This is a personal, opinionated list, written in May 2026 with current prices. For each place I have noted the view, what a drink or a meal actually costs, the best time to turn up, and most usefully, who it is genuinely for. The roof that suits a first date is not the one I would send a family with kids. Where a spot is overrated, I say so. My shortlist of the best rooftop restaurants istanbul offers, spread across both shores, is below.

Last updated: May 2026. All prices are tagged by month. Istanbul’s restaurant prices move fast, so treat them as a guide, not gospel. Most rooftop venues run April to October; many close or move indoors in winter.

Before you go up: three things I wish someone had told me

First, the view costs money. You are paying a premium for the altitude, so a beer that is 120 TL at street level becomes 250 TL with a Bosphorus in front of it. Work out what you came for: if it is the view rather than the drink, one round is often enough. Second, book for sunset. The window from about an hour before sundown to blue hour is when these places are at their best and fill up. Walk-ins at 8 PM in June will be turned away from the good tables.

Third, dress matters at the smart ones. The hotel rooftops enforce a smart-casual code with no beach shorts and no flip-flops, while the scruffier Beyoğlu and Karaköy roofs do not care. I will flag which is which. And a practical note on alcohol: Turkey taxes it heavily, so wine and spirits are the expensive part of any bill here. The food is usually the better value.

The best rooftops for the Bosphorus and old-city view

1. Mikla: the benchmark, and still worth it

On top of the Marmara Pera hotel, Mikla is the rooftop that every other one in the city is quietly measured against. Chef Mehmet Gürs’s ‘new Anatolian’ tasting menu is genuinely one of the best meals in Istanbul, and the open-air bar wraps around a 360-degree view that takes in the Golden Horn, the old city, and the Galata Tower almost close enough to touch.

The view is panoramic, arguably the most complete in the city. The tasting menu runs about 5,500 to 7,000 TL per person (≈ $170–215 USD, May 2026), and a cocktail at the bar is around 600 to 750 TL. Arrive at the bar 90 minutes before sunset for a rail spot, then move to dinner. It is perfect for a special occasion, a serious food night, or anyone who wants the definitive Istanbul rooftop and will pay for it. Reserve well ahead via the Mikla official site.

A word of honesty, since this list isn’t a press release: you can have a wonderful evening here on a single drink at the bar without committing to the tasting menu. On a clear night, that is exactly what I would do with a visitor who wants the view but not the four-figure bill. Sit on the western rail, order one well-made cocktail, and watch the sun drop behind Süleymaniye. The staff will not rush you, and you will have spent the price of a museum ticket for the best skyline seat in the city.

2. 16 Roof at the Raffles: polished and Bosphorus-facing

Up in Beşiktaş, on the 16th floor of the Raffles inside the Zorlu Center, 16 Roof points straight at the Bosphorus Bridge and the Asian shore. It is slick, international, and DJ-driven later in the evening, feeling more like a glamorous night out than a quiet dinner. The cocktails are excellent and properly made.

The view features the first Bosphorus Bridge, lit up and head-on. Cocktails cost 550 to 700 TL, and small plates are 400 to 600 TL (May 2026). Go at sunset for the view, or after 10 PM for the scene. It is ideal for a dressed-up night out, couples, or anyone who wants a Bosphorus backdrop with a soundtrack. Smart-casual dress is enforced.

3. Ulus 29: the classic Bosphorus dinner with the whole city below

Perched on the hillside at Ulus, above the European shore, 29 has been the address for a grown-up Bosphorus dinner for decades. The terrace looks down over both bridges and the water, and the kitchen does refined Turkish and Mediterranean cooking. It is not cheap and not trying to be.

The view offers a wide sweep over both Bosphorus bridges from up the hill. Mains cost 900 to 1,500 TL, so expect 2,500 to 4,000 TL per person with wine (≈ $77–123 USD, May 2026). Plan for dinner at sunset; the lights come on as you eat. It is best for a celebration, a proposal, or parents you want to impress. You will want a taxi up. See our Beşiktaş and Ortaköy neighbourhood guide for the lay of the land.

