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Best Turkish Restaurants in Turkey

Best Turkish Restaurants in Turkey

Curated guide featuring 8 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Home › Where to Eat › Best Turkish Restaurants in Turkey

Turkey's culinary landscape is where centuries of tradition meet passionate innovation, creating a dining scene that's both deeply rooted and refreshingly dynamic. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the coastal towns along the Mediterranean, Turkish restaurants here don't just serve food – they tell stories through every perfectly spiced dish, every warm loaf of fresh bread, and every glass of Turkish tea shared among friends. The commitment to authentic flavors runs deep, with family recipes passed down through generations and chefs who source ingredients from local markets at dawn, ensuring that each meal captures the true essence of Anatolian cuisine.

This guide brings together 10 exceptional Turkish restaurants that have earned stellar reputations among both locals and travelers, each boasting ratings of 4.5 stars or higher from thousands of satisfied diners. You'll discover everything from intimate Ottoman-inspired cafes where the aroma of Turkish coffee mingles with centuries-old architectural details, to busy garden restaurants where mezze plates overflow with seasonal delights. Whether you're craving perfectly grilled kebabs, delicate baklava that melts on your tongue, or want to experience the art of traditional Turkish hospitality, these carefully selected spots represent the very best of Turkey's remarkable dining heritage.

Featured Restaurants

Garden 1897 Restaurant
$$

Garden 1897 Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.9
(16,193 reviews)

located within the historic Garden House Hotel in Istanbul's atmospheric Sultanahmet district, Garden 1897 Restaurant has earned an exceptional reputation with nearly perfect ratings from over 16,000 diners who rave about its diverse culinary offerings and charming ambiance. The restaurant's popularity stems from its ability to deliver consistently excellent food across various cuisines while providing an elegant dining experience in one of the city's most culturally rich neighborhoods. Book ahead given its stellar reputation, and consider dining during golden hour to fully appreciate the historic setting near the iconic Küçük Ayasofya.

Inside of Garden House Hotel, Küçük Ayasofya, Şht. Mehmet Paşa Sk. No5, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Mivan Restaurant & Cafe
$$

Mivan Restaurant & Cafe

★★★★☆
4.9
(8,201 reviews)

This beloved Istanbul cafe has won over thousands of visitors with its exceptional 4.9-star rating, offering a warm neighborhood atmosphere perfect for experiencing authentic Turkish cafe culture. Located in the historic Fatih district near the famous Pierre Loti area, travelers consistently praise the quality and service that keeps this local gem buzzing with both residents and tourists. Arrive early to snag a good seat and soak in the genuine Istanbul vibe that has earned this spot such devoted fans.

Emin Sinan, Piyer Loti Cd. No:34, 34130 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
(0212) 517 99 29
Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant
$$

Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.8
(5,098 reviews)

Tucked away in historic Fatih near the famous Cağaloğlu Hamam, Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant delivers an authentic Istanbul dining experience that has earned nearly 5,100 glowing reviews. Travelers consistently praise this gem for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that showcases the best of Turkish hospitality at reasonable prices. Arrive early during peak tourist season to snag a good table and soak in the old-world charm that makes this neighborhood spot so beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Alemdar, Cağaloğlu Hamamı Sk. No:17 D:J, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
(0212) 514 55 00
Istanbul Anatolian Cuisine
$$

Istanbul Anatolian Cuisine

★★★★☆
4.9
(3,895 reviews)

located in the historic Küçük Ayasofya neighborhood, Istanbul Anatolian Cuisine has earned an impressive 4.9-star rating from nearly 4,000 diners who rave about its authentic Turkish flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant's stellar reputation suggests consistently excellent food and service that keeps both locals and tourists coming back. Book ahead or arrive early, as a place this beloved in such a touristy area tends to fill up quickly, especially during dinner hours.

Küçük Ayasofya, Cami Sk. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Last Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant
$$

Last Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.8
(3,713 reviews)

Tucked away in historic Fatih, Last Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant offers an authentic Turkish dining experience that has earned rave reviews from nearly 4,000 visitors who praise its welcoming atmosphere and traditional flavors. This beloved local gem consistently delivers the kind of genuine hospitality and quality food that keeps both tourists and locals coming back. Arrive early during peak dining hours to secure a table at this popular spot that perfectly captures the essence of Istanbul's rich culinary heritage.

Hoca Paşa, Darüssade Sk. No 10, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Munhanie Restaurant
$$

Munhanie Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.9
(2,945 reviews)

located in Istanbul's historic Fatih district near the iconic Küçük Ayasofya, Munhanie Restaurant has earned a stellar reputation among locals and travelers alike with its diverse menu and welcoming atmosphere. With nearly 3,000 glowing reviews and a 4.9-star rating, this beloved spot clearly delivers exceptional food and service that keeps guests coming back. Given its popularity and prime location in the heart of old Istanbul, try to arrive early or make a reservation to secure your table at this crowd favorite.

Küçük Ayasofya, Kadırga Limanı Cd. No:231, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Turkish Cuisine
$$

Turkish Cuisine

★★★★☆
4.8
(2,826 reviews)

This highly-rated Turkish restaurant in the historic Fatih district has won over nearly 3,000 diners with its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere, earning an impressive 4.8-star rating that speaks to consistently excellent food and service. Located near the charming Küçük Ayasofya area, it offers travelers a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine in one of Istanbul's most atmospheric neighborhoods. With such outstanding reviews, expect a busy spot, so consider making a reservation or arriving early to secure a table at this local favorite.

Küçük Ayasofya, Kadırga Limanı Cd. 96/a, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Garden Mezze
$$

Garden Mezze

★★★★☆
4.8
(2,586 reviews)

Tucked away in historic Fatih, Garden Mezze has earned a stellar reputation with nearly 2,600 glowing reviews for its welcoming bar atmosphere and authentic Turkish mezze experience. Travelers consistently praise this local gem for its relaxed setting where you can sample traditional small plates while soaking in the neighborhood's Ottoman-era charm. Arrive early evening to snag a good spot and come hungry - the mezze tradition encourages sharing multiple dishes for the full experience.

hoca paşa mah nöbethane caddesi, Hoca Paşa, Serdar Sk. No:13, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

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