A Culinary Boom: Exploring Istanbul’s Newest Restaurants

A fresh wave of restaurants has opened in Istanbul, bringing diverse global cuisines and innovative concepts to the city’s vibrant gastronomic landscape.

Istanbul’s dining and social scene is in a constant state of evolution, with a continuous stream of new establishments opening their doors. From the shores of the Bosphorus to the bustling districts of Beyoglu and Kadikoy, these new venues offer a wide array of experiences, catering to nearly every palate. The latest additions include high-end Italian eateries, modern interpretations of Turkish and Levantine cuisine, Asian-fusion concepts, and sophisticated rooftop bars. This guide provides a detailed look at the new restaurants and social hubs that are shaping the city’s culinary future.

New Venues on the Asian Side

Casa Mamma, Caddebostan

In Caddebostan, Casa Mamma offers an Italian dining experience rooted in family traditions. The establishment was founded by sisters Deniz, Idil, and Iris Gur, who aimed to recreate the warmth of their childhood family meals. The menu focuses on long-fermentation pizzas, regional Italian antipasti, and homemade desserts, incorporating local Anatolian products. The interior features artwork by their mother, Dr. Akansu Cigdem Gur, adding a personal touch to the decor. The restaurant also has a garden space for outdoor dining.

  • Address: Caddebostan, Caddebostan Plaj Yolu Sokak No:23, Kadikoy/Istanbul, Turkiye
  • Phone: 0532 591 02 20
  • Instagram: @casamamma.ist

Deli Deli – Delicious Delicatessen, Suadiye

Deli Deli – Delicious Delicatessen brings the American “deli” culture to Suadiye, led by Chef Hakan Ozfirinci, a winner of the 2014 Delifrance World Sandwich Championship in France, and his brother Gokhan Ozfirinci. The venue specializes in sandwiches made with three-day fermented sourdough Neapolitan dough baked in a stone oven. Key menu items include the Pastrami Reuben and Corned Beef, alongside Italian-inspired recipes and a variety of vegetarian options.

  • Address: Kazim Ozalp Sokak, Bagdat Caddesi, No:22 D:E, 34740 Istanbul
  • Phone: 0 216 356 25 25
  • Instagram: @delideli.co

Ginger, Acarkent

Following its presence in Bodrum Gumusluk and Alacati, Ginger has opened a new location in Acarkent, Istanbul. Founder Refik Berkol, along with partners Seyla and Hakan Karadeniz, brought the Asian-Mediterranean fusion concept to the city. The menu, developed by Chef Nazli Turker, features dishes such as Veal Cheek Dam Jim, Udon with cilantro pesto, and Yuzu-miso baked Camembert. The Sushi Bar offers signature rolls like the Volcano and Spicy Sake. On Friday and Saturday nights, the atmosphere shifts with DJ performances featuring 80s and 90s pop music.

  • Address: Acarlar, 9. Cad. C Blok No:11/2 Ic Kapi No:262, Beykoz
  • Phone: 0538 416 23 48
  • Instagram: @ginger.acarkent

Kendime Istanbul, Fenerbahce

Chef Ali Isik and his wife, operator Yeliz Sahinoglu Isik, have opened Kendime Istanbul in Fenerbahce. The restaurant operates on the philosophy of serving guests the same quality of food they would prepare for themselves. The menu is built around local ingredients and minimalist cooking techniques, with a focus on high-heat preparation. The venue aims to provide a refined yet warm dining atmosphere.

  • Address: Fenerbahce Mah. Op Cemil Topuzlu Cad. Dr. Kazim Lakay Sok. Kadikoy
  • Phone: 0553 448 11 48
  • Instagram: @kendime.istanbul

The Scalla, Beykoz

The Scalla, located in Beykoz, offers a menu centered on Mediterranean cuisine. The name, meaning “stairs” in Italian, reflects the restaurant’s goal of presenting different facets of Mediterranean food culture. The menu includes Neapolitan-style stone oven pizzas, Greek mezzes, and Spanish and Italian dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. The interior design by Urbanjobs features natural tones, and the venue hosts DJ performances and live music events.

  • Address: Acarlar Mah. Acar Verde Bloklari, Acarkent Sitesi, E, Blok No: 250, Beykoz
  • Phone: 0533 195 51 45
  • Instagram: @thescalla

The One, Suadiye

The One is a new brasserie in Suadiye that combines flavors from four continents. The menu spans a wide range of cuisines, from Peruvian and Far Eastern to South American and Anatolian. The restaurant features an open kitchen and serves fresh, house-made pastas and breads. Its bar offers a selection of signature cocktails, including the Naish, Satsuma, Nalu, and Butterfly. The venue includes a garden space for outdoor seating.

