Best Restaurants on the Asian Side of Istanbul
1. Çiya Sofrası – Kadıköy
This well-loved spot serves dishes that feel like your grandmother cooked them, hearty, flavorful, regional meals. The menu changes with the seasons, and the prices are very reasonable. It’s located right inside Kadıköy Market, a lively and authentic neighborhood hub.
2. Namlı Gurme – Caddebostan (Kadıköy)
A paradise for Turkish breakfast lovers. You’ll find artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and deluxe breakfast items. Everything is high quality, making it a food lover’s dream.
3. Karadeniz Pide ve Döner – Kadıköy
A small, simple eatery famous for its pide and döner. Cozy and unpretentious, it’s a great place for a quick and tasty Turkish meal while you watch the world go by.
4. Zapata Burger – Kadıköy
If you’re in the mood for burgers, this spot serves some of the best gourmet burgers in the area. The flavors are unique and high quality, perfect for those non-Turkish-food cravings.
5. Kadıköy Market Street Treats
Head to the market to try street food like steamed mussels stuffed with rice (midye dolma) and fried mussel skewers, simple, local, and full of flavor.
6. İsmailğa Kahvesi – Kanlıca
A famous spot to enjoy the local yogurt Kanlıca yoğurdu along the shoreline. Perfect for a light, refreshing snack in a relaxed setting.
Best Restaurants on the European Side of Istanbul
1. Mahir Lokantası – Şişli
A humble, beloved place where chefs often eat. Don’t miss their crispy lahmacun and flavorful içli köfte (meat-stuffed bulgur balls). It’s simple, delicious, and straight from tradition.
2. Aman da Bravo – Bebek (Beşiktaş)
This charming restaurant serves innovative versions of homey Turkish dishes. Think cabbage with lamb, dumplings with a unique twist. The atmosphere is elegant and relaxed.
3. Adana Ocakbaşı – Şişli
A lively kebab house where meat is grilled over open flames. Think Adana kebab with smoky flavor and a buzzing, communal vibe, an iconic Istanbul experience.
4. Seraf Vadi – Sarıyer
Here, Anatolian ingredients meet wood oven cooking. Signature dishes include stuffed onions, mantı, and cabbage rolls with an emphasis on rustic, deeply flavored Anatolian cuisine.
5. Arkestra – Contemporary fusion
A Michelin starred fusion restaurant combining global influences with creative flair. It offers a modern, refined take on flavors from around the world.
6. Neolokal – Modern Turkish
Also Michelin starred, Neolokal serves modern Turkish cuisine with elegant presentation and innovative techniques. Expect beautifully crafted dishes that highlight Turkey’s culinary heritage.
7. Araka – Modern Turkish
A stylish and celebrated spot offering refined Turkish dishes with contemporary touches. Elevated flavors and presentation make it a standout on the European side.
8. Hünkar Lokantası – Nişantaşı or Etiler
A family-run restaurant since 1950. Famous for Hünkar beğendi (eggplant purée with hearty lamb) and ayvalı yahni (quince stew). It feels like a timeless classic for Turkish gourmets.
