Foodies gather! We will get you to the foodie heaven, where you can find a diverse menu and limitless options in Istanbul. Istanbul is a city known for different reasons, but the food culture is definitely at the top of the list. You can see various restaurants with diverse cuisine even on one street. But it is always hard to find the best restaurants and foods in Istanbul.
The diversity of Istanbul has 2 main reasons. One of them is Istanbul which is a multicultural city with a high number of international visitors. Also, many foreign people live in this gorgeous city, contributing to the diversity of Istanbul and its cuisine. The other reason is that Turkey is very diverse because it includes all Mediterranean, Eastern, Aegean, and Black Sea cultures. Turkey has 7 regions, and we can easily say it is like 7 different countries. The region’s cultures vary from each other, and due to Istanbul`s diverse population, the city has become a mini version of the country.
Do not hesitate to visit Istanbul and try all these delicious foods due to the confusion and diversity. Here are the best foods and foodie spots in Istanbul you should definitely try!
Best Places to Try Local Foods in Istanbul
Petek Turşuları
Petek Turşuları is the best place to drink pickle juice in Istanbul. Pickle juice is a trendy drink in Turkey. You can even find it on the street but can not find one like in the Petek Turşuları. It is one of the oldest shops in Beyoğlu Fish Market. Do not expect to find only popular types of pickles. There are myriad types of pickles, including watermelon or mandarin. They can pickle all kinds of vegetables and fruits.
Address: Asmalı Mescit, Dudu Odaları Sk. 1/D, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Nato Lokantası
Nato Lokantasi is one of the well-established artisan restaurants serving since 1952. Artisan restaurants are where tradesmen usually eat delicious homemade food on their lunch break. It is important to see local dishes of the culture.
Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Necatibey Caddesi, Karanlık Fırın Sk. No:4 D:Karaköy, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Adana Ocakbaşı
It’s a simple and cozy place, and both service and food quality are excellent. It is a perfect place to eat kebabs and appetizers. If you want to try raki, the cultural alcohol of Turkey, it will be a suitable place for that too.
Address: Bozkurt, No:2, Baysungur Sk, 34375 Şişli/İstanbul
Giritli Restaurant
A 19th-century restaurant serving Cretan cuisine in elegant dining rooms and on the outdoor terrace. The restaurant serves healthy and delicious appetizers and fresh fish in a restored old Sultanahmet house. The vibe definitely takes you away from the city life of Istanbul.
Address: Cankurtaran, Keresteci Hakkı Sk. No:8, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Mandabatmaz
Mandabatmaz has been making Turkish coffee since 1967. You will never want to leave this lovely place with its charming and cozy atmosphere. Mandabatmaz continues to serve the most beautiful Turkish coffee to visitors from all over the world every day.
If you are looking for more in-depth information about Turkish coffee and the coffee culture, look at our blog about Turkish coffee!
Address: Asmalımescit, Olivya Gç. 1/A, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Best Rooftop and Fine Dining Restaurants in Istanbul
Spago Restaurant & Bar
This restaurant serves international cuisine and cocktails with high standards. Spago Istanbul, the terrace venue at the St Regis hotel, is one of the best venues in Nişantaşı, with an atmosphere that offers elegance and comfort together.
Address: Harbiye, Mim Kemal Öke Cd. No:35, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul
Il Cortile Istanbul
The building, which is a former French school, serves as a hotel and restaurant. The place is beautifully decorated, and a pleasant ambiance is created. The staff is caring and knowledgeable. You can find a comprehensive menu of Italian cuisine.
Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi Sk. No:14 D:20, 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Six Senses Kocataş Mansions – Avlu Restaurant
The Avlu Restaurant is an interesting motto. They say they prepare their dishes with the “Eat With Six Senses” philosophy. Avlu Restaurant offers guests a unique experience, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You should visit if you do not want to miss the wonderful harmony of Anatolian and Mediterranean cuisines.
Address: Merkez, Türkiye, İstanbul, Meserburnu Cd. No:7, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul
Neolokal
You can enjoy the sophisticated ambiance of Neolokal while watching the Galata and the Golden Horn views. The building is a historic building that was used for the old Ottoman Bank, and it gives a more deep ambiance. Turkish food is served in many different styles, quite light and delicious.
Address: Arapcamii Mahı, Bankalar Cd. No:11, 34420, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Backyard Restaurant & Bar
Breakfast, tapas, foreign cuisine, cocktails, and wine are provided in a pleasant location with a sitting space in Backyard Restaurant & Bar. You will love the decoration and the garden area. Both cocktails and the dishes are excellent, and the live music that starts after a certain hour makes you addicted to this place.
Address: Bebek, 4 Bebeköy Sokak, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
- For more rooftop and fine dining restaurant suggestions, visit our blog for detailed information!
Bonus!
If you are looking for more budget-friendly restaurants or street food, do not forget to look at our “Istanbul on a budget” article 🙂