  • Address: Suadiye, Selim Ragip Emec Sok. No:4/A, Kadikoy
  • Phone: 0542 785 11 87
  • Instagram: @theonebrasserie

Vakko Le Specialita,

Vakko Hotel Sumahan Bosphorus Luxury brand Vakko has opened Vakko Le Specialita within its second hotel, Vakko Hotel Sumahan Bosphorus. Located in Cengelkoy, the restaurant serves classic Italian cuisine with modern interpretations against a backdrop of the Bosphorus. The menu is available from breakfast through dinner, with DJ performances accompanying the evening service. The hotel’s opening was recently hosted by Cem Hakko.

  • Address: Cengelkoy, Kuleli Cad. No:43, 34684 Uskudar
  • Phone: 0549 784 50 50
  • Instagram: @vakkolespecialita

Telezzuz, Kuzguncuk

Businessman Omer Koc has opened Telezzuz, a fine-dining vegan restaurant located within the Koc Sports Community complex in Baglarbasi. The restaurant’s name is an Ottoman term for “delightful flavors.” The walls are decorated with art from Omer Koc’s private collection, and he was reportedly involved in the menu’s development. Executive Chef Bahtiyar Buyukduman leads the kitchen, creating plant-based dishes that utilize local products while incorporating global culinary techniques.

  • Address: Koc Toplulugu Spor Kulubu, Kusbakisi Cad. No:16, Kuzguncuk, Uskudar
  • Phone: 0216 576 76 71
  • Instagram: @telezzuz.ist

Babi Istanbul, Beykoz

Located in Acarkent, Babi Istanbul presents a menu of Anatolian tapas, mezzes, and kebabs, complemented by a creative cocktail list. The restaurant’s design features a spacious interior with distinctive lighting, creating a sophisticated and bohemian atmosphere. It has become a notable spot for group dinners and celebrations in the Beykoz area.

  • Address: Acarlar, 9. Cad. E Blok No:11 Ic Kapi No:4, Beykoz
  • Instagram: @babi.istanbul

Boter, Caddebostan

Following the success of its original location in Kalamis, Boter has opened a second branch in Caddebostan. The name, which is Dutch for “butter,” reflects the key ingredient in its bakery and pastry items. The cafe serves freshly made products daily, along with a seasonal breakfast menu. Its coffee bar prepares its own syrups and sauces for its beverages, avoiding commercial flavorings.

  • Address: Caddebostan Plajyolu Sok. 8/D Kadikoy
  • Phone: 0216 504 84 67
  • Instagram: @boter.istanbul

New Venues on the European Side

Taste by Thomas Bühner,

Aliee Hotel Chef Thomas Bühner, known for his three-Michelin-star restaurant La Vie, has opened Taste by Thomas Bühner at the Aliee Hotel in Beyoglu. The restaurant features an open kitchen design to foster interaction between the culinary team and guests. The menu combines classic dishes with more experimental creations, reflecting Bühner’s focus on refined techniques and distinct flavors. Wine pairings are also a central part of the dining experience.

  • Address: Camiikebir Mahallesi, Taskizak Tersanesi Caddesi, No:11 Beyoglu – Istanbul
  • Phone: 0 501 810 82 35
  • Instagram: @alieeistanbul

Grasidi Gastro Garden, Grand Hyatt Istanbul

Located within the Grand Hyatt Istanbul, Grasidi Gastro Garden provides a garden setting in the city center. The menu concentrates on Aegean-Mediterranean cuisine, with both set and à la carte options available for dinner. On Sundays, the restaurant hosts a “Sunday Barbecue” with an open buffet featuring items like sausages, meatballs, entrecôte, and lamb skewers.

  • Address: Grand Hyatt Istanbul, Harbiye, Taskisla Cad. No:1, Istanbul, Turkey 34367
  • Phone: 0 531 651 00 70
  • Instagram: @grasidigastro

Manifest Roof, Galata

Manifest Roof is situated on the rooftop terrace of the Qeurencia Hotel, offering views of the Galata Tower. The venue operates from morning until late night, serving a menu that ranges from breakfast to dinner. Dishes include local flavors like smoked mackerel with zahter and modern starters such as shrimp ceviche and beef carpaccio. The bar’s signature cocktails include the Satsuma and Matcha Sour.

