20 Best Luxury Restaurants In Istanbul That You Should Not Miss

With its crowded streets, delectable cuisine, and fascinating culture, Istanbul is one of the world's most distinctive and dynamic cities.

Some of the top restaurants in the world may be found in this dynamic metropolis. 

Nothing compares to a nice dinner in a luxurious setting to finish your fantastic day in Istanbul! When it comes to luxury experiences and restaurants with gorgeous views, this city has a lot to give!

There are many unique locations in Istanbul where you can have an exceptional fine dining experience. Here, we have compiled a list of some of the most upscale restaurants, including those that allow you to cruise on the Bosphorus before or after your meal. Below are some examples of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul that will help you make the most of your vacation.

1. Zuma – Istinyepark

Address: İstinye, İstinye Mahallesi Bayır Çıkmazı, park No:461, 34460 Sarıyer, Turkey

We offer the ideal location if you seek a glam meal in one of Istanbul's most exclusive and upscale surroundings. In this luxurious restaurant, which opened for business in 2016, you will be treated like a VIP while enjoying cuisine worldwide. Zuma is undoubtedly the most luxurious restaurant in Istanbul for fine dining if you want a fantastic sushi meal because this location is well-known for its Japanese cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table in advance, and be aware that you must call them, as online reservations are impossible.

2. Villa Bosphorus – Beylerbeyi

Address: Beylerbeyi, Beylerbeyi İskele Cd. 18 A D:18 A, 34676 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey

Istanbul's role as a crossroads city between two continents is one of its most significant characteristics. Would you like to enjoy fine cuisine while enjoying the sounds of the ocean lapping at the shore and looking across the stunning Bosphorus Bridge connecting the two continents? The distinctive seafood meals served at Villa Bosphorus elevate exquisite dining to a new level. They have a fantastic menu. They also offer a fantastic breakfast for those looking for a high-end, luxurious breakfast. 

3. Vogue

Address: Vişnezade Süleyman Seba Caddesi No:134 A Blok Bjk Plaza, Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey

Check out this restaurant if you are searching for a fine dining experience in Istanbul. One of the best restaurants in Turkey, Vogue Restaurant has been serving up the unique flavors of international cuisine since 1997 while providing guests with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. A fantastic meal is prepared and brought to your table when the delectable food and the great atmosphere of the Vogue Restaurant are combined. Furthermore, watching Istanbul through Vogue's large windows while relaxing in its cozy, refined, and welcoming atmosphere makes your day enjoyable. 

4. Chilai

Address: Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd., 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey

One of the top restaurants in Istanbul is this one. On the Bebek Coast, at Chilai, guests can enjoy an abundant fine dining experience right by the Bosphorus. The tables are set up on a deck that looks out over the water, giving the impression that you are dining on the water. Numerous gourmet food options are available, as well as DJ performances. Additionally, breakfast is offered here. On weekends, many residents and visitors eat breakfast before taking a stroll along the Bosphorus.

5. Lacivert Restaurant (Navy Blue Restaurant)

Address: Anadolu Hisarı, Körfez Cd. 57/A, 34410 Beykoz/İstanbul, Turkey

It is best to pick a restaurant with an excellent view for a formal meal. The décor of the Navy Blue (Lacivert) Restaurant is modern. This location may be ideal for a romantic dinner due to its distinctive atmosphere and dim lighting. Because of its proximity to the water, you can take in the Bosphorus view and hear the waves. This Restaurant is One of Istanbul's most opulent and well-known seafood restaurants.

As one of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul, Lacivert requires reservations if you want to eat there. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a table with a stunning view in this way. You can be sure that dining at this restaurant will be a magnificent experience you will never forget.

6. Spago Istanbul

Address: Harbiye, Mim Kemal Öke Cd. No:35, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey

Spago Istanbul must be included on any list of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul. The restaurant is owned by the renowned chef Wolfgang Puck, who has two Michelin stars and is known as one of the "farm-to-table" trend's founders. For 24 years, Puck has also organized official events for the Oscar award ceremonies. Spago Istanbul has a stunning view on the terrace level of the St. Regis Istanbul Hotel. Spago's menu, inspired by American, Asian, and Italian cuisines, takes customers on a culinary adventure. The dish "Smoked Salmon Pizza" is well-known and highly regarded.

With a menu that is constantly changing following the freshest seasonal local ingredients, Spago provides a distinctive fine dining experience. Even though it is one of Istanbul's priciest restaurants, it will undoubtedly provide you with a beautiful memory! 

7. Maiden's Tower Restaurant 

Address: Salacak, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey

The Maiden's Tower is undeniably one of the most romantic locations and one of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul. The Maiden's Tower, the center of several myths and legends, is a genuine place to fall in love. It will be a wonderful experience to meet here as a couple. There are many upscale restaurants in Istanbul, but you will need a different experience. You will enjoy beautiful meals while perched on a tower amid the ocean. Additionally, you can view the ocean from the Maiden's Tower. While enjoying delicious cuisine with your loved ones, you will feel like flying with the birds over the Bosphorus Sea. Because of this, Maiden's Tower is a unique fine dining location in Istanbul.

