Best Restaurants to Check Out in Turkey: 2024 Dining Guide

Venturing into Turkey with only kebabs on skewers and baklava in mind? Prepare to be amazed by the local cuisine’s vast array of delicious food at the best touristy restaurants. Turkish culinary culture, highlighted in every local food blog, is like a grand bazaar of various delicious tastes and scents, from Beyoğlu to Fatih.

At its core, Turkish cooking uses fresh produce, aromatic spices, and delicious meat. In addition, age-old food techniques have been perfected over generations in restaurants around the world to try.

Eager to explore the rich tapestry of Turkish cuisine? We’ve curated a list of restaurants that showcase culture and history served on a plate through food, each dish offering a taste of tradition, including salads.

Discover Istanbul’s culinary scene through guided food tours.

Turkey offers an exciting culinary journey, especially in Istanbul. Guided food tours allow you to explore this vibrant city’s culinary scene, including restaurants, cafes, and delicious dishes. Sampling different neighborhoods’ delicious food flavors at restaurants is one of the best things to do in Turkey.

Local guides share insights into Turkey’s delicious food culture, including restaurants and cafes, during these tours. They reveal secrets behind traditional food recipes and modern twists on classic dishes in restaurants. This delicious food experience connects you with the heart of Turkish cuisine.

Turkey offers a wide and diverse selection of delicious food choices, including salads, at restaurants where you can eat at the table. One must-try food is Turkish baklava, known for its rich, layered, delicious flavors that melt in your mouth when you eat it. The secret lies in combining delicious nuts, syrup, and buttery pastry in food.

Seafood lovers will appreciate the delicious freshness of Aegean seafood dishes at restaurants and should try them at the table. Coastal towns’ restaurants serve up delicious grilled fish and calamari like nowhere else, a must-try food. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious Turkish delight and spices for a sweet end or a spicy kick to your food meals.

When exploring Turkey’s traditional dishes, delicious kebabs are a must-eat food item on your list. Authentic kebabs offer a delicious taste that is hard to find outside their homeland, even in the best restaurants serving this food on their tables. This is due to specific cooking methods, local ingredients, and food in restaurants.

Manti (Turkish dumplings) vary by region but always provide comfort with every bite. These are served with yogurt or tomato sauce – delightful! Another essential breakfast dish is Menemen. It is a flavorful blend of eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices.

Istanbul streets come alive with the aroma of various must-try street foods:

• Bite into the crispy goodness of Simit.
• Relish Adana Kebap from street vendors and restaurants for a spicy treat.
• For those seeking adventure in their palate, try Kokoreç.

These options highlight how street food and restaurants can offer genuine tastes reflecting local life.

If you’re eager to dive into contemporary Turkish cuisine, Mikla is a must-visit restaurant. Located in Beyoğlu, the restaurant offers stunning views alongside its innovative dishes. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring each visit is unique.

If you’re exploring Turkey, make sure to visit Neolokal. This place stands out for its unique twist on flavors from Anatolia and the Mediterranean. The chefs’ dedication to sustainability adds another layer to your dining experience.

Asitane Restaurant stands out among restaurants offering traditional Ottoman cuisine. The restaurant meticulously recreates historic recipes that once graced the palaces of Istanbul. Dining here feels like a journey back in time.

Istanbul’s streets are one of the best places to visit in Turkey. It is alive with flavors that tell stories of the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. One such delight is Gözleme. These savory pancakes are filled with various ingredients.

The Bosphorus shores offer another iconic treat: Balık Ekmek. It is a popular Turkish street food that translates to “fish bread.” It’s a simple sandwich made with grilled or fried fish (commonly mackerel). It is often served in a half or whole loaf of bread, like a baguette or Turkish pide bread.

Finally, we can’t talk about Turkish street food without mentioning Döner kebab. These rotating spits of meat can be found everywhere. Stalls from bustling marketplaces to quiet side streets offer its unique spin on this beloved dish.

Nicole provides an exquisite blend of French and Turkish cuisines within an intimate setting. Its seasonal menus and extensive wine list create a memorable fine dining experience.

Sunset Grill & Bar boasts some of the most breathtaking vistas in Istanbul. This is perfect for special occasions or simply indulging your senses.

Alancha takes innovation to new heights by blending tradition with modernity through its dishes. Each course tells a story, inviting diners to explore Turkey’s culinary landscape.

When you explore Turkey’s culinary landscape, you’ll encounter unique and flavorful dishes. A standout is Çiğ Köfte, Turkey’s take on steak tartare. This dish blends finely ground meat with bulgur, spices, and herbs. It’s a bold flavor experience not to be missed.

Another must-try is İskender Kebap. Imagine thinly sliced lamb drenched in rich tomato sauce. This is served over pita bread with a generous dollop of yogurt. This dish perfectly captures the essence of Turkish flavors.