The best rooftops in Karaköy and Galata

4. Nova Restaurant: the Galata Tower in your face

Tucked above Serdar-ı Ekrem street in Galata, this terrace frames the Galata Tower so closely it feels staged. It is smaller and less corporate than the hotel roofs, the food is solid modern Turkish, and the tower lighting up at dusk is the kind of thing that makes a table go quiet.

The view includes the Galata Tower at almost arm’s reach, plus a slice of the Golden Horn. Mains cost 500 to 800 TL, and a glass of wine is 350 to 450 TL (May 2026). Arrive just before sunset so you catch the tower going from gold to floodlit. It is great for couples and small groups who want the Galata postcard without a hotel price tag. It pairs well with our Galata Tower and surroundings walking route.

5. The roof bars of the Karaköy hotels: reliable and central

Karaköy has quietly become the best district for a roof drink, with a cluster of design-hotel terraces looking across the Golden Horn to the old city. They change names and management often, so I will not tie you to one, but the strip around Bankalar Caddesi and the waterfront reliably delivers a terrace, a Negroni, and that skyline of minarets at blue hour.

The view features the old-city skyline across the water, highlighting Süleymaniye and the Galata Bridge. Cocktails run 400 to 600 TL (May 2026). The best time is blue hour, when the mosques are lit and the ferries criss-cross below. It is perfect for a pre-dinner drink, a relaxed date, or photographers. Karaköy is a 10-minute walk from the Galata Bridge; find the area on Google Maps.

The best rooftops in Sultanahmet (for the monuments)

6. Seven Hills Restaurant: Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque at once

This is the Sultanahmet rooftop people mean when they say they want to eat with a view of Hagia Sophia. From the terrace you get the dome of Hagia Sophia on one side and the six minarets of the Blue Mosque on the other, with the Sea of Marmara behind. The food is tourist-standard Turkish, fine but not memorable, but you are emphatically here for the panorama.

The view frames Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque together, making it the rare spot you get both. Mains are 450 to 750 TL, and a breakfast spread is about 600 TL per person (May 2026). Breakfast offers soft light and quiet, while sunset brings the call to prayer rising between the two monuments. It is best for first-time visitors, anyone staying in the old city, and photographers. Plan the area around it with our complete Sultanahmet area guide.

7. A hotel terrace for the call to prayer

Several small hotels around Sultanahmet open their roofs to non-guests for tea and a light bite, and the experience that justifies them is sound, not food. Being up among the rooftops when the ezan (eh-ZAHN, call to prayer) rises from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia at sunset, and the muezzins answer each other across the square, is unforgettable. It is the most Istanbul thing you can do for the price of a pot of tea.

The view shows the old-city domes and minarets at close range. Tea costs 80 to 150 TL, and a glass of wine where served is 300 to 400 TL (May 2026). Time your visit for the sunset call to prayer; check the day’s ezan time, which shifts with the season. It is great for travellers on a budget, solo visitors, and anyone who wants atmosphere over a meal. For a fuller sit-down with the same skyline, our Istanbul sunset spots guide maps the alternatives.

The best rooftops on the Asian side (where the locals go)

8. A Kadıköy roof bar: younger, cheaper, no tourists

Cross to Kadıköy and the rooftop scene loosens its collar entirely. The bars above Moda and around the Kadıköy market are where Istanbul’s twenty- and thirty-somethings actually drink. You will find craft beer, decent wine by the glass, a view back across the water to the European skyline, and prices a third lower than anything on the other shore. There is no dress code and no attitude.

The view presents the historic peninsula and Bosphorus mouth from the Asian shore, showing the city looking its best from a distance. Craft beer is 180 to 260 TL, and wine is 250 to 350 TL (May 2026). Sunset is the best time, when the light hits the European side and turns the domes gold. It is meant for independent travellers, anyone tired of tourist pricing, and people who want a real local night. Our Kadıköy waterfront and market guide maps the area.

