Top 10 Istanbul Restaurants

Most tourists seek out the most famous restaurants in Istanbul during their trips, eager to experience all the dishes served in these restaurants and to learn about their food presentation methods as well.

It's worth mentioning that restaurants are not just places to eat but also tourist attractions where visitors can capture exquisite photos, especially those with direct views of the sea or located on hilltops.

In this article, Skyline Tourism will take you on a tour of the best and most famous restaurants in Istanbul.

List of 10 Famous Istanbul Restaurants

Istanbul is known for hosting many restaurants that are considered tourist attractions in themselves.

Many visitors to the city are eager to try Turkish dishes and meals that are unique to them.

Below is a list of some of the most famous and best restaurants in Istanbul.

Medina Restaurant

Medina Restaurant is considered the most famous in Istanbul, embodying a desired tourist destination for many around the world. 

The restaurant gained its fame from its owner, Chef "Burak," whose food preparation techniques became widely popular on social media.

Medina Restaurant is visited by some of the world's most important celebrities during their tours in Istanbul.

It stands out for its reasonable prices compared to other famous restaurants, despite the high quality of the food it serves.

Nusr-Et Restaurant

Nusr-Et Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul, known for its unique thick meat preparations and distinctive grilled flavor.

Owned by the famous Turkish chef Nusret Gökçe, the restaurant gained worldwide fame after he went viral for his salt-sprinkling technique. 

Since its opening in 2010, it quickly expanded in Turkey and several other countries worldwide, becoming one of the top tourist destinations in Istanbul.

Kofteci Yusuf Restaurant

When visiting Istanbul, you'll find the most delicious meatballs ("köfte") served at Kofteci Yusuf Restaurant.

With branches across both the European and Asian sides of the city, this restaurant stands out for its extremely high-quality meals at reasonable prices, making it popular among tourists and locals alike.

Lale Istanbul Restaurant

Lale Istanbul Restaurant is one of the most beautiful and elegant restaurants in Istanbul, offering a direct view of the sea in the serene and picturesque area of Sarayburnu.

The restaurant serves delicious Turkish dishes desired by tourists, along with high-quality Western dishes prepared by skilled chefs, which contributed to its fame.

Hamdi Istanbul Restaurant

Hamdi Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul, located in the upmarket area of Beyoğlu.

It is known for its unique taste of grilled dishes alongside the finest Eastern desserts.

Originally opening its doors in the 1960s as a small kebab cart roaming the streets, it has now become one of the best and most famous restaurants in Istanbul.

Sultan Ahmet Kofteci Restaurant

For those craving authentic Turkish cuisine, Sultan Ahmet Kofteci Restaurant is the ideal choice.

Located in the Sultanahmet area, known for its historical and religious sites, the restaurant offers high-quality Turkish and European dishes.

Its popularity is also attributed to its location, always bustling with tourists due to its historical and religious significance.

Sunset Restaurant

Sunset Restaurant was established in 1994 atop a hill in Ulus Park on the European side of Istanbul.

It is one of the finest restaurants in the city, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and the Bosphorus Bridge.

The restaurant's excellent service, diverse menu including Turkish, Asian, and sushi dishes, as well as its elegant interior decor and live music, make it a sought-after destination.

Oba Istanbul Restaurant

This restaurant is one of the most luxurious and beautiful in Istanbul, boasting elegant views of the Bosphorus Strait.

It is renowned as a romantic spot in the city, popular among both locals and tourists.

Built over 40 years ago, the restaurant serves Turkish and European dishes and offers outdoor seating, children's facilities, reasonable prices, secure parking, and a special section for celebrations and events.

Hoka Istanbul Restaurant

Hoka Restaurant is located in the vibrant area of Beşiktaş, one of the most visited areas on the European side of Istanbul.

It stands out for its beautifully designed decor, providing visitors with comfort and tranquility.

The restaurant offers a variety of unique dishes such as Turkish pastries, pizzas, and meats, making it a favorite among tourists and residents alike for its exquisite cuisine, stunning views, and affordable prices.

Maiden's Tower Restaurant

Maiden's Tower Restaurant is one of the most famous and beautiful restaurants in Istanbul, situated amidst the water in the Üsküdar area on the Asian side of the city.

It's a fantastic destination for travelers looking for an unparalleled dining experience with a mesmerizing view.

The restaurant offers visitors Ottoman-inspired dishes along with a variety of international cuisines, creating a wonderful atmosphere for lunch and dinner, complemented by live music, enhancing the mysterious ambiance of the place.

Food in Istanbul is a strong tourist asset, as visitors find beauty in the designs and decorations of restaurants and delight in the food served to attract tourists, leaving them with a favorable impression of Turkish cuisine.

In conclusion, through this article, we've learned about the best restaurants in Istanbul and their most prominent dishes, allowing you to enjoy a delightful experience at Istanbul's top restaurants with Skyline Tourism.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most famous restaurants in Turkey?

Istanbul hosts several famous restaurants known for their unique dishes. Some of these restaurants include:

• Medina Restaurant
• Nusr-Et Restaurant
• Lale Istanbul Restaurant
• Yusuf Kofteci Restaurant

What should I eat in Istanbul?

In Istanbul, you can try various foods throughout the day.

Start your day with a Turkish breakfast, enjoy a kebab lunch with Ayran, and try mussels ("midye") while strolling through the streets of Istanbul.

For dinner, you can indulge in Turkish cuisine, such as “çiğ köfte.”

Is food expensive in Turkey?

Food in Turkey is not considered expensive compared to other tourist destinations, but prices vary depending on the place where you choose to eat.

What are the most famous Turkish desserts?

Turkey is famous for its delicious and high-quality desserts, such as:

• Milk baklava
• Traditional baklava
• Sütlü Nuriye
• Turkish chocolate