Although recipes differ from area to region, one thing unites them all: fresh excellent meat, whether boiled, stewed, fried, smoked, or grilled. It’s also no surprise that the steak recipe, which originated in England, was warmly received and appreciated by the Turkish people. 

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.