This Istanbul institution was founded in the neighborhood of Fatih in 1950. The Fatih location has since closed, but the restaurant’s loyal following ensured its survival in Nisantasi, with a second branch in Etiler. Istanbullus wax lyrical over the traditional Turkish and Ottoman cooking served here. Hünkar is famous for its begendili kebap [...]

After 15 years of standing room only on Nevisade Sokak, Boncuk has followed the migration of Beyoglu’s dining epicenter over to the Asmalimescit neighborhood. Keeping with its meyhane roots, Boncuk serves delicacies such as fried brains (mmm . . .) and stuffed spleen, but thankfully there’s a variety of more recognizable hot and [...]

Istanbul is full of crowd-pleasers, and Gelik is one (or should I say two: there’s a Gelik for fish and one for meat on opposite sides of the highway). More of an empire, Gelik enjoys a loyal following of fans, offering something for everyone, including the little ones, with outdoor picnic areas and playgrounds. Indoors [...]

The lively chatter coming from packed outdoor tables confirms that Gedikli is indeed the latest word among locals for good food, good fun, and good prices. The meyhane specializes in fresh fish grilled, steamed, or fried. Fish is preceded by mezes that pass the discerning muster of local palates. The restaurant is the centerpiece of [...]

Hidden along the steep slopes of Galata’s historic streets, this little restaurant, the brainchild of an architect/city planner and his wife, occupies a row house that served as the British jail in the early 1900s. The coziness of the dining rooms — three small salons and an outdoor upper balcony — belie the building’s earlier [...]

This restaurant has two tables and serves expertly grilled fish and a chowderlike fish stew. The husband-and-wife owners used to run a larger restaurant in a ritzier neighborhood, but say they prefer their new, slightly shabbier quarters.

“Old and new, history and culture — they live here in Galata together,” said Tumay Balteci, who works [...]

Things don’t really get started here until dinnertime, but the menu works great for a light lunch of clever salads and sandwiches. The short string of tables on Sofyali Sokak offers some of the best people-watching in the area, while on cooler evenings, most diners opt for the relaxed, mezzanine-level dining room. Dinner options are [...]

The original Fez Café began as a tiny cafe serving much-needed caffeine and sugar for the boost required to make it through a grueling day wandering the Grand Bazaar. This second location, tucked just outside of the Nuruosmaniye Gate, sets the bar slightly higher with a sophisticated menu of Italian dishes and street-side dining. While [...]

Lesser princes and dignitaries were relegated to this stunning auxiliary palace, which has been renovated and converted into a luxurious restaurant and cultural center. Summertime is definitely the season for this spot, as the tables move out to the seaside terrace, creating a spectacular dining experience little more than an arm’s length from scores of [...]

While not really a Turkish staple, felafel makes a nice change to the endless kebaps that are by now making you feel a bit top-heavy. This humble eatery also serves hummus and soup, and a number of mix-and-match menus for $10 and under.