• In Bursa, ludağ Kebapçısı Cemal & Cemil Usta isn’t a vacation spot, but it’s famous for serving top-notch İskender.

For seafood lovers, Hamsi offers a taste of the Black Sea region. These small fried anchovies are simple yet incredibly delicious. They’re often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.

• Specific resorts may not specialize in Hamsi. However, consider staying at a place like Zorlu Grand Hotel Trabzon. This puts you in a great position to explore the best local eateries serving fresh Hamsi.

In Kadikoy Market lies Ciya Sofrasi, renowned for its home-style cooking. Here, you can dive into traditional dishes made with love and care.

Seaside restaurants in Çanakkale offer fresh fish caught daily from nearby waters. Dining here provides exceptional meals and breathtaking views of the sea.

Lastly, Ankara houses cozy establishments where you can find comforting bowls of Corba (soup). Each spoonful warms the soul and showcases Turkey’s rich culinary traditions.

After exploring Istanbul’s dining scene, venture into these local eateries for an authentic Turkish cuisine experience.

If you’re eager to dive into the heart of Turkish culture, start with a visit to a local meyhane. Here, you can join locals in sipping Raki, Turkey’s beloved anise-flavored drink. Going to this place isn’t only for enjoying drinks. It’s a spot where people come together and make friends while sharing food.

Next, taste Gözleme, a simple yet irresistible dish with spinach and cheese. It’s a go-to for Turks seeking a quick and satisfying meal. This delectable treat perfectly embodies the warmth of Turkish hospitality.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Ayran during your culinary journey. This refreshing yogurt drink complements almost every meal. It provides a cooling balance to the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine.

• Asmalı Cavit (Istanbul) is a classic choice known for its traditional meze selection and excellent rakı. It’s a favorite among locals and offers an authentic meyhane experience.
• Yakup 2 (Istanbul) is located in the heart of Beyoğlu. Yakup 2 is another iconic meyhane. It offers a traditional Turkish tavern experience with various mezes and main courses. An excellent selection of rakı complements these.
• Meze by Lemon Tree (Istanbul) this meyhane is known for its gourmet approach to traditional Turkish appetizers. It offers a refined dining experience focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

For those who venture off the beaten path, incredible finds await. Fıccın stands out with its unique Circassian cuisine—a rare find among the best restaurants in Turkey. The dishes here showcase its complex flavors and time-honored cooking techniques.

In Istanbul’s backstreets lies Van Kahvalti Evi, renowned for offering breakfast feasts. Start your day with the richness of Turkish breakfast traditions. Olives, cheeses, honeycomb—these are all there waiting for you.

Finally, explore Kadıköy Moda’s quaint cafes. This is where artisan coffee meets exquisite desserts. These spots are perfect if you’re looking to unwind after exploring Istanbul.

Turkey’s culinary landscape offers an incredible variety of flavors.

One of the must-try experiences involves Turkish olives and olive oils. Each region in Turkey produces its unique type of olive, ranging from sweet and fruity to tangy and spicy.

You can find these olives served at breakfasts or as appetizers before meals. Olive oil is also a staple in Turkish cuisine, used in salads and for cooking. Visit local markets to sample different kinds and learn about their production processes.

Another treasure trove of flavors comes from Turkish cheeses. Ezine cheese, made from cow, sheep, or goat milk, is known for its rich taste. Tulum cheese has a distinct flavor due to its aging in goatskin containers. Sampling these cheeses gives insight into Turkey’s pastoral traditions and regional variations.

Turkey also boasts an impressive range of wines, reflecting its diverse climates and soils. Anatolia’s vineyards produce unique and flavorful wines.

• Kantin (Istanbul) is known for its farm-to-table approach. It offers dishes that highlight the quality of its ingredients. This includes exquisite olives, olive oil, and artisanal cheeses like Ezine and Tulum. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring the freshest flavors.
• Mikla (Istanbul) is at the forefront of Istanbul’s contemporary dining scene. Its innovative dishes use local ingredients, including premium olives, olive oils, and cheeses. The restaurant offers a stunning city view, complementing its equally impressive menu.
• Zeytinli Rock Festival (Balıkesir) although not a restaurant, this annual music festival is known for its olive groves. This event offers an opportunity to taste some of the region’s best olives and olive oil products.

What comes after exploring the subtle tastes of olives, oils, cheeses, and wines? Let’s now dive into the heartier side of Turkish cuisine with dishes like Lahmacun, Pide, and Börek.

Lahmacun is often referred to as Turkish pizza. However, it still stands out due to its thin crust topped with minced meat, vegetables, herbs, and spices. When blended, it creates a savory delight that’s spicy yet refreshing when garnished with lemon juice.