Foods are available that take inspiration from other cuisines, and seafood is also particularly well-liked in this restaurant. Seafood soup is one of the most widely consumed foods. The exquisite beef dishes on the menu are highly recommended. If you want to eat here, make sure to make a reservation. 

8. Kasibeyaz Bosphorus

Address: Yeniköy, Köybaşı Cd. No:10, 34464 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey

In Istanbul Yeniköy, Kasibeyaz Bosphorus is an Haute restaurant known for its mouthwatering cuisine and stunning architecture. It also boasts a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus. You can see the whole length of the Bosphorus from the expansive Istanbul perspective. The best luxury restaurants in Istanbul typically offer a view of the Bosphorus, and this one undoubtedly has the greatest. By blending with the natural splendor of the Bosphorus, Kasibeyaz's traditional quality and flavor have formed wonderful harmony.

You may select this elegant restaurant for your special brunches and evenings. The restaurant's most well-known dishes are "Boğaz Tava" (Bosphorus Special) and "Sadrazam Kebabı" (Grand Vizier Kebab). One of the most well-liked spots in Istanbul for couples seeking a memorable fine dining experience is Kasibeyaz Bosphorus. 

9. Sunset Grill & Bar

Address: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi Ulus Park, Yol Sokağı No:2, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey

On a patio with views of the Bosphorus, the Sunset Grill & Bar is a terrific location to chow down on Japanese and Mediterranean food. One of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul for couples is this one. Some of the finest and rarest wines in the world, including Château Latour and Sassicaia, may be found in the cellar. A range of world cuisines is available on the menu at Sunset Grill & Bar, along with several healthful alternatives. We highly recommend sushi and the fusion of Japanese food! This could be one of the most incredible places in Istanbul to try escargot if you are ready to take a chance. As a result of the herby, garlicky butter's intense flavor, eating snails becomes less terrifying and much more enjoyable than anticipated.

After 8 o'clock, Sunset Grill & Bar is often at its busiest; lunchtime is the quietest time to go there. If you want to visit on a weekend evening, you should make reservations in advance. 

10. Mikla (1 Michelin-starred)

Address: Asmalı Mescit, The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:15, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

The Marmara Pera Hotel's award-winning Mikla restaurant in Istanbul offers one-of-a-kind cuisine. It is one of the most famous restaurants in Istanbul. It is located on the hotel's roof deck, with a pool and panoramic city views.  Even if the menu has some minor adjustments based on what is in season, the Cheese & Honey meal for two will blow you away. A brilliant culinary idea would be to combine hot mustard with the sweetness of blossom honey and prunes, then add crunchy walnuts and salty cheese. For a thrilling, risk-taking culinary experience, pair it with a wine from the area's wineries. Mikla follows a vegan diet as well. Chef-owner Mehmet Gürs provides a unique vegan set menu that will satisfy your craving if you are a vegan. You will drool long after eating, especially the quince dessert with chile and tart apples. 

11. Nusr-Et Steakhouse

Address: Bebek Mahallesi, No: 244, Bebek Ykş, No: 1,34342 Beşiktaş, istanbul, Turkey

The famous Salt Bae calls this place home, as meat fans will already know. Nusr-Et, a steakhouse that needs no description, is among the top steakhouses in Istanbul for satisfying your meat craving. The steaks are of the highest quality and available in various sizes and cuts. There is a reason the New York strip is a classic. It is juicy and tasty with the ideal quantity of fat.

The meat on the tomahawk is juicy and delicious. It complements the Nusr-et salad perfectly. The sushi dish is lovely, but the lokum is as soft as a Turkish delight. Make sure you get French fries because they come with what seems like an endless amount of sauces. If you have not already, you could fall in love with truffle mayo, honey & mustard! 

12. Ulus 29

Address: Ahmet Adnan Saygun Cd. No:71/1, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey

A fashionable restaurant called Ulus 29 emphasizes original interpretations of ethnic cuisine. Finding something you like is simply because of the varied choices. If you enjoy octopus, select an octopus meal prepared in Galicia or an octopus risotto prepared in Portugal. However, if you adore Asian cuisine, you could go crazy for the large sashimi dish or the crispy duck spring rolls.

It would help if you tried some meals. The handmade nachos with guacamole were lusciously creamy and touched all the savory tastes. What you have been missing out on your entire life is popcorn shrimp with sweet and spicy aioli. Ulus 29 is one of the most excellent options if you want to eat somewhere unique in Istanbul. 

