story Ottoman house with a vintage feel. Grab a drink and take a stroll around the several levels, which include brick walls, snug nooks, and antique décor. The house has a performance stage as well as an art café and bar. Expect a diverse selection of music, ranging from rock classics to Belgian pop! 

Viktor Levi Winehouse

Do you want to treat yourself to something special? The way to go is to have a romantic supper at an old winery. The Viktor Levi Sarap Evi is an Ottoman house with lovely timber tones that create the atmosphere and let you enjoy the wine even more. You may order excellent wines from their cellar in addition to a complete bar menu. 

Zeplin Pub

Zeplin is a European-style hotel in the heart of Anatolia (Asian side of Istanbul) This is a great spot for live music, traditional pub fare, and a wide selection of beers. On weekends, don’t be shocked if you notice a group of people hanging around at the entrance; alternatively, you may join in and do the same. 

Litera

Beyoglu, one of Istanbul’s hippest and most exciting districts, is hidden away at the end of Istiklal Street, just far enough away from the city center’s tourist traps to retain its own unique appeal and atmosphere. Litera is a pub on the fifth level of Taksim’s Goethe Institute, with views of the ancient city and the Bosphorus below. 

The neighborhood streets are lined with nightclubs, grunge bars, charming jazz, and shisha cafés, all contributing to Istanbul’s diverse culture. After hours, walk the streets of Istanbul and you’ll witness a new side of the city come alive, with people dancing and drinking with one other regardless of where they reside. So grab a drink and come hang out with them!

On a romantic dinner date, here’s our selection of must-visit eateries. Let’s just go right to our choices, shall we? 

Agora Meyhanesi

The tavern tradition is well-known in Greco-Turkish culture, and you should certainly participate in it. The south of Turkey, near the Mediterranean shore, is often the greatest location to have this experience. Fortunately for us all, Istanbul also offers extremely genuine choices. Without a doubt, Agora Meyhanesi 1890 is one of the most popular. 

This bar was founded in 1890 by a captain named Asteri Dulidis, who was of Greek descent. Agora, by the way, is Greek for square. This location is in Balat, a historically significant area along the Halic (Golden Horn) shoreline. What appeals to me the most about Agora Meyhanesi is its nostalgic design, which transports you to a century ago. The walls are bricks, the lighting is low due to the use of gas lamps, and the windows are baroque in design. And there are barrels aplenty! 

Mikla Restaurant

If you’re searching for an excellent fine-dining alternative, Mikla Restaurant is the place to go. The New York Times describes it as “forward thinking yet profoundly entrenched and above all tasty.” The restaurant is located on the top of the Marmara Pera Hotel in Taksim’s Asmalmescit neighborhood. It offers one of the Istanbul’s most spectacular views. Not only is the food delicious, but you also get a panoramic view of the city. 

Lokanta 1741

Lokanta 1741 is an old Turkish Bath that dates back 300 years. The juxtaposition of Ottoman heritage with Ottoman food is unquestionably unique. If you’re searching for a romantic environment where you may sample the city’s historicity, culture, and local cuisine, this is the spot for you. As it was converted from a historical entity, the whole area has a fascinating and compelling historical atmosphere. Both indoor and outdoor eating areas are available at the restaurant. The latter is particularly appealing since it offers a spectacular perspective of the ancient town. 

1924 Istanbul

1924 Istanbul, founded by Russians fleeing the Bolshevik revolution 80 years earlier, has housed notable figures like as Atatürk and Agatha Christie. In fact, since Atatürk was a regular, the restaurant has a table allocated for him in perpetuity. This is the spot for you if your idea of a romantic meal includes a sophisticated ambiance, some excellent classical music, Russian delicacies, lavishness found in simplicity, and a sense of nostalgia. Prepare to go across time! 

This restaurant is in Taksim, on a secluded nook away from the bustling Istiklal Street. The staff is very kind and accommodating.