  • Address: Bereketzade Mahallesi, Simsir Sokak, No: 20, 34421, Beyoglu/Istanbul
  • Phone: 0 553 402 03 50
  • Instagram: @manifestroof

Dubb Indian & Chinese, The Marmara Taksim

Located at The Marmara Taksim, Dubb Indian & Chinese offers a menu that merges the culinary traditions of India and China. The restaurant provides a range of dishes that balance the spices of Indian cuisine with the cooking techniques of Chinese food. The menu clearly marks vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-sensitive options to accommodate various dietary needs.

  • Address: Gumussuyu, Osmanli Sokak, No:1/C, 34437 Beyoglu/Istanbul
  • Phone: 0 530 313 80 76
  • Instagram: @dubb.indianchinese

Zeffirino Istanbul, Ortakoy

The historic Italian restaurant Zeffirino 1939, originally from Genoa, has opened a location in Ortakoy, following openings in Monte Carlo and Paris. Operated by the Belloni family for three generations, the restaurant is known for its Genovese pesto and fresh, handmade pastas. The Istanbul outpost, developed with Riccardo Giraudi, features 360-degree Bosphorus views. Signature dishes prepared tableside include Mandilli al Pesto, Focaccia Formaggi, and Gelato Pistacchio.

  • Address: Yildiz, Ortakoy Salhanesi Sok. No:7, Besiktas
  • Phone: 0501 267 52 61
  • Instagram: @zeffirino_istanbul

Lokanta Ist, Kurucesme

Chef Ismet Saz has launched Lokanta Ist in Kurucesme, a restaurant with views of the Bosphorus that offers a modern and sustainable interpretation of Turkish cuisine. Opened on March 1, the venue prioritizes seasonal ingredients and a minimal-waste philosophy. In collaboration with food writer Nicholas Gill, Saz has developed a menu that includes innovative approaches, such as incorporating invasive lionfish to support the local ecosystem. The restaurant provides both a tasting menu and à la carte options, and its bar specializes in Turkish beverages.

  • Address: Kurucesme, Muallim Naci Cad. No:11, Besiktas
  • Phone: 0530 106 29 29
  • Instagram: @lokanta.ist

Paraliaki, Bebek

After establishing itself at Bobo by The Stay in Bodrum’s Cennet Koyu, Paraliaki has opened a new location on the Bebek waterfront. The name means “where the sea and land meet,” and the restaurant’s menu features refined Mediterranean dishes with a focus on fresh seafood. Signature items include blue tail shrimp, baby calamari, and seafood erişte (a type of Turkish noodle).

  • Address: Bebek, Cevdet Pasa Cad. No: 58, Besiktas
  • Phone: 0534 811 13 33
  • Instagram: @paraliaki_

Limoré, The Ritz-Carlton

Limoré has opened inside The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul, offering coastal Italian cuisine with Bosphorus views. The menu is a collaboration between Lombardy-native Executive Chef Andrea Cetani and sommelier Irene De Feo. The kitchen operates with a zero-waste philosophy and highlights dishes like Limoré Linguini, a family-recipe lasagna, and Branzino Alla Mugnaia. The restaurant uses fresh greens from its own garden and sources ingredients from local producers.

  • Address: Suzer Plaza, Asker Ocagi Cad. No:6 Elmadag / Sisli
  • Phone: 0212 334 44 28
  • Instagram: @limoreistanbul

Pantheon, Kurucesme

Pantheon in Kurucesme draws its name from the ancient Roman temple. The venue’s design combines traditional and modern elements, featuring special NFT video installations projected onto its dome. The Mediterranean-inspired menu is curated by Chef Emir Kaan, known for his work at Efendy and Scorpios. The restaurant transitions into a nightlife spot with DJ performances, Dinner Theater events, and jazz music. A dress code is in effect.

  • Address: Kurucesme, Kirbac Sok. No:13, Besiktas
  • Phone: 0533 257 19 28
  • Instagram: @pantheonistanbul

Cozy, Etiler

Cozy is located in a renovated 40-year-old villa in Etiler. The interior, designed by Rezzan Benardete Interiors, features patterned marble floors, wood textures, a custom ceramic bar, and a mix of vintage and modern furniture. The operation is managed by Emrah Gencer, and the kitchen is led by Chef Huseyin Kilic, who focuses on an elevated take on “comfort food.” The bar, under the direction of Gorkem Arda, becomes a central point later in the evening.