Then there’s Pide, which might remind you more closely of pizza. It’s essentially flatbread shaped like a boat filled with various toppings. This includes but is not limited to cheese or ground meat. sometimes, even egg makes an appearance on top just before serving!

Lastly, Börek should not be missed. This flaky pastry can be filled with anything from feta cheese combined with spinach leaves through minced meat. Each region adds its twist, making every bite discovery all its right.

• Halil Lahmacun (Istanbul) This eatery is famous for its thin, crispy lahmacun, packed with flavorful minced meat, herbs, and spices. It’s a favorite among locals for a quick, delicious bite.
• Karadeniz Pide ve Döner Salonu (Istanbul) is a modest establishment in Beşiktaş known for serving some of the best pide in Istanbul. Their menu features a variety of pide, including options filled with the region’s unique Tulum cheese.
• Börekçi Tevfik (Istanbul) is celebrated for its handmade börek. This spot offers a range of fillings from classic minced meat to spinach and cheese. It’s a go-to place for those seeking the flaky goodness of traditional Turkish börek.
• Lades Menemen (Istanbul) also offers excellent lahmacun, pide, and a variety of börek. It’s a preferred spot for a hearty breakfast or a fulfilling meal any day.

Gastronomic Wonders of Istanbul

• Tugra Restaurant inside Çırağan Palace Kempinski is a must-visit if you’re eager to taste royal Ottoman cuisine. The ambiance transports you back in time, offering an authentic dining experience. Here, the dishes tell stories of the past with every bite.
• Ulus 29 stands out for its upscale Turkish dishes and the breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait. It’s a perfect spot for those who appreciate good food and nature’s beauty. The restaurant’s setting adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.
• Yeni Lokanta introduces you to seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients. This place is all about innovation within tradition. You’ll find familiar flavors turned into something new and exciting here.

Ortaköy Square is famous for Kumpir, a baked potato with various toppings. Watching your Kumpir being prepared is truly an experience to enjoy.

For dessert lovers, Karaköy Güllüoğlu offers what many consider the best Baklava in Istanbul. Their secret recipes have been passed down through generations, making each bite a piece of history.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Tantuni stalls scattered around the city for a quick wrap filled with spiced meat. This is popular along the Mediterranean coast. It’s flavorful and satisfying – perfect for foodies on the go.

By exploring these recommended spots:

• You dive deep into Turkey’s rich culinary heritage.
• Enjoy meals that blend centuries-old traditions with modern twists.
• Experience Istanbul not just as tourists but as locals do – through its food.

Remember:

• Every restaurant has its own story.
• Street food joints offer unique tastes at every corner.
• Exploring these places enriches your travel experience beyond sightseeing.

Turkey offers a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds. Start your day with Sucuklu Yumurta at local diners. This dish combines spicy sausage and eggs, offering a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day.

Local eateries serve up this traditional meal with fresh bread. It’s the perfect blend of spices and textures.

For lunch or dinner, don’t miss out on Meze platters. These are popular along the Aegean coast, especially in seafood restaurants. Mezes include small dishes like stuffed vine leaves, eggplant salad, and more.

They prepare you for the main course while allowing you to sample various flavors.

End any meal with Künefe, a sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup. This dessert is crunchy and soft, creating an unforgettable finish to your experience.

Many cafes across Turkey specialize in Künefe, each adding its unique twist.

Turkey’s streets are alive with food stalls that offer quick bites full of flavor.

• Look for Pilav carts serving fragrant rice topped with chickpeas and chicken. This simple yet satisfying dish reflects Turkey’s love for rice-based meals. It’s affordable and filling – ideal for travelers on the go.
• Next on your street food adventure should be stuffed mussels (Midye Dolma). These snacks are a must-try. They are found around bustling squares and markets. Vendors skillfully fill mussel shells with aromatic rice mixture before offering them to eager customers.
• Finally, refresh yourself with seasonal fruit cups from street-side vendors. These fruit cups are the perfect snack during warmer days or after a day’s excursion.

Turkey’s street food is a gateway to its soul. Döner, a rotating meat feast, has leaped from simple street stalls to the menus of high-end restaurants. You’ll find it reimagined with gourmet touches that surprise and delight.

The transformation doesn’t stop there. Traditional recipes undergo a metamorphosis at the hands of top Turkish chefs. They emerge as modern culinary masterpieces. This blend of old and new showcases Turkey’s rich food culture.

Street foods embody simplicity yet inspire sophistication in Turkey’s dining scene. Casual eats like Simit (sesame bread rings) share the spotlight with luxury dining experiences.

Summer in Istanbul brings out locals’ love for Eggplant dishes, especially Imam Bayildi. Eateries across the city feature this dish prominently on their summer menus.