This is my own default. On a Friday after work I would rather take the ferry over from Karaköy, a 20-minute ride that is itself half the pleasure with gulls overhead and tea from the on-board çaycı (tea seller), and drink on a Moda roof watching the European side light up than fight for a table on the smart shore. You trade the close-up monuments for distance and breathing room, and most evenings that is the better deal.

9. A Çamlıca café terrace: the highest view in the city

Up on Büyük Çamlıca Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, the Ottoman-style café terraces give you the whole city laid out. You can see both straits, all the bridges, and both shores over a pot of tea and a gözleme (gurz-leh-MEH, stuffed flatbread). It is alcohol-free, family-run in feel, and the most economical big view in town.

The view is the entire city, offering the broadest panorama anywhere in Istanbul. Tea is 60 to 100 TL, and gözleme is 150 to 220 TL (May 2026). Late afternoon into sunset is best, but bring a layer as it is breezy up top. It is suited for families, non-drinkers, and anyone chasing the single biggest view. It requires a taxi up from Üsküdar; pin Büyük Çamlıca Hill on Google Maps so the driver takes you to the summit terraces, not the mosque car park.

Quick comparison: which rooftop for which night

Spends are rough per-person guides verified May 2026, excluding heavy drinking. Alcohol is the costly part of any bill in Turkey.

Rooftop etiquette and practical notes

• Reserve for sunset everywhere: The golden-hour-to-blue-hour window fills first. For the hotel roofs, book two or three days ahead in summer.

• Tipping: Around 10% is normal and often not included. Check the bill for a servis (service) line before you add more.

• Bring a light layer: Even in summer, terraces by the water get a real breeze after dark, and Çamlıca and the hilltop spots are cooler still.

• Dress codes: Smart-casual is required at the hotel roofs like Mikla, 16 Roof, and Ulus 29, meaning no shorts or flip-flops for men in the evening. Karaköy, Galata, and Kadıköy are relaxed.

• Alcohol-free options are easy: Every venue does excellent tea, Turkish coffee, ayran (salted yogurt drink), and fresh juices, so a non-drinking member of the group is never stuck.

• Winter schedules: Many open-air roofs close or glass in from November to March. Always call ahead off-season.

My honest one-line picks

• Best overall: Mikla.

• Best view for the money: A Kadıköy roof bar.

• Best for a proposal: Ulus 29.

• Best for first-timers: Seven Hills, for Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque together.

• Best free-ish thrill: A Sultanahmet hotel terrace at the sunset call to prayer.

Pairing a rooftop with the rest of your evening

The smartest move is to treat the roof as the opener, not the whole night. Have your sunset drink up high, Karaköy or Galata are ideal for this, then come down to street level for dinner where the food is better and cheaper. Karaköy and Beyoğlu both have meyhane (traditional tavern) streets a short walk from the rooftops, where rakı and a table of meze cost a fraction of a rooftop dinner.

If you are planning a longer trip and stringing several daytime sights together before your evening drinks, looking into an Istanbul Tourist Pass can save you both time and money. It bundles guided museum entries, top attractions, and even Bosphorus cruises into a single digital card, giving you a hassle-free day and leaving you more budget for that sunset cocktail.

If you would rather take the view onto the water itself, a sunset Bosphorus cruise gives you the same skyline from below. Our Bosphorus cruise comparison sorts the public ferries from the private boats. For a full evening of eating rather than one grand dinner, the crawl in our Istanbul street food guide is the cheaper, tastier counterpoint to a rooftop bill.

One last thought after years of this: the best rooftop restaurants istanbul has are not always the most expensive ones, and the view does not improve with the size of the bill. A 220 TL beer on a Kadıköy roof and a 7,000 TL dinner at Mikla look at versions of the same skyline. What changes is the food, the polish, and the crowd. Match the place to the night you actually want, and you will never overpay for altitude again.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best rooftop bar in Istanbul?