  • Address: Etiler, Dilhayat Sok. No:15 D:1, Besiktas
  • Phone: 0530 289 82 93
  • Instagram: @cozy.istanbul

Mezkla, Etiler

Mezkla, whose name means “mixture” in Spanish, combines Turkish and Mexican cuisines in Etiler. The restaurant aims to blend gastronomy, art, and music. The interior features handcrafted furniture that merges traditional and modern designs. The chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create dishes with contemporary techniques. The venue also hosts performances by international artists and curated music events.

  • Address: Akat Mah. Zeytinoglu Cad. Yesim Sok. No:7, Besiktas
  • Phone: 0549 641 24 07
  • Instagram: @mezkla.istanbul

Assouline Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bosphorus

Assouline Turkiye, in partnership with the Four Seasons Hotel Bosphorus, has opened the Assouline Lounge. Overseen by Irem Kinay, the lounge combines design, culture, and gastronomy with views of the Bosphorus. The menu and cocktails are inspired by a selection of Assouline’s books. Dishes include a fish sandwich inspired by the “Bosphorus Private” book and a spicy sea bass inspired by “Turquoise Coast,” all prepared by the hotel’s chefs.

  • Address: Ciragan Cad. No:28 Besiktas
  • Phone: 0212 381 40 00
  • Instagram: @fsbosphorus

Cantinery, Istinye Park

Founded by Cem Mirap, Cantinery has opened its third branch in Istinye Park, following locations at Zorlu Center and Emaar Square Mall. The brasserie concept is inspired by modern establishments in America and Europe. The Mediterranean-European menu includes breakfast items, fresh pastas, stone-oven pizzas, and seasonal dishes. Signature items include pumpkin hummus, kale salad, and bistecca. The chef’s recommendation is the saffron risotto.

  • Address: Pinar, Katar Cad. No:11, Sariyer
  • Phone: 0536 550 84 40
  • Instagram: @cantinery

Kaicy, Tarabya

Gamze Cizreli has opened Kaicy in Tarabya, a restaurant focused on Levantine cuisine, culture, and art. The name is inspired by a Roman mosaic Cizreli saw at the Antakya Archaeology Museum. The menu aims to provide a modern interpretation of dishes from a region spanning Antakya to Beirut and Jerusalem. The kitchen is managed by Chef Aziz Dogrucu and mentor Murat Aslan. Featured dishes include a modern take on biberli ekmek (peppered bread) and salmon marinated in Arak.

  • Address: Yenikoy Cad. No: 3 Tarabya
  • Phone: 0549 824 87 00
  • Instagram: @kaicyistanbul

Herise Istanbul, Sariyer

Asude and Bahadir Bogatir started Herise Istanbul in 2020 in Kadikoy Kiziltoprak and have now moved to a larger space in Resitpasa. The restaurant strictly uses seasonal products and prepares food based on reservations to minimize waste. The menu is a tasting format with eight savory courses and four desserts, highlighting Anatolian traditions. The signature dish is keskek, an Anatolian ceremonial dish from which the restaurant takes its name.

  • Address: Resitpasa Mah. Kongre Cad. No: 15/A, Sariyer
  • Phone: 0533 607 42 42
  • Instagram: @heriseistanbul

House of 96, Sariyer

House of 96 in Resitpasa is a concept store and cafe that combines home decor with a dining space, including a newly opened garden section. The menu features a mix of traditional and modern dishes, from simit sandwiches for breakfast to regional dishes and international options for lunch. The cafe also serves a variety of salads and coffees. The venue is available for private events and plans to introduce evening service soon. It is closed on Tuesdays.

  • Address: Resitpasa Mah. Emirgan Sok. Kardesler Apt. Blok No:16/1A Sariyer
  • Phone: 0212 277 00 66
  • Instagram: @houseof.96

Tere, Beyoglu

A new ocakbasi (fireside grill) restaurant named Tere has opened in the former location of Topaz. A project by Gulin-Yucel Ozalp and Gorkem Girav, the restaurant focuses on traditional grill culture. The name comes from the Turkish word for cress, a common garnish. The kitchen is run by brothers and master grill chefs Omer and Remzi Sayin. Mezzes are prepared by Hatay-native chef Gokce Eker. Key dishes include scallops, kusleme (lamb loin), and Adana Kebab. A vegan kebab option is also available.

