| Restaurant | Distinction | Cuisine | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| TURK Fatih Tutak | 2 stars, Green Star | Modern Turkish | Bomonti, Şişli |
| Neolokal | 1 star, Green Star | Modern Anatolian | Galata (SALT Galata) |
| Mikla | 1 star | Modern Anatolian | Beyoğlu (rooftop of the Marmara Pera hotel) |
| Nicole | 1 star | Turkish and Middle Eastern fusion | Beyoğlu |
| Araka | 1 star | Seasonal vegetables and herbs | Yeniköy, Sarıyer |
| Arkestra | 1 star | French-Asian fusion | Etiler, Beşiktaş |
| Sankai by Nagaya | 1 star | Japanese and European fusion | Bebek, Beşiktaş |
| Araf | 1 star (new in 2026) | Counter around an open fire | Istanbul |
| Casa Lavanda | 1 star, Green Star | Not specified | Şile, about 40 km away |
Which table to choose
For the big occasion: TURK Fatih Tutak
It is Istanbul's only two-star table. Book very early: one guide says a Saturday night can mean waiting about three months.
For the view: Mikla
The restaurant occupies the roof of the Marmara Pera hotel, in Beyoğlu. Ask for a table by the windows when you book.
For the country's cuisine: Neolokal
Neolokal, in Galata, received the MICHELIN Sommelier Award 2026 (Ersin Topkara). Combine it with a walk through Galata and Karaköy.
For an original meal: Araf
The guide describes a small counter restaurant built around an open fire, run by Kenan and Pınar Korgan Çetinkaya.
Booking tips
- Book as soon as you know your dates, especially for the evening.
- Lunch is often easier to get, and sometimes cheaper.
- Mention allergies and diets (vegetarian, halal) when booking.
- Ask about the dress code and the tasting-menu price.
- Sankai by Nagaya offers a free transfer according to one guide: confirm it.
Going further
For less expensive tables of good quality, read Ottoman cuisine restaurants and what to eat in Istanbul. For a romantic dinner, see Istanbul for couples.
