Where to Eat in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul boasts hundreds of restaurants. During David’s visit he had the chance to dine at several of them that provided a sampling of Turkish cuisine from different regions around the country. From the ones he tried, here’s the best of where to eat in Istanbul, Turkey.

Here are 5 of his favorite restaurants:

First restaurant is Albura Kathisma. David gets seated on the terrace and dives right into a couple kebab plates. They serve up several types of kebab from around Turkey. The Iskender Kebab with yogurt was definitely his favorite dish.

Next up is a place with a great view of the Bosphorus, Hamdi. David was tipped off about this place by a friend who frequents Istanbul. We highly recommend the mixed platter that comes with lamb, veal, and pistachio kebabs. Don’t skip on Hamdi’s most delicious dessert – a baked pastry with soft cheese and syrup and a Chai tea. If you want a great view, calling ahead to reserve a table is a must!

Now for fine dining at Neyzade – a restaurant specializing in gourmet traditional Turkish cuisine. The food, as well as the rooftop terrace setting, is what makes Neyzade perfect during the summer months. Be sure to call ahead to reserve a table outside.

Pasadaze Ottoman is the perfect casual lunch spot after a morning of sightseeing around the Sultahnamet District. Here, David tries minced meat with hummus, as well as stuffed grape leaves.

For an epic view over the Bosphorus and Istanbul’s landmarks, make a reservation at Tarihi Karakoy Balik Lokantase. It’s been here since 1923 and is considered a landmark in the Galata District. The restaurant specializes in seafood. Some standout dishes include the sea bass cooked in paper and the fish soup.

I hope you enjoyed David’s top 5 picks for where to eat in Istanbul, Turkey! This is definitely a food lover’s city.

Have any restaurant suggestions for Istanbul? Leave us a comment below!