Turkish coffee is almost always served with a glass of water and Turkish delight, which cleans the palate and turns the aftertaste into something bittersweet. Sade (no sugar), orta şekerli (medium), or çok şekerli (very sweet), Turkish coffee is almost always served with a glass of water and Turkish delight, which cleans the palate and turns the aftertaste into something bittersweet. The presence of froth in your fincan (the small cup in which Turkish coffee is served) indicates that the coffee has been properly prepared. It should be consumed in tiny sips so that the grounds settle at the bottom of the cup and may be read to reveal your fate. 

Bebek Kahve

Bebek Kahve is a beautiful coffee shop in Bebek, near the European shore of Boshorus. Bebek Kahve has been in business for almost 65 years. People like to stroll or jog along Bebek’s beachfront promenade, then stop for a break and a cup of tea or Turkish coffee while admiring the spectacular views of the Bosphorus from the Bebek Kahve. 

Pierre Loti Hill Cafe

Pierre Loti Hill is a wonderful leisure and tourism destination with a magnificent open-air café overlooking the Golden Horn. The hill rises to a height of approximately 55 meters above sea level. The hill, which has the name of a renowned French writer and traveler who resided in Istanbul and spent the most of his time here, is reached by a pleasant cable car ride. The hill is a famous location for getting excellent pictures of Istanbul’s finest vistas. There are seven ancient houses that have been converted into a boutique hotel, a magnificent restaurant, a hookah café, and the well-known Pierre Loti Hill Cafe and Shop, which offers stunning views of the Golden Horn. On the hill’s slopes, there’s also a large cemetery. You may unwind while sipping Turkish coffee or tea, or dine at the Pierre Loti Cafe, which is accessible to the public. 

Mandabatmaz

Mandabatmaz is a well-known café on Istanbul’s renowned Istiklal Street, known for its Turkish coffee. Mandabatmaz provides a fantastic Turkish coffee experience that even non-coffee drinkers would enjoy. It’s a wonderful pleasure to sit in a small chair and table and take in the calm ambiance of Istiklal Street. On their way down Istiklal Street, locals like to stop and rest here. 

Bonus: Okkali Kahve

Okkali Kahve is a favorite hangout for Besiktas residents. Okkali Kahve serves a range of Turkish coffee flavors, including dibek (special), light, smooth, and gum mastic, with carrot cake and tiramisu. On the street tables, you may enjoy your Turkish coffee and Turkish pleasure while observing the bustling people and bustling neighborhood life. 

During your stay to Istanbul, there are many locations where you may enjoy the finest and most authentic Turkish coffee, but we wanted to offer you a brief overview of some of them. If you pick a coffee shop near the Bosphorus, you may enjoy your coffee with your loved ones while overlooking the Bosphorus and the sea. Make sure you buy the appropriate coffee for you, however. You may wish to add extra sugar to Turkish coffee since it is thicker than other coffees.

Lokanta 1741

Combination of history and culture with unique flavors in Fatih. 1741 Lokanta takes all its guests on an enticing traditional journey by adding flavor to the magical atmosphere of Cağaloğlu Hamam, dating back to 300 years of history and culture. Every flavor that comes out of the skillful hands of the experienced chefs of 1741 brings a different texture, a different region, and a different taste to Turkish cuisine. In the dinner menu of Lokanta 1741, which also offers lunch service, exceptional tastes decorated with the contemporary touches of 1741 await you, and appetizers and olive oil dishes unique to traditional Turkish cuisine. 

Pandeli

Existing since the First World War in Fatih. Pandeli, included in all domestic and foreign tourist guides and on the lines of travelers, adds the title of Turkey’s first tourism-certified restaurant to its deserved reputation. Since the restaurant on Yağcılar Pier was demolished during urban planning in 1958, Pandeli Restaurant at the entrance of the Spice Bazaar has been the sole representative of the tradition in Eminönü since then. 

Pandeli Restaurant has hosted essential people such as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Queen Elizabeth II, Audrey Hepburn, and Juan Carlos until today, making you feel the spirit of old Istanbul as soon as you enter and deepening this feeling with its menu. It is one of the best luxury places you can visit in Istanbul.

