10 Unforgettable Restaurants to Experience Modern Turkish Cuisine in Istanbul
From Tradition to Innovation: A Culinary Journey Through Istanbul
Istanbul has long stood at the crossroads of civilizations—and of flavors. In recent years, the city has become a hotbed for chefs reinventing traditional Turkish cuisine through a modern lens. From Anatolian roots to global techniques, a new generation of restaurants is redefining what it means to eat Turkish food.
If you’re ready to experience the modern face of Turkish cuisine, here are 10 exceptional restaurants in Istanbul that offer more than just a meal—they offer a story, a culture, and an unforgettable culinary experience.
1.TURK Fatih Tutak
“The Chef Who Brings Anatolia’s Story to the Plate”
A shining star in Istanbul’s fine dining scene, TURK Fatih Tutak is not only one of Türkiye’s most acclaimed restaurants but also a rising name in the global culinary world. Holding two Michelin stars, the restaurant stands out with Chef Fatih Tutak’s deeply personal and culturally rich tasting menus, blending emotion, memory, and technical mastery.
Honoring Anatolia, Inspiring the Future
Opened in 2019, TURK Fatih Tutak reimagines Anatolia’s culinary heritage with modern techniques and artistic flair. In its very first year in the Michelin Guide Türkiye, the restaurant was awarded two Michelin stars, an honor it retained in the 2024 edition—a testament to its consistency and creativity.
More Than a Meal: A Journey Through Taste and Memory
Dining at TURK is not just about food—it’s a sensory journey, crafted from childhood memories, regional inspirations, and culinary innovation. Each dish tells a story from Chef Tutak’s personal past or from the cultural tapestry of Anatolia, brought to life with elegance and precision.
Through this philosophy, TURK presents a modern Turkish cuisine experience that bridges the traditional with the contemporary—captivating both local and international guests.
Location: Bomonti – Şişli
Michelin Guide: 2 Stars
2.Neolokal
“Respecting the Past, Committed to the Future”
Located in the historic SALT Galata building in Istanbul’s Karaköy district, Neolokal offers a modern fine dining experience that appeals not only to the palate but also to the heart. Led by Chef Maksut Aşkar, the restaurant combines Anatolia’s rich culinary heritage with contemporary techniques and a strong focus on sustainability.
Recognized with 1 Michelin Star and the prestigious Michelin Green Star, Neolokal delivers not only exceptional flavor, but also a value-driven gastronomic philosophy that makes it truly stand out.
With a menu inspired by the diverse regions of Anatolia, Neolokal emphasizes seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Every dish tells a story—rooted in tradition, culture, and the deep respect for nature and its bounty.
More than just a meal, Neolokal offers an experience shaped by memory, meaning, and mindfulness. Guests are invited on a refined culinary journey that reveals the richness of these lands, while evoking a personal connection through taste and emotion
Location: SALT Galata – Karaköy
Michelin Guide: 1 Star + Green Star
3.Mikla
Elevating Istanbul’s Culinary Scene
At the top of the Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla offers not only breathtaking views of Istanbul, but also a journey through the flavors of Anatolia — reimagined.
Chef Mehmet Gürs masterfully blends traditional tastes with contemporary techniques under his New Anatolian Kitchen concept.
It’s one of Istanbul’s most exceptional fine dining experiences — and a true destination for global food lovers.
Internationally acclaimed, Mikla is the only Turkish restaurant to be included in the “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list for eight consecutive years (2015–2022).
In 2018, it proudly ranked 44th among the world’s top restaurants.
It was also awarded a Michelin Star in 2023, 2024, marking its place at the pinnacle of culinary excellence.
Location:Beyoğlu – Marmara Pera
Chef Mehmet Gürs
Rooftop view |
4.Hodan
A Contemporary Take on Turkish Traditions
Located in the lush garden floor of the beautiful historic Cezayir Building in Beyoğlu, Hodan is the debut restaurant of one of today’s most talented chefs, Çiğdem Seferoğlu.
The menu is rooted in traditional Turkish cuisine, reimagined through a seasonal and locally sourced lens.
It’s thoughtfully structured under headings like “To Begin,” “Then,” “The Essentials,” “From the Stone Oven,” and “From the Garden.”
Signature dishes include:
Sea bass ceviche enhanced with Finike lemon and isot pepper
Crispy stone-oven flatbreads with Konya blue cheese or Erzincan aged tulum cheese
Lightly spicy sautéed hogweed (hodan herb) with strained yogurt – a true seasonal specialty
Each plate reflects Chef Seferoğlu’s refined technique and deep respect for regional ingredients.
Location:Beyoğlu – Cezayir Building Garden
Chef: Çiğdem Seferoğlu
5.Izaka Terrace
Where Flavor, View & Elegance Meet
Dreaming of an unforgettable dinner with a view of the Bosphorus?
Located in the heart of Istanbul, Izaka Terrace sits atop the prestigious CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel, offering more than just a meal — it delivers a truly refined gastronomic experience.
Blending the elegance of Istanbul’s historic texture with the breathtaking beauty of the Bosphorus, Izaka Terrace is recognized as one of the city’s top fine dining destinations.
