Discover the Best Restaurants in Istanbul Old City

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul and wondering where to find the top-notch restaurants in the city? Look no further! This guide will help you navigate the bustling streets of Istanbul Old City to find the best dining spots to satisfy your cravings. From traditional Turkish cuisine to international dishes, Istanbul Old City has it all. So, let’s dive in and discover the best restaurants in Istanbul Old City!

Must-Visit Restaurants in Istanbul Old City

🍽️ 1. Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant

Located in the heart of Istanbul Old City, Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a unique twist. The restaurant specializes in the Ottoman cuisine, a fusion of Turkish, Arabic, and Persian flavors, and uses fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance of the restaurant is also remarkable, with traditional Ottoman decor and live music performances that add to the dining experience.

🍽️ 2. Balikci Sabahattin

If you’re in the mood for seafood, Balikci Sabahattin is the place to be. The restaurant has been around for over 70 years and is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. The menu includes a variety of grilled and fried fish, octopus, and calamari. The restaurant is also located in a historic building, adding to its charm and character.

🍽️ 3. Asitane Restaurant

Asitane Restaurant is another must-visit restaurant in Istanbul Old City. The restaurant specializes in the cuisine of the Ottoman sultans, offering unique and authentic flavors that you won’t find anywhere else. The menu includes dishes such as lamb stew with quince, chicken with walnuts and pomegranate, and many more.

Introduction

Istanbul Old City, also known as Sultanahmet, is the heart of Istanbul and the perfect place to experience the vibrant culture and history of the city. The area is home to some of the most famous landmarks, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace. But, what many people don’t know is that Istanbul Old City is also a food lover’s paradise, with many restaurants offering traditional Turkish cuisine and international dishes.

Whether you’re looking for a fine-dining experience or a quick bite, Istanbul Old City has it all. In this guide, we’ll explore the best restaurants in the area, so you don’t have to waste time searching for a great meal. From Ottoman cuisine to seafood, we’ve got you covered!

The Best Restaurants in Istanbul Old City

When it comes to dining in Istanbul Old City, there are so many options to choose from. However, we’ve narrowed down the list to the top three restaurants that you must visit during your trip.

Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant

🍽️ Location: Divanyolu Cad. Alemdar Mah. Ticarethane Sk. No: 8, 34122 Sultanahmet/Fatih/İstanbul

Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant is a hidden gem located in the heart of Istanbul Old City. The restaurant is known for its delicious Ottoman cuisine, which is a fusion of Turkish, Arabic, and Persian flavors. The chefs at Deraliye use fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create unique and authentic dishes.

The menu at Deraliye includes a variety of appetizers, main dishes, and desserts. Some of the must-try dishes include the Ottoman-style lamb shank, stuffed eggplant with minced meat, and the traditional Turkish dessert, baklava. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring some of the best local and international wines.

The ambiance of the restaurant is also worth mentioning. The interior is decorated in traditional Ottoman style, with colorful tiles, chandeliers, and intricate patterns. There are also live music performances on certain nights, adding to the overall dining experience.

FAQs:

1. What is Ottoman cuisine?

Ottoman cuisine is a fusion of Turkish, Arabic, and Persian flavors that developed during the Ottoman Empire. It features a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, stews, and salads.

2. What is the price range at Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant?

The price range at Deraliye is on the higher side, with main dishes ranging from 80 TL to 200 TL.

3. Do I need to make a reservation at Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant?

It is recommended to make a reservation, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.

Balikci Sabahattin

🍽️ Location: Seyit Hasan Koyu Sokak No: 1, 34110 Eminönü/Fatih/İstanbul

Balikci Sabahattin is a seafood restaurant located in a historic building in Istanbul Old City. The restaurant has been around for over 70 years and is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.

The menu at Balikci Sabahattin includes a variety of grilled and fried fish, calamari, octopus, and shrimp. The meze platter is also a must-try, with a variety of cold and hot appetizers. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring some of the best local and international wines.

The ambiance of the restaurant is also worth mentioning. The interior is decorated in a traditional Turkish style, with colorful tiles and wooden furniture. There is also a beautiful courtyard where you can enjoy your meal in the open air.

FAQs:

1. What is the price range at Balikci Sabahattin?

The price range at Balikci Sabahattin is on the higher side, with main dishes ranging from 80 TL to 150 TL.

2. What is the signature dish at Balikci Sabahattin?

The signature dish at Balikci Sabahattin is the grilled sea bass, which is cooked to perfection and served with a side of vegetables.

3. Do I need to make a reservation at Balikci Sabahattin?

It is recommended to make a reservation, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.

Asitane Restaurant

🍽️ Location: Kariye Camii Sokak No: 6 Edirnekapı, 34240 Fatih/İstanbul

Asitane Restaurant is a unique dining experience located in Istanbul Old City. The restaurant specializes in the cuisine of the Ottoman sultans, offering unique and authentic flavors that you won’t find anywhere else.

The menu at Asitane includes a variety of dishes, such as lamb stew with quince, chicken with walnuts and pomegranate, and many more. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring some of the best local and international wines.

The ambiance of the restaurant is also remarkable. The interior is decorated in a traditional Ottoman style, with colorful tiles and antique furniture. The restaurant also has a beautiful garden, where you can enjoy your meal in the open air.

FAQs:

1. What is the signature dish at Asitane Restaurant?

The signature dish at Asitane Restaurant is the lamb stew with quince, which is a traditional Ottoman dish.

2. What is the price range at Asitane Restaurant?

The price range at Asitane Restaurant is on the higher side, with main dishes ranging from 80 TL to 200 TL.

3. Do I need to make a reservation at Asitane Restaurant?

It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.

Conclusion

Exploring Istanbul Old City can be exhausting, but with this guide, you’ll be able to find the best restaurants to satisfy your cravings. From traditional Turkish cuisine to international dishes, Istanbul Old City has it all. So, go ahead and treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant, enjoy fresh seafood at Balikci Sabahattin, or try the unique flavors of Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant.

Don’t forget to make a reservation in advance, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons. Bon appétit!

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is accurate at the time of publication. However, restaurants may change their menu, prices, or operating hours without notice. Please check with the restaurant before visiting to ensure that the information is up to date.