Istanbul’s European side is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offering a wide range of restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences. Here are some highly regarded restaurants on the European side of Istanbul:
- Mikla: Located in the Beyoğlu district, Mikla is a renowned fine dining restaurant that offers contemporary Turkish and Scandinavian fusion cuisine. It is situated on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel, providing stunning views of the city.
- Çiya Sofrası: Situated in the Kadıköy district, Çiya Sofrası is celebrated for its traditional Anatolian and Southeastern Turkish cuisine. It serves an array of dishes inspired by regional recipes and uses high-quality ingredients.
- Asitane: Asitane, located in the Fatih district, specializes in Ottoman cuisine. It offers a unique dining experience with dishes that are inspired by centuries-old Ottoman recipes, presented in a historical and elegant setting.
- Sunset Grill & Bar: Situated in Ulus, Sunset Grill & Bar is famous for its breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. The restaurant offers a diverse menu with international and Turkish dishes, along with an extensive wine list.
- Balıkçı Sabahattin: Balıkçı Sabahattin, located in Kumkapı, is a popular seafood restaurant that has been serving traditional Turkish seafood dishes for decades. It offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
- Nicole: Situated in the Karaköy neighborhood, Nicole is a renowned restaurant that focuses on modern Turkish cuisine. It combines traditional flavors with innovative techniques, resulting in a creative and delicious dining experience.
- Vogue: Located in the Bebek neighborhood, Vogue offers a chic and stylish dining experience with stunning views of the Bosphorus. The restaurant serves a fusion of Mediterranean and international cuisine, accompanied by a trendy ambiance.
- Ulus 29: Situated in the Ulus district, Ulus 29 is a popular restaurant known for its panoramic views of the Bosphorus. It offers a diverse menu featuring international and Turkish dishes, along with an extensive selection of cocktails.
- Meze by Divan is a restaurant that serves traditional Turkish mezes. The menu features a wide variety of mezes, including hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki, and stuffed vine leaves.
- Asmalı Cavit is a fine dining restaurant that serves Turkish cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including lamb shank, grilled octopus, and sea bass.
- Nusr-et is a steakhouse that serves grilled meat dishes. The restaurant is famous for its steaks, which are cooked over a charcoal grill.
- 360 Restaurant is a rooftop restaurant that serves Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant offers stunning views of the city.
Please note that it is always recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants. Additionally, Istanbul’s culinary scene is vast and ever-evolving, so exploring local recommendations and reviews can help you discover hidden gems and new culinary experiences.