• Asitane Restaurant (Istanbul) meticulously recreates Ottoman palace cuisine, offering a historical dining experience. Their İmam Bayıldı is a testament to their dedication to authenticity and flavor. It showcases the richness of eggplant combined with olive oil and tomatoes.
• Ciya Sofrasi (Istanbul) is famous for its extensive menu of Anatolian dishes, including a superb İmam Bayıldı. The restaurant prides itself on using traditional recipes and seasonal ingredients.

Grilled fish sandwiches, or Balık Ekmek, are a staple of Istanbul’s waterways. This all-time favorite among Istanbulites captures the essence of seaside dining in Turkey. It’s simple yet utterly satisfying.

• Eminönü Fish Sandwich Boats (Istanbul)
  The floating fish boats moored near the Galata Bridge in Eminönü offer freshly grilled fish sandwiches. It’s an iconic Istanbul experience with a bustling atmosphere and views of the Bosphorus.
• Karaköy Lokantası (Istanbul)
  Karaköy is more known for its traditional Turkish meals and seafood dishes. However, it also serves as a refined version of Balık Ekmek. It emphasizes quality ingredients and preparation in a stylish setting.

Lastly, no discussion about Turkish cuisine would be complete without mentioning Baklava. This sweet pastry remains a preferred dessert choice for many Turks.

• Karaköy Güllüoğlu (Istanbul)
  Güllüoğlu is one of the most famous baklava spots in Istanbul. It dates back to 1820 and is renowned for its crispy, syrupy, and nut-filled baklava. Their commitment to quality and tradition makes it a must-visit for dessert aficionados.
• Gaziantep Baklavacısı Bilgeoğlu (Istanbul)
  Bilgeoğlu offers the city’s best and most authentic taste of Gaziantep baklava. Gaziantep is famous for its baklava. Bilgeoğlu keeps this tradition with their mastery of this pastry.
• Hafız Mustafa 1864 (Istanbul)
  Established in 1864, Hafız Mustafa has perfected the art of Turkish sweets. Several locations across Istanbul offer various baklava and other traditional desserts.

You’ll witness an enduring love for these traditional flavors in eateries across Istanbul. This is alongside innovative dishes that push culinary boundaries.

Turkey is making a shift toward sustainability and innovation in its culinary scene. You will see a rise in farm-to-table restaurants. These places focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. It means fresher, tastier dishes for you.

In these eateries, there’s a strong relationship between the chefs and the farmers. They work together to bring the best of Turkey’s produce to your plate. This approach supports local communities and ensures high-quality meals for diners.

Another trend gaining momentum is fusion cuisine. Turkish flavors are blending with global cooking techniques to create unique dining experiences. Imagine traditional Turkish kebabs with a twist of French or Italian seasoning. Or perhaps a classic dessert like baklava reimagined with elements from Japanese pastry arts.

This fusion creates unforgettable flavors that stay with you.

Moreover, there’s good news for those who prefer plant-based diets. Vegetarian and vegan options are expanding across Turkey’s menus. Traditional eateries are adding more plant-based dishes that are still delicious.

Driving in Turkey opens up a realm of possibilities. You can explore these dining options from cities like Istanbul to fairytale-like Cappadocia.

Here are essential local road rules to keep in mind:

• Drive on the Right: In Turkey, driving is on the right-hand side of the road, with overtaking on the left. This is important for tourists from countries with left-hand driving systems to note.
• Speed Limits
  Speed limits in Turkey are strictly enforced and vary by location: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways. Radar traps and speed cameras are common.
• Seat Belt Use
  Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in front and back seats. Non-compliance can result in fines.
• Alcohol Limit
  The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in Turkey is lower than many other countries, set at 0.05%. For drivers of commercial vehicles and new drivers, the limit is 0.00%. Penalties for drunk driving are severe. This can include heavy fines, imprisonment, and suspension of driving privileges.
• Traffic Fines
  Turkey employs on-the-spot fines for traffic violations. This includes speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, and using a mobile phone without a hands-free device. It’s essential to carry sufficient cash in case the police stop you.
• Headlight Use: Headlights are mandatory during the day while driving outside of urban areas. This rule aims to increase vehicle visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) in Turkey is essential if you’re considering driving. This is an essential supplement to your national driving license.

The IDP acts as a globally recognized identification, translating your driving qualifications into multiple languages. This helps local authorities, rental agencies, and insurance companies overcome language barriers.

Turkey’s rich culinary landscape offers a unique journey through flavors, traditions, and innovations. Each region presents gastronomic wonders reflecting Turkey’s diverse culture and history.

Ready to check out the top dining options from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the countryside? Consider renting a car and getting an International Driving Permit for a culinary adventure across the country.

🚗 Already in Turkey and need an IDP to drive in Turkey? Get it online in just 8 minutes! Valid worldwide with 24/7 support.