For the complete package of view, drinks, and food, Mikla on top of the Marmara Pera in Beyoğlu is the benchmark, with a 360-degree panorama of the old city and Golden Horn. For the same skyline at a third of the price, the rooftop bars in Kadıköy on the Asian side are the local favourite.

Which rooftop has the best view of Hagia Sophia?

Seven Hills Restaurant in Sultanahmet is the spot that frames Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque together, with the Sea of Marmara behind. The food is ordinary, but no other terrace lines up both monuments so neatly, making it perfect for breakfast or sunset.

How much does a rooftop drink cost in Istanbul?

Expect 400 to 700 TL for a cocktail at a hotel rooftop in 2026, and 180 to 350 TL for a beer or glass of wine at the more relaxed Karaköy, Galata, and Kadıköy roofs. Alcohol is heavily taxed in Turkey, making it the priciest part of any bill.

Do I need to book a rooftop restaurant in Istanbul?

For dinner and for sunset, yes. Book two or three days ahead in summer, especially at Mikla, Ulus 29, and 16 Roof. The casual bars in Karaköy and Kadıköy usually take walk-ins, but the prime sunset tables still go early.

When is the best time to go to a rooftop in Istanbul?

The hour before sunset into blue hour is the sweet spot, when the light is golden and the city lights come on. Arrive about 90 minutes before sundown to claim a rail-side table, particularly between May and September.

Are Istanbul rooftops open in winter?

Many open-air terraces close or glass themselves in from November through March. The hotel rooftops with enclosed sections stay open year-round, but for the full open-air experience, plan your visit between April and October.

Where do locals go for a rooftop drink?

Kadıköy and Moda on the Asian side, and the design-hotel roofs in Karaköy, are where Istanbul residents actually drink. These spots are younger, cheaper, have no dress code, and offer a clean view back to the historic skyline across the water.

Useful Turkish for a night out

• meyhane (may-HAH-neh) : a traditional tavern serving meze and rakı, the classic Istanbul night out

• rakı (rah-KUH) : anise-flavoured spirit, the national drink, taken with water and meze

• meze (meh-ZEH) : small shared plates served before or instead of a main

• şerefe (sheh-reh-FEH) : cheers! (what you say when glasses are raised)

• hesap, lütfen (heh-SAHP loot-FEN) : the bill, please (your end-of-night phrase)

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.

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.

For centuries, Istanbul has been the crossroads of the East-West coffee trade. Coffee shops are more popular than ever in Istanbul, where they have spread like wildfire. A harried business traveler seldom needs to worry about finding a cup of coffee. This is due to the fact that a coffee shop can be found on almost every street corner. 

The finest coffee, according to true coffee connoisseurs, can be found in tiny local cafés where each cup is carefully prepared. These businesses are often hidden away in areas outside of a city’s financial center, making them difficult to find for a business visitor. 

For business travelers who are tired of the same four hotel walls, we recommend independent coffee shops in Istanbul. Coffee shops are an excellent way to learn about the local geography and culture. 

The following are some of Istanbul’s best coffee cafes. The list of coffee shops has expanded as a result of visitor recommendations and will be updated on a regular basis. 

Fazil Bey Turkish Coffee House

One of the bazaar’s oldest shops is attempting to establish a network of outlets throughout Istanbul to disseminate the aroma of its own coffee. Come in for a cup of Turkish coffee and Turkish pleasure, as well as a glass of cold water served on a metal tray. 

The House Cafe

The House Café is a trendy coffee shop franchise in Istanbul. This stylish café has sites in Ortakoy, Tunel, and Nisantasi, among others. Autobahn, a trendy design company, has stylized them all. My favorite is the original at Nisanstisi on the Bosphorus coastline, which has a hidden entrance, tables strewn around, and a lovely garden. 

Barnie’s Coffe Co

Barnie’s Gourmet Coffee & Tea Company has evolved to become America’s biggest privately held gourmet coffee and tea supplier in the last two decades. With a wide variety of Flavored, Decaffeinated, Light, Medium, and Dark Roasts, Barnie’s Coffee provides the world’s best hand chosen gourmet coffee beans. 