  • Address: Gumussuyu, Omer Avni Mahallesi, Inonu Cad. No:50, Beyoglu
    • Phone: 0212 249 10 01
  • Instagram: @tereistanbul

Hiema, Sariyer

Hiema Kitchen & Bar is a new establishment in Sariyer, founded by Ilyas Gungor and Anil Kumur, who are known for ventures like Steakroom and Ali Haydar Usta Kebap. The kitchen is led by Chef Burak Findik. The menu is international, offering a wide range of dishes from sushi and pasta to salmon. The decor is modern, with soft colors creating a spacious ambiance.

  • Address: Fatih Sultan Mehmet, Ataturk Cad. No:1, Armutlu, Sariyer
  • Instagram: @hiema.ist

Salazar Istanbul, Etiler

Salazar Istanbul is a new venue in Etiler with a large, plant-filled space and a prominent bar area. The menu offers a mix of international and Turkish cuisine, serving everything from breakfast to dinner. The restaurant also has a selection of signature and classic cocktails, positioning itself as a destination for after-work gatherings.

  • Address: Etiler, Tepecik Yolu No:24, Sariyer
  • Instagram: @salazaristanbul

Ioki Nau, Karakoy

Ioki Nau, which specializes in Nikkei cuisine, has opened its second Istanbul branch at the JW Marriott Hotel in Karakoy, following its initial opening in Yenikoy. The concept began after Chef Okitasan introduced the cuisine at Kurochan by Ioki and Ioki on the Beach at the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum. The menu adapts JapanesePeruvian flavors to the Turkish palate using local ingredients.

  • Address: Karamustafa Pasa, Kemankes Cad. No:49/1, JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus Zemin Kat, Beyoglu
  • Instagram: @ioki.nau

Pixi, Etiler

Pixi Istanbul, a project by Cem Yildirim and Andim Korkut, has opened in Etiler. The venue’s architecture was designed by the UK-based Belenko Design Studio and features a full wall dedicated to video mapping and a unique cloud-like lighting installation on the ceiling. The menu, created by Greek chef Athinagoras Kostakos, focuses on Mediterranean flavors.

  • Address: Nispetiye Cad. Seheryildizi Sok. No:3, Etiler
  • Instagram: @pixi.ist

Hundred, Kurucesme

100 | Hundred Istanbul is located in a historic stone building on the Kurucesme shoreline. The venue has a capacity for 100 guests and offers a seasonal menu of world cuisine on its upper floor. The lower floor operates as a speakeasy-style nightclub with a selective entry policy and a no-photo/video rule.

  • Address: Kurucesme, Muallim Naci Cad. No: 93/1, Besiktas
  • Instagram: @hundredistanbul

Sanasaryan Han, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Sirkeci

The historic Sanasaryan Han, built in 1895, has reopened as Sanasaryan Han, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Sirkeci after extensive restoration. The hotel includes Sini Restaurant, which focuses on traditional Turkish cuisine and accepts non-hotel guests, and The Library Bar. The library space hosts events like tea tastings, poetry readings, and art talks.

  • Address: Hobyar Mah. Mimar Kemalettin Cad. No:10, Fatih, Sirkeci
  • Phone: 0212 402 52 00
  • Instagram: @sanasaryanhan

The Barn at Grandma’s Wonderland, Silivri

Located outside the city center in Silivri, The Barn at Grandma’s Wonderland has reopened with Chef Bugra Ozdemir returning to lead the kitchen. The restaurant operates on a farm-to-table and zero-waste model. Vegetables and fruits are grown on-site from heirloom seeds, while meat, dairy, and seafood are sourced locally from the Thrace region and Silivri. The menu changes seasonally based on the farm’s harvest.

  • Address: Gazitepe Mah. Akoren Cad. Ciftlik Evleri No:114, Oren, Silivri
  • Instagram: @grandmaswonderland

Oliva Istanbul, Sariyer

Sezgin Yuce, a restaurant manager with 25 years of experience, has opened Oliva Istanbul in Sariyer. The restaurant offers a wide range of Italian dishes, from Sicilian-style pizzas to Northern Italian pastas, using recipes Yuce collected during his travels in Italy. Signature dishes include a cauliflower salad with almonds, a truffle potato dish, and a folded pizza from a Northern Italian recipe.

  • Address: Fatih Sultan Mehmet, Ataturk Cad. No:1/1, Sariyer
  • Phone: 0540 337 34 34
  • Instagram: @oliva.istanbul
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