13. Asistane Restaurant

Address: Dervişali, Kariye Cami Sk. No:6, 34240 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Ottoman food is served in the upscale restaurant Assistance. You will have a feast fit for a king or, at the very least, a sultan because the Ottoman recipes come from the Topkapi Palace and Edirne Palace kitchens. You could get carried away with the appetizers, which include choices like almond soup (badam çorba). Perhaps you might try the flavorful Hums Lokması, a purée of chickpeas with raisins, cinnamon, and pine nuts. The mixture of walnuts, sea bass, and saffron makes the Levrek Biryan an incredible discovery. One of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul for a memorable night is Asitane, especially if you eat outside on the terrace. Therefore, to avoid frustration, you should make reservations.  

14. Galvin Restaurant 

Address: Teşvikiye, Maçka Plas, Maçka Cd. No:33/B, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Turkey

One of Nişantaş's newest locations, Galvin, is situated in the venerable Maçka Palas. The restaurant has a variety of sparkling ceramics and sculptures, as well as superb Italian food in its most exquisite form. Additionally, the area is quite distinctive thanks to interior features like the décor marble, diamond seats, unique paneling embellishments, and Italian columns. Not to mention the extensive cuisine cooked by Galvin using only Italian products!

15. Nicole Restaurant (1 Michelin-starred)

Address: Tomtom, Tomtom Kaptan Sk. No:18, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

The atmosphere in Taksim's upscale restaurant is elegant and superior. Chefs with training from Michelin-starred restaurants prepare organic foods and serve them to customers as part of a tasting menu. Savor these lovely flavors while taking in the beauty of the Prince's Islands. 

16. Chalet

Address: Vişnezade Mh, Acısu Sokaği No:19, 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey

A Swiss Chalet-style restaurant in Swissotel is a short distance from one of Istanbul's most magnificent palaces, the Dolmabahçe Palace. The restaurant offers delicious treats with a Swiss influence, like späetzle and rösti potatoes, as well as decadent chocolate desserts. There are three options for a raclette dish and two cheese fondues. For dessert, you may choose a decadent chocolate fondue and a light raspberry Swiss roll. In any case, Chalet is one of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul and the most fantastic choice for a memorable evening. 

17. Tuğra Restaurant

Address: Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel, Ciragan Caddesi 32, Çiragan Cd, 34349 Besiktas/İstanbul, Turkey

In Istanbul, Tuğra is the restaurant where you may feel the most like a sultan. It is housed in one of the last palaces of the Ottoman Empire. It offers authentically prepared Ottoman dishes. You also enjoy a magnificent view of the Bosphorus Strait.  Nothing compares to a pomegranate sorbet served after an organic chicken Topkapi filled with rice, nuts, and spices. Tuğra is one of the best luxury restaurants in Istanbul for special occasions. 

18. Aheste Restaurant

Address: Asmalı Mescit, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:107 D:F, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Aheste is a nice restaurant with contemporary furnishings. Both vegans and omnivorous can order off the tasting menus. The kepse pilaf and chicken confit could take your breath away. The cured bonito on toast with tomato sauce will satisfy your thirst for something savory. The vegetarian alternatives are equally as good. The green salad would tempt anyone with cheese and pear. Still, the Jerusalem artichoke and celeriac rolls are a delicate, nutty fantasy. If you have the chance to eat the crispy pumpkin with tahini & clotted cream as a dessert, you may not wish to leave. 

19. Mürver Restaurant

Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Kemankes Kara Mustafa Pasa Mah, Kemankeş Cd. No: 57-59, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Nearly every item on the menu at the Mürver Restaurant at the Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus is cooked over an open flame, including vegetables, calamari, and steaks. The restaurant's well-known octopus dish is a delectable appetizer, mainly when the mouthwatering Thracian lamb follows it. You can complement your meal with one or two specialty cocktails. Although reservations are not often necessary, be ready to scuffle with crowds in the evenings. Although the Mürver Restaurant is usually busiest around 8 p.m., it is worthwhile to sit down for a gorgeous sunset view of the peninsula. 

20. Giritli Restaurant

Address: Cankurtaran, Keresteci Hakkı Sk. No: 8, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Giritli Restaurant provides exquisite indoor or outdoor dining options while serving Cretan cuisine. Cold mezze dishes are a shared appetizer, followed by a treat like grilled octopus or the rice-based seafood dish denizci pilavı. Try the fried veggies with köpoğlu (garlic yogurt) as a cooling side.

The Giritli Restaurant serves an a-la-carte menu throughout the week and a fixed-price menu on the weekends. Although the offerings on both menus vary depending on the season, there is always a supply of mouthwatering seafood and meat dishes. After dinner, visit the nearby Blue Mosque, famed for its blue dome and only 700 meters away, to add a romantic touch to the evening. 

Bottom Line

Great Istanbul restaurants frequently specialize in Anatolian food with both Eastern and Western inspirations. The city's diversified culinary scene does, however, include Aegean, Mediterranean, and international cuisine. Even though meat and fish are widely consumed, vegans have several options. Other elegant dining options include a historic palace or a rooftop patio with views of the Bosphorus.

Istanbul offers several gastronomic options; however, The 20 best luxury restaurants in Istanbul are those we have listed for you, but there are a ton more amazing diners in this unique city just waiting to be found.