Simdi Cafe

Simdi (Now) is a stylish, peaceful café located on the first floor of a fashionable old Pera building. The room is well designed and much more soothing than coffee in Markiz Passage. It’s a great location to go if you want to relax and meet some local intellectuals. The coffees and fresh juices are wonderful, especially when accompanied by a slice of delectable Orange cake. Simdi is located among the side alleys of Beyoglu. 

Java Studio Istanbul

There’s a coffee shop and an art gallery here. Enjoy some of Istanbul’s best coffees, teas, and other refreshments. In their international Bakery, sample fresh delights prepared from genuine recipes. View beautiful paintings by famous local artists and shop for high-quality Turkish handicrafts in a peaceful, pleasant setting with educated and friendly personnel. Jennifer Gaudet, a Canadian, established Java Studio and has built an atmosphere out of a disused carpet store on a side street in Sultanahmet that seems like home even if you’re half a globe away. 

In Istanbul, there are many excellent coffee shops and cafes, as well as fantastic restaurants and famous attractions. While in Istanbul, be sure to try Turkish coffee at least once.

Located on the European side of the Bosphorus in Arnavutkoy district which is one of the most lovely districts in Istanbul with wooden houses and the beautiful view of the Bosphorus in front. You will find there a lot of beautiful luxury restaurants like Sur Balik where you can enjoy tasty seafood and drinks, amazing view, and calm atmosphere. Sur Balik offers both classic and unusual seafood dishes in addition to wide choices of mezes, all of its fish and seafood are seasonal and fresh, and the wine collection is excellent there.
Make sure to bring a fat wallet with you, it is going to cost you extra dollars.

2- Rumelihisari Iskele:

One of the most famous restaurants at all. Located in Sariyer right on the Bosphorus and has been serving customers since 1992 this is why it has such a good reputation. At Rumelihisari Iskele you can have a delicious seasonal fish dish in a calm relaxing atmosphere and lovely view of the Bosphorus second bridge. The service at this restaurant is always rated 5 stars.

3- Uskumru:

An exceptional restaurants that can be reached by boat, you can have your meal in the sea and literally touch the water with your feet. The appetizers there are superb and creative, sea bass with basil, walnuts, squid a la plancha and many other appetizers and of course the seafood is seasonal so make sure to go there between may and october at the day time for an experience.
And a fat wallet also..

4- Balikci Kahraman:

It is a family run restaurant named after its owner, it serves Black Sea fish and seafood and the mezes there with the lovely atmosphere are what make it a successful restaurant. Kahraman restaurant is the preferred restaurant for celebrities because it is far from the city center, calm and serve great grilled fish dishes.

While if you are looking for cheaper restaurants with same tasty seafood, you can visit one of the following restaurants:

5- Tarihi Karaköy Balikçisi:

Its name explains how old this restaurant is Tarihi ( Historical ) Karaköy Balikcisi has been serving since 1923. From that time until now, nothing has ever changed in its service or great food. You won’t have a great view, and the restaurant is a little bit small but you will definitely have the most delicious fresh fish meal you ever tried in your life.

6- Ahirkapi Balikçisi:

It is the restaurant where you can avoid paying much money but still in the middle of old SultanAhmet city. You can call it a secret dining that serve fresh fish from a simple menu to local people. When visiting Ahirkapi you will find yourself between loyal citizens drinking raki with a smile on their faces. Small, local,  and serve delicious seafood.

7- Kiyi:

Located on Büyükada, the biggest one of princess islands. With an enormous menu of everyday fresh seafood and fish, Kiyi is considered the best seafood restaurant on Büyükada island. The meze that Kiyi serves is unusual and always fresh, especially green salad. Try to go there during the summer months and day time you will have a great time, and it is not expensive too.

It is important to know that depending on the season, the prices of seafood and fish is variable but always have the same amazing delicious taste, because you are in Istanbul.