The Steeve by Ismet Saz

Mixed flavors from the world and Turkish cuisine in Beşiktaş. When you see the menu led by the famous chef İsmet Saz, it is a place where you can taste the right flavor for yourself, whatever your taste. So before you start everything, we recommend you to drink Kars Gruyere Onion Soup, then sip your preferred beverage with Artichoke and Spinach Dipped Tortilla. In addition, the waiters are doing their best to guide you with excellent service, speed, and everything to have a great night. 

Laledan Restaurant in Çırağan Palace Kempiski 

The place that has witnessed history from the 17th century to the present, in Beşiktaş. Laledan Restaurant, which will add joy to your day with its unique view and peaceful atmosphere, has rich and healthy products. You will have a fantastic experience with rich breakfast dishes ranging from gluten-free and lactose-free flavors to a vast salad buffet, from fresh delicatessen products to carefully selected cheeses. You are invited to experience the pleasure of a fantastic buffet breakfast at Laledan Restaurant, which has a magnificent location with its historical gate and Bosphorus view. Also, It is one of the leading gourmet places in Istanbul.

Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine

Luxury place in a former 19th-century hospital building with stylish rooms and suites and a restaurant in Fatih. Welcome to Istanbul’s most beautiful luxury places and dining experience, providing you with a selection of unique dishes once served at the Ottoman Palaces. This gourmet place is located in the heart of the old city in Istanbul and surrounded by all the prominent historical and cultural sights, “Matbah” presents the one-time traditional flavors of the royal Ottoman cuisine in the ease of a colorful ambiance, the Ottoman grandeur, and Turkish hospitality.

Mikla in the Marmara Pera Hotel

A contemporary “Istanbulian” restaurant with a Michelin Star, in Beyoglu. With the “New Anatolian Cuisine” concept created in August 2012, Mikla added another plus to its mission of quality food and succeeded in raising the pioneering bar it holds on the local and international platforms. In Mikla, which defends the belief that every material used reflects the traditions of that land and people at its core, “usually modest” but “noble” materials carefully selected from every corner of Anatolia are interpreted with great respect.

St. Regis Brasserie

The chic and decent atmosphere as well as gastronomic excellence approach: in Nişantaşı. St. Regis Brasserie, under the management of award-winning chef Mehmet Faruk Yardimci, and its unique flavors blending Turkish and World cuisines, as well as world-famous St. Regis, invites its guests to a gastronomic adventure in the heart of Nişantaşı, accompanied by rituals. Enjoy seasonal menus prepared with creative touches from the freshest produce.

Neolokal

You will find a piece of your life in each of the flavors in Karakoy. The Neolokal team aims to design honest food inspired by mother earth, take an example from its traditions, and present it to its guests. While doing this, it examines traditional recipes in fine detail. Then, it blends them with products on the verge of extinction because they are not consumed. Chief of the young and curious team, Makkut Aşkar, says, “If we don’t take care of it, the next generation will have nothing left.” It creates a refined and new perception by combining local cuisine with modern techniques and an innovative perspective. 

Safran Restaurant

Delicious and authentic food meets magnificent views in Beyoglu. Safran Restaurant, recognized internationally with the ‘Academie Internationale de la Gastronomie award, offers the best Turkish and Ottoman cuisine examples in an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. You can enjoy the live episode between 19:00-22:00 while enhancing the taste of this unique cuisine on its terrace with a magnificent view overlooking the Bosphorus, palaces, and mosques.

34 Restaurant in Grand Hyatt İstanbul

A relaxing atmosphere in Şişli. Serving a wide range of cuisines, 34 Restaurants offer tastes from regional and Mediterranean cuisine. Guests can join the chef’s table or enjoy marinated grilled or slow-cooked delicacies at Smoke House. In addition, the Deli & Cheese room offers more than 30 types of cheese, charcuterie, and appetizers. Delicious pastries and desserts are served at the Patisserie, and guests can enjoy freshly baked goods.

Calipso Fish

One of the best fish restaurants in Maltepe in Istanbul. With its rich menu, quality service, and location in the heart of the city, in the greenery of the Bostancı-Küçükyalı beach, Calypso Fish offers the great tastes of the Aegean. This place is awarded the “Oscars of Gastronomy,” which offers delicious seafood. Since all the appetizers are delicious, we recommend trying them all in small quantities.