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Zuma

Zuma (Radisson Blu Hotel, 7 Salhane Sokak, Ortakoy, Istanbul) – this is one of Istanbul’s popular Japanese restaurants. Various types of sushi and sashimi are served there, along with grilled dishes like jumbo tiger prawn with yuzu pepper, salt grilled seabass with burnt tomato and ginger relish, chili marinated lamb chops and homemade pickles, and spicy beef tenderloin with sesame, red chili and sweet soy.

Zuma is located in the district called “Ortakoy” (which means “village in the middle”).
This is a prestigious location on the European shore of Istanbul. Patrons can enjoy uninterrupted views of the eclectic-baroque Ortakoy mosque that in the evening appears to float upon the waters of the sea and continues with panoramic views of the Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian side of the city.

Ulus 29

Ulus 29 (Adnan Saygun Caddasi Ulus Parki, Istanbul) — Ulus 29 is one of the most sought-after social experiences in Istanbul, since its opening in 1993. Located on the hilltops of Ulus, the venue has a magnificent view overlooking the Bosphorus. Ulus 29 both with its fine dining restaurant and Club 29 sets the trend of indulgence and entertainment of Turkey.

Ulus 29, where gastronomy rhymes with conviviality, is a unique fine dining restaurant. The internationally acclaimed chef Mert Şeran; with his very distinct techniques and creativity in avant-garde modern cuisine, is known as one of the top chefs in Istanbul culinary scene. The chef has two signature menus- one that lists a wide sushi selection and the other with a list of Turkish and international favorites.

Sunset Grill & Bar

Sunset Grill & Bar (Kuruçesme Mahallesi, Yol Sokak No.2, Ulus) – patrons are drawn to this restaurant for its outdoor dining roof. Along with that and the stunning view of the city that it offers, the food served there is excellent and a mixture of international cuisine and Turkish dishes. It also has an excellent Sushi Bar attended by Japanese chefs trained in their native homeland. If not ordering from the sushi or sashimi menu, other appetizers include foie gras on mandarin brioche, octopus carpaccio or salmon tartar. Lighter starters include wild mushroom risotto or mixed greens with herbs grown in the on-site garden. Main course is a medley of land and sea with veal chops and grilled T-bone vying with grilled monkfish or lobster linguine. A traditional Turkish menu is also on hand for more-authentic menu options like kebabs or lamb shank and a top international wine list.

SALT Galata

SALT Galata (Bankalar Caddesi 11, Karaköy, Beyoğlu, Istanbul) — set on the top floor of the former Imperial Ottoman Bank headquarters in Karaköy, it offers top-notch art exhibitions and superb views of the Karaköy district. It also houses a specialized public library and archive, research spaces and a conference hall. If you enjoy feeding your mind with creative exhibitions, losing yourself in libraries, admiring spectacular views and relishing delicious local food, chances are SALT Galata will turn out to be your favorite restaurant in Istanbul.

Nusr-Et Steakhouse

Nusr-Et Steakhouse (Nispetiye Caddesi,87 Etiler, Beşiktaş, Istanbul) – this is one of the best steakhouses in Istanbul – serving delicious meats in a homeline atmosphere, such as Lamb T-bone, T-Bone Steak, Lamb Chops, meatballs, and more. The meats here have specific names, exclusive to Nusr-et such as ‘lokum’ (Turkish delight) and ‘ceviz’ (walnut). The three-dimensional Nusr-et köfte (meatballs), hamburger, lokum and ceviz are among favourites. The meat used is only from the Maramra region. All steaks are served with fries, spinach puree, or piyaz (beans). Because of its popularity, making a reservation is usually a good idea.

Mikla

Mikla (The Mamara Pera, 15 Mesrutiyet Caddesi, Beyoglu, Istanbul) — Located on the roof top floor of the fashionable “The Marmara Pera” hotel, “Mikla is urban, sleek and stylish. The restaurant is funky retro with chrome 70’s and 50’s furniture and a stunning wooden rail-sleepers bar.” The magical views over the city stretch to the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace where you almost travel back through time to the heart of the Old Istanbul.

Both the menu and the general feel of the restaurant reflect the Turkish-Scandinavian background of Mehmet Gürs, the Chef-Owner who pioneered the contemporary restaurant scene in Istanbul when he moved here in 1996. With its outstanding food, breathtaking view, proper service and inspiring music, Mikla was instantly voted best restaurant in Istanbul and continues to enjoy raving local and international reviews.

Mangerie

Mangerie (Cevdetpaşa Caddesi No.69, Bebek, Istanbul) – this neighborhood hotspot is located on the terrace of an unassuming 3-story building (tucked away above a hairdresser in Bebek, one of Istanbul’s most trendy districts). This cozy eatery has a relaxed beach cafe feel to it and there are both indoor and outdoor seating options available with panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Istanbul’s fashionable crowd can be seen here throughout the day, sipping on deliciously-brewed coffees and expertly-made cocktails, but it is the brunch that has earned Mangerie its reputation. it offers a wonderful choice of breakfast treats — both traditionally-Turkish and continental options are available. Besides the house breakfast plate, there is a pancake, eggs, and benedict menu to select from, along with freshly-baked pastries and cakes.
Along with its brunch, there is also traditional Turkish street food served here with a contemporary twist and international flavors. There are salads and gourmet deli-style sandwiches for lighter bites, along with main courses of fish and meat. With a fully-stocked bar, Mangerie is also a preferred spot for those looking to have a drink after work.

Istanbul Modern Café

Istanbul Modern Café (Meclisi Mebusan Caddesi Antrepo No.4, Salıpazarı; Istanbul) — adjacent to the exhibition spaces of the Istanbul Modern Museum and with a terrace looking out to the historical peninsula of Istanbul and the Bosphorus, Istanbul Modern Restaurant serves everyone (regardless of whether they are actually visiting the museum), with a rich menu. Though it’s a bit on the pricey side, there is a varied menu which, combined with the sea view, warrants a visit whether or not you’re interested in the art at the Istanbul Modern. You can choose from a range of lighter fare—including a variety of homemade pastas, salads, and meze as well as more substantial fresh seafood and meat options. A choice of salads and appetizers can be kinder to the wallet whilst still allowing you to enjoy the romantic evening ambiance.

Divan Brasserie Beyoglu

Divan Brasserie Beyoglu (The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.167/185, Tepebaşı; Istanbul) – this restaurant is located on top of a renovated han (large commercial building), where the Koç University’s Research Center for Anatolian Civilizations is also found. The food served here is a mix of Mediterranean (including Italian) and Turkish dishes – ranging from pasta, pizzas and risottos, to Turkish specialties like Ağır Ateşte Dana Kürek (beef brisket slow cooked to perfection). The tender meat served on eggplant puree is a surprisingly light twist on Turkish beef dishes, and it leaves diners craving for more. Another recommended dish is the Octopus Carpaccio (where green beans, potatoes, and zesty vinaigrette come together to create a delicious tableau).