Great choice — Türkiye’s restaurant scene is incredibly rich, blending centuries of Ottoman, Anatolian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern flavors. Whether you’re after fine dining, casual meze spots, or traditional kebab houses, there’s something for every taste. Here’s a breakdown to get you started:
Famous & Recommended Restaurants in Türkiye
In Istanbul
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Nusr-Et Steakhouse
World-famous for its premium steaks and celebrity chef Salt Bae. -
Mikla
Fine dining with a modern Turkish-Scandinavian fusion and one of the best rooftop views of Istanbul. -
Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi
One of Istanbul’s oldest and most famous meatball restaurants — simple, classic, and iconic. -
Pandeli Restaurant
Historic Ottoman cuisine inside the Spice Bazaar, loved for its rich, traditional flavors. -
Neolokal
Modern takes on Anatolian recipes in an elegant setting.
In Ankara
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Trilye Restaurant
One of Türkiye’s best seafood restaurants, popular for fresh fish and creative appetizers. -
Boğaziçi Lokantası
A classic, old-school Turkish eatery famous for home-style dishes (called ev yemekleri).
In Antalya
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7 Mehmet
One of the city’s most famous restaurants for seafood and Turkish regional cuisine, with great sea views. -
Seraser Fine Dining
Elegant and romantic Mediterranean dining in Antalya’s old town.
In Bodrum
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Orfoz Restaurant
Celebrated for its seafood platters and fresh Aegean dishes. -
Kısmet Lokantası
Traditional Turkish home cooking with local flavors.
In Izmir
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Deniz Restaurant
A must-visit seafood restaurant known for its Aegean meze, fresh fish, and sea views. -
Topçu’nun Yeri
Famous for Izmir köfte (meatballs) and other classic Turkish dishes.
Types of Restaurants You’ll Find in Türkiye
- Kebapçı — Specializing in kebabs (Adana, Urfa, shish kebab)
- Balıkçı — Seafood restaurants, often with dozens of cold and hot meze.
- Meze Bars (Meyhane) — Traditional places for small plates, raki (anise liquor), and live music.
- Ev Yemekleri Lokantası — Home-style dishes and stews, cafeteria-style.
- Modern Fusion & Fine Dining — Combining traditional Turkish flavors with international techniques.