The menu features a rich variety of flavors:
Fresh seafood,
A curated sushi bar,
Perfectly grilled meats,
Elegant meze plates,
and creative fusion dishes inspired by world cuisines.
Each plate reflects a balance of traditional sophistication and modern culinary creativity. Chef’s signature menus bring together the finest global tastes, served in an atmosphere that appeals to both local and international guests.
Location: Beyoğlu, Istanbul
Panoramic Bosphorus views
Live DJ sets and cocktail bar
6.Nicole
“Elegance Inspired by Tradition”
Perched atop a historic building in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, Nicole offers one of the city’s most refined fine dining experiences. The restaurant is named after Sister Agnès Marthe Nicole, who served in the building when it functioned as a hospital.
Led by Chef Serkan Aksoy, Nicole’s kitchen creates seasonal tasting menus that highlight local ingredients with contemporary techniques. Each dish is a modern interpretation of Anatolia’s rich culinary heritage, blending tradition with creative flair.
Nicole’s minimalist interior, terrace, and breathtaking views of Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula make it a perfect choice for romantic dinners or special celebrations. But what truly sets this place apart isn’t just the view — it’s the stories behind each plate, the respect for tradition, and the dedication to the culinary arts.
Location: Beyoğlu, Istanbul
Michelin Guide: 1 Star
7. Araka
A Hidden Culinary Haven in Serenity”
Tucked away in the lush greenery of Sarıyer, far from Istanbul’s urban buzz, Araka is a hidden gem that offers both refuge and an exceptional fine dining experience. For those seeking peace and flavor in equal measure, this boutique restaurant is a true escape.
Founded by Chef Pınar Taşdemir, Araka crafts its menu entirely with seasonal ingredients. The dishes are minimalist yet refined, combining local Anatolian flavors with modern culinary techniques. Every detail reflects elegant simplicity and a deep respect for nature.
Each plate served at Araka is a reflection of the chef’s personal journey and creative vision. The restaurant’s tranquil setting, with its close connection to nature and limited seating, creates an intimate and deeply personal dining experience.
Location: Sarıyer, Istanbul
Michelin Guide: 1 Star
8.Gallada
An Extraordinary Culinary Journey by Fatih Tutak on the Bosphorus
A symbol of refined luxury and innovative cuisine, Gallada is perched on the fourth floor of The Peninsula Istanbul, offering sweeping views of the Bosphorus. With a seating capacity of over 200 guests, this exclusive venue promises more than just a meal — it delivers a sophisticated, immersive dining experience.
Helmed by world-renowned Chef Fatih Tutak, Gallada & Topside Bar draws inspiration from the ancient Silk Road, blending culinary traditions from Turkey, Central Asia, and China. With a vibrant atmosphere and contemporary interpretations of time-honored flavors, Gallada invites guests on a sensorial journey across cultures and centuries.
At the Topside Bar, creative cocktails are served with stunning waterfront views.
Gallada is not just a place to dine — it’s where storytelling, heritage, and haute cuisine converge.
Location: The Peninsula Istanbul, Building 2 – 4th Floor
Cuisine: Turkish-Asian Fusion
9.Mürver Restaurant
Anatolian Flavors with a Modern Twist
Since opening its doors in 2017, Mürver Restaurant has quickly become one of Istanbul’s standout culinary destinations. Several dishes on the menu have become Mürver classics, beloved staples that guests keep coming back for.
Signature dishes include:
Trakya Kıvırcık (curly greens from Thrace)
Charcoal-grilled octopus
Baked rice pudding with ice cream — the famous Yanık Sütlaç
Along with seasonal specials featuring the freshest local ingredients.
Carefully selected seasonal and local products are expertly combined with modern techniques to highlight the unique flavors of Anatolian cuisine. Chef Mevlüt Özkaya’s passion for crafting dishes inspired by the bounty of sea and land earned him the “MICHELIN Young Chef” award during the MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural year in Turkey.
In its warm and elegant atmosphere, Mürver offers a rich variety of mezes, creative main courses, and seasonal desserts, delivering a complete gastronomic experience. Complemented by expertly paired wines and spirits, every visit promises an unforgettable culinary journey.
Location: Karaköy-Istanbul
Cuisine: Modern Anatolian Cuisine
10.Sunset Grill & Bar
Michelin-Awarded Fine Dining with an Unmatched View of the Bosphorus
Perched in Ulus Park with stunning panoramic views of the Bosphorus, Sunset Grill & Bar has stood as one of Istanbul’s premier fine dining establishments since 1994. Its most recent accolade is the 2023 Michelin Service Award, highlighting the restaurant’s ongoing commitment to excellence.
As of 2024, under the leadership of Executive Chef Marios Tsouris, who brings experience from Michelin-starred kitchens, the restaurant continues to offer a rich and creative menu inspired by Sushi alongside Mediterranean, Turkish, and Japanese culinary influences.
Istanbul’s captivating charm lies not only in its rich history, but also in its vibrant culinary scene. The 10 restaurants featured in this article offer just a glimpse into the city’s diverse gastronomic landscape.
Whether you’re in search of traditional Turkish flavors or innovative plates with a modern twist, there’s something delicious waiting for you in every corner of the city. Don’t hesitate to explore new tastes—because in Istanbul, every meal has the potential to